10 Best Herbicides for Clover Control That Actually Work

I’ve found that Bonide Chickweed, Clover and Oxalis Killer delivers the fastest results, showing overnight clover elimination across 5,000 square feet. For convenience, Ortho WeedClear Ready-To-Spray connects directly to your hose and treats over 200 weed species. Gordon’s SpeedZone provides professional-grade control with visible results in 48 hours, covering up to 18,000 square feet. These selective herbicides target broadleaf weeds while protecting your grass, with most becoming rainproof within hours of application for reliable performance.

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Notable Insights

• Gordon’s SpeedZone delivers professional-level results within 48 hours and covers up to 18,000 square feet per application.
• Bonide Chickweed, Clover and Oxalis Killer targets over 100 broadleaf weeds with overnight results and rainproof protection.
• Ortho WeedClear offers convenient hose-attached application, treating over 200 weed species across 5,000 square feet coverage area.
• Apply herbicides during active clover growth in spring or early fall when temperatures range between 45°F to 90°F.
• Choose systemic herbicides like triclopyr or 2,4-D that eliminate roots while preserving desirable grass types safely.

Bonide Chickweed, Clover and Oxalis Killer (16 oz Concentrate)

If you’re a homeowner-gardener facing persistent broadleaf weeds that resist typical lawn treatments, Bonide Chickweed, Clover and Oxalis Killer offers industrial-strength control without compromising your grass. This concentrated formula eliminates over 100 stubborn weeds, including clover, dandelions, ground ivy, and wild violet, while protecting your lawn grasses when applied correctly. You’ll see results starting overnight, and the formula becomes rainproof within hours of application. The 16-ounce concentrate covers up to 5,000 square feet, making it cost-effective for larger properties. For peak effectiveness, avoid mowing your lawn one to two days before and after treatment.

Best For: Homeowners with large lawns (up to 5,000 sq ft) who need industrial-strength control of persistent broadleaf weeds like clover, dandelions, and oxalis without damaging their grass.

Pros:

• Eliminates over 100 types of hard-to-control broadleaf weeds while keeping lawn grass safe when used as directed
• Fast-acting formula that begins working overnight and becomes rainproof within hours of application
• Concentrated formula provides excellent coverage value, treating up to 5,000 square feet from just 16 ounces

Cons:

• Requires mixing before application, adding an extra step compared to ready-to-use alternatives
• Must avoid mowing for 1-2 days before and after treatment, which may disrupt lawn maintenance schedules
• At 1 pound weight for liquid concentrate, it may be less convenient to handle than lighter ready-to-spray options

Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray, 32 oz

Homeowners who need an efficient, ready-to-use solution for widespread clover infestations will find Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray particularly effective for their lawn care needs. This 32-ounce concentrate treats up to 5,000 square feet, making it ideal for larger properties with extensive clover problems. You’ll appreciate the combination of active ingredients including 2,4-D, quinclorac, and dicamba, which work together to eliminate over 200 weed species while protecting your established grass. The ready-to-spray formulation connects directly to your garden hose, eliminating mixing requirements and ensuring consistent application across your entire lawn area.

Best For: Homeowners with large lawns up to 5,000 square feet who need a convenient, hose-attached solution to eliminate widespread weed problems including clover, dandelion, and crabgrass without harming established grass.

Pros:

• Ready-to-spray formula connects directly to garden hose for easy application without measuring or mixing
• Kills over 200 weed types with fast-acting results in one application and becomes rainproof in just 1 hour
• Safe for use on major grass types including Bermudagrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Fescues, and Zoysiagrass when used as directed

Cons:

• Not available for purchase in Florida, Guam, Hawaii, or Louisiana due to regulatory restrictions
• Temperature limitations require application between 45°F-90°F, with additional restrictions for Bermudagrass above 85°F
• Contains multiple chemical active ingredients (2,4-D, Quinclorac, Dicamba) that require keeping people and pets off treated areas until dry

Ortho Weed B-gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer for Lawns Concentrate (16 fl. oz.)

Garden enthusiasts who struggle with persistent broadleaf weeds will find Ortho Weed B-gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer an effective solution for targeted lawn treatment. This concentrated formula treats 3,200 square feet with just 16 fluid ounces, making it economical for larger properties. You’ll appreciate that it specifically targets tough weeds like clover, chickweed, oxalis, and creeping Charlie while protecting your grass from damage.

