Herbicides containing a combination of the active chemical ingredients dicamba, fluroxpyr, and quinclorac are most effective at purging your turf of white clover. However, for small home lawns, organic prevention and control can be very effective methods for killing clover weeds and save you from using harmful pesticides that might damage your lawn.
Choosing fertilizers: slow-release for steady nutrients, organic for eco-friendliness, or specific blends for soil deficiencies or grass types.
The fastest ways to kill weeds and unwanted grass include burning them, pouring boiling water on them, or pulling them out by hand, as these methods work almost instantaneously. For a quick-acting solution that works within a few hours, you can use a commercial-grade herbicide like glyphosate or a DIY vinegar, salt, and dish soap mixture. While effective, be aware that commercial herbicides introduce chemicals into your lawn. The slowest method for killing weeds is to starve them of sunlight and nutrients using mulch or fabric covers.
There are organic herbicide options that will kill grass but not flowers, including white vinegar or a dish soap solution. Commercial selective herbicides can also target grass over other plants, but read the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your garden. Herbicides that kill grass but not flowers usually include ingredients like clethodim and sethoxydim. Otherwise, your best bet will be to weed by hand.
There are a few things you should ask a weed service company before hiring to ensure you’re choosing the best professional for the job:
How often will you apply herbicides?
Do you include any spot treatments or manual weed removal in your pricing?
Do you offer pet-safe and kid-safe herbicides?
What other lawn services can you provide?
Do you offer any kind of guarantee for the work performed?
Are you properly licensed and fully insured?
Do you have any customer references I could speak with?
The Covelo, CA homeowners’ guide to weed maintenance services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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