Getting Rid of Clover When Weed Killers Fail

Clover requires repeat applications of a three-way selective broadleaf herbicide containing two or three of these active ingredients: 2,4-D, dichlorprop, MCPP (mecoprop), dicamba, triclopyr, or clopyralid. Check labels — brands like Trimec list ingredients upfront. Choose a liquid spray; it's more effective than granular weed-and-feed.

Spray when clover is actively growing. Add a squirt of dish soap to help spray adhere. Apply when no rain is expected for 48 hours; don't mow or water for 24 hours after. Expect to miss some plants and have new seeds germinate — follow-up applications are normal. Persistence brings clover to a tolerable level.