The triclopyr-based formula becomes rainproof within six hours, ensuring weather won’t compromise your application efforts. You must dilute this concentrate using a hose-end sprayer or tank sprayer, as direct application isn’t permitted.

Best For: Homeowners with large lawns who need an economical solution to eliminate persistent broadleaf weeds like clover, chickweed, and oxalis without damaging their grass.

Pros:

• Covers 3,200 square feet with just 16 fl. oz., making it cost-effective for larger properties
• Becomes rainproof within 6 hours, providing reliable protection against weather interference
• Targets tough broadleaf weeds while protecting grass from damage

Cons:

• Requires additional equipment (hose-end sprayer or tank sprayer) since direct application is not permitted
• Temperature restrictions limit application to below 90°F, which may restrict use during hot summer months
• Must be applied only when weeds are actively growing, limiting timing flexibility

Bonide Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer (128 oz Ready-to-Use Spray)

Bonide’s 128-ounce ready-to-use spray delivers powerful clover control for homeowners who need extensive weed management across large lawn areas. This systemic herbicide combines dicamba and triclopyr to eliminate clover, chickweed, oxalis, and over 100 tough weeds down to their roots. You’ll appreciate the convenient ready-to-spray formula that requires no mixing, covering up to 10,000 square feet per pint with fast-acting results that begin overnight. The product becomes rainproof within hours, ensuring reliable performance even with changing weather conditions. For best results, avoid mowing your lawn 1-2 days before or after application to maximize herbicide absorption and effectiveness.

Best For: Homeowners with large lawns who need to eliminate stubborn broadleaf weeds like clover, chickweed, and oxalis without harming their grass.

Pros:

• Ready-to-use formula requires no mixing and covers up to 10,000 square feet per pint
• Systemic action kills weeds down to the roots while being safe for lawn grasses
• Fast-acting results begin overnight and becomes rainproof within hours

Cons:

• Large 8-pound container may be heavy and difficult to maneuver during application
• Requires avoiding lawn mowing for 1-2 days before and after treatment, limiting lawn care flexibility
• Contains dicamba and triclopyr herbicides which require careful handling and may have environmental considerations

Gordon’s SpeedZone Lawn Weed Killer, 20 Ounces, 652400

When you’re battling stubborn clover patches that resist standard treatments, Gordon’s SpeedZone Lawn Weed Killer delivers professional-grade results with remarkable speed and precision. This concentrated formula covers an impressive 14,000 to 18,000 square feet from just 20 ounces, making 20-30 gallons of spray solution when properly mixed. You’ll see visible results on clover, dandelions, and plantain within 48 hours, even in cool weather conditions when other herbicides struggle. The selective formula won’t harm your lawn grasses, and you can reseed treated areas in just two weeks. Mix 2-3 tablespoons per gallon for manual application, applying twice per season maximum during spring or fall for peak effectiveness.

Best For: Homeowners dealing with stubborn weeds like clover, dandelions, and plantain who need fast, professional-grade results without damaging their lawn grass.

Pros:

• Delivers visible results within 48 hours and works effectively even in cool weather conditions
• High concentration provides excellent value with coverage of 14,000-18,000 square feet from just 20 ounces
• Selective herbicide formula won’t harm lawn grasses and allows reseeding in just 2 weeks

Cons:

• Can only be applied twice per season, limiting treatment frequency for persistent weed problems
• Higher price point compared to standard weed killers may not fit all budgets
• Over-application can cause lawn discoloration and packaging issues with leakage have been reported

Whitetail Institute Arrest Max Selective Grass Control Herbicide (1 Pint)

Food plot managers who struggle with persistent grass invasion will find Whitetail Institute Arrest Max Selective Grass Control Herbicide their most reliable solution for maintaining pristine clover stands. This specialized herbicide targets both annual and perennial grasses effectively, utilizing advanced chemistry that outperforms traditional grass control products. You’ll appreciate its selective action, which eliminates unwanted grasses while protecting your valuable clover and alfalfa plantings from damage.

