Why is it there and how to get it under control?
When you invest time, money and emotion into something you want to see results.
So when your lawn starts sprouting a few clover you quickly pluck them out so it's pristine again...right??
Wrong! A little clover usually leads to a lot! And it's telling you something about your soil.
Why does it grow?
There are a number of reasons clover could be taking over your lawn.
- Your soil is deficient in nutrients, particularly nitrogen. Clover is a legume. Legumes have nitrogen-fixing bacteria in their root structures which means they naturally restore nitrogen to soil. This also means that it will naturally occur if nitrogen is lacking.
- Your grass has been cut too short. Longer-cut grass shades and crowds out other plants, such as clover.
- Your soil is compacted. Clover is able to survive better in compacted soil than turf. This is because it’s roots are longer and it has deeper access to water and nutrients.
- Your grass needs more water. If your grass isn’t getting the right amount of water its growth will be less dense leaving more room for clover to grow and thrive.
Clover in lawn – what is says about your soil
Why is the nitrogen level depleted?
Nitrogen is important to all plant growth. Plants require more nitrogen than any other element.
Your lawn requires a combination of sun, water and nutrient to grow and stay healthy.
The top three (3) elements required are nitrogen, phosphorus and calcium. Of these, nitrogen is the least stable in the soil and requires to be topped up the most often.
Rapid grass growth and excess rainfall can contribute to a decline in nitrogen levels in your soil.
Clover in lawn – how to get rid of it?
The key requirement to control clover in the lawn is to restore nitrogen levels in the soil. There are also some other simple things you can do to keep your lawn clover-free.
- Introduce a higher nitrogen fertiliser to raise the available nitrogen in the soil
- Target clover with a herbicide that is specific for broad leaf legumes.
- Regular mowing – but not too short!
- Ensure you are watering your lawn appropriately, seasonally-adjusted automated irrigation systems are the most sustainable and effective method
- Aerate your soil to ensure your turf has the best possible chance of healthy growth
If you need help with your lawn or garden our team offers weed management through our Garden Care service.
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