Apply this herbicide during active grass growth periods in spring or summer for best results. The one-pint container provides concentrated control, making it cost-effective for managing multiple food plots throughout the season.

Best For: Food plot managers and deer hunters who need to eliminate grass weeds from clover and alfalfa food plots while preserving their valuable forage plantings.

Pros:

• Advanced selective chemistry effectively controls both annual and perennial grasses without harming clover or alfalfa
• Concentrated formula in 1-pint container provides cost-effective treatment for multiple food plots
• Specifically formulated for deer food plot management with proven compatibility with Whitetail Institute forages

Cons:

• Limited to spring and summer application timing when grasses are actively growing
• Only works on grass species, not broadleaf weeds that may also invade food plots
• Requires careful timing and application to ensure maximum effectiveness on target grasses

3 Way Max Weed Killer, Pet Safe & Low Odor (32 Ounces)

The 3 Way Max Weed Killer offers an ideal solution for homeowners who prioritize both effective clover control and family safety. This enhanced formula eliminates over 50 types of broadleaf weeds, including stubborn clover, dandelions, and poison ivy, while remaining completely safe around your pets. You’ll appreciate the broader coverage that requires less product per application, making your lawn care routine more efficient and cost-effective.

The 32-ounce size provides convenient handling for most residential yards, and the low-odor formula guarantees comfortable mixing and application. You can confidently use this herbicide on all labeled grass types, whether you’re maintaining a home lawn or managing larger areas like sod farms.

Best For: Homeowners with pets who need to eliminate clover and other broadleaf weeds from their lawn while prioritizing family and pet safety.

Pros:

• Eliminates over 50 types of broadleaf weeds including clover, dandelions, and poison ivy with an enhanced formula that requires less product
• Pet-safe formulation with low odor makes it safe and comfortable to use around family and pets
• Safe for all labeled grass types and provides broader coverage than traditional weed killers

Cons:

• 32-ounce size may not be sufficient for larger yards or extensive weed problems
• Requires careful review of product label and directions before use for proper application
• Limited to broadleaf weeds only and won’t control grassy weeds or other weed types

Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D WEED KILLER, 32oz – Quart

Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D Weed Killer stands out as an exceptional choice for property owners managing extensive areas plagued by persistent clover infestations. You’ll appreciate its concentrated formula, which delivers outstanding coverage at just 1 to 1.5 ounces per gallon, making it incredibly cost-effective for large properties. The dimethylamine salt of 2,4-D targets broadleaf weeds like clover while preserving your grass, ensuring selective control that maintains lawn aesthetics. You can expect visible results within 48 hours, though multiple applications typically provide ideal effectiveness against stubborn clover patches. This professional-grade herbicide works exceptionally well across turf, pastures, and rangeland applications.

Best For: Property owners with large areas who need an economical, concentrated herbicide to control persistent broadleaf weeds like clover, dandelions, and chickweed while preserving grass.

Pros:

• Highly economical with excellent coverage – just 1-1.5 oz per gallon treats large areas cost-effectively
• Fast-acting selective herbicide that shows visible results within 48 hours while preserving grass
• Versatile application suitable for turf, pastures, rangeland, and around fences with professional-grade effectiveness

Cons:

• Requires dilution and mixing, making it less convenient than ready-to-use herbicide products
• Not pet-safe during application – animals must be kept away until the treated area is completely dry
• May require 3-4 multiple applications for optimal results against stubborn weeds, and effectiveness can decrease in very hot climates

Hi-Yield (35261) Triclopyr Ester (8oz)

Precision becomes your greatest ally when targeting stubborn clover infestations in cool-season lawns, and Hi-Yield Triclopyr Ester delivers the selective control you need. This concentrated liquid herbicide effectively eliminates actively growing broadleaf weeds, including persistent clover varieties that resist other treatments. You’ll achieve excellent results on perennial bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue lawns, where triclopyr’s selective action protects your desirable grass while eliminating unwanted clover. However, you must avoid applying this product on warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass, St. Augustine, or Zoysiagrass, as it can cause significant damage to these varieties.

Best For: Homeowners with cool-season lawns (perennial bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, or tall fescue) who need to eliminate stubborn broadleaf weeds like clover, oxalis, and wild violet that have resisted other treatments.

Pros:

• Provides selective control that effectively eliminates broadleaf weeds while protecting desirable cool-season grasses
• Targets persistent weeds like clover, oxalis, and wild violet that are often resistant to other herbicide treatments
• Concentrated liquid formula allows for precise application and coverage control

Cons:

• Cannot be used on warm-season grasses including Bermudagrass, St. Augustine, Zoysiagrass, Bahiagrass, Bentgrass, and Centipedegrass
• Application rates vary significantly based on lawn dimensions and grass type, requiring careful label consultation
• Only effective on actively growing weeds, limiting application timing and seasonal effectiveness

Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns Concentrate (1 gal.)

Homeowners managing large lawns will find Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns Concentrate particularly valuable, as this gallon-sized herbicide treats up to 64,000 square feet in a single purchase. You’ll appreciate its broad-spectrum effectiveness against over 250 broadleaf weeds, including stubborn clover, dandelion, chickweed, and spurge. The concentrate kills weeds down to their roots, delivering visible results within hours while remaining rainproof after just one hour. You can safely apply this herbicide to most common grass types, including Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Tall Fescue, though you should avoid treating Floratam St. Augustinegrass. For ideal results, apply during spring or fall when temperatures stay below 90°F.

Best For: Homeowners with large lawns up to 64,000 square feet who need to eliminate broadleaf weeds like dandelion, clover, and chickweed from common grass types while wanting an economical, fast-acting solution.

Pros:

• Treats massive coverage area of up to 64,000 square feet per gallon, making it highly economical for large properties
• Kills over 250 broadleaf weeds down to the root with visible results in hours and becomes rainproof in just one hour
• Safe for most common grass types including Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Tall Fescue when applied properly

Cons:

• Cannot be used on Floratam St. Augustinegrass and requires careful temperature timing below 90°F for optimal results
• Sprayer nozzle may clog during application, potentially disrupting treatment coverage
• Persistent weeds may require multiple applications to achieve complete elimination

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Herbicide for Clover

When selecting the right herbicide for clover control, I recommend evaluating several key factors that’ll determine your success and lawn’s health. The active ingredient’s effectiveness against clover, your specific grass type’s tolerance to chemicals, and your lawn’s total coverage area all play essential roles in making the best choice. Additionally, you’ll want to take into account your preferred application method, whether spray or granular, along with current weather conditions and temperature ranges for ideal results.

Active Ingredient Effectiveness

Beyond choosing the right herbicide brand, understanding active ingredients serves as the foundation for successful clover control in your lawn. I’ve found that 2,4-D, Dimethylamine salt, and Triclopyr are particularly effective compounds that specifically target broadleaf weeds like clover. These systemic formulations work at the root level, which means they’ll eliminate the entire plant rather than just burning the surface foliage.

Timing your application makes a significant difference in effectiveness. I recommend applying herbicides when clover is actively growing and temperatures stay below 90°F for best results. You’ll also need thorough foliage coverage, so follow mixing instructions carefully and adjust your sprayer settings accordingly. Some active ingredients show visible results within hours, while others require several days to demonstrate their full impact on stubborn clover patches.

Grass Type Compatibility

Selecting herbicides that work harmoniously with your specific grass type prevents accidental damage while effectively eliminating clover from your lawn. I always check product labels carefully to guarantee compatibility with my grass variety, whether it’s Bermudagrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, or another species. Selective herbicides offer excellent results because they target clover specifically while protecting established lawn grasses in mixed environments. Temperature and timing play significant roles in compatibility, so I apply herbicides when my grass is actively growing and temperatures stay below 90°F. I’m particularly cautious with sensitive grass species that might suffer damage even from “safe” herbicides. Following recommended mixing instructions and application rates guarantees I don’t accidentally harm my grass through improper usage, maintaining a healthy lawn throughout the treatment process.

Coverage Area Requirements

Understanding your lawn’s total square footage becomes essential before purchasing any clover herbicide, as product coverage varies dramatically from concentrated formulas covering 3,200 square feet to ready-to-use options treating up to 64,000 square feet. I recommend measuring your lawn carefully to avoid purchasing insufficient product or wasting money on excess herbicide. Different formulations require specific mixing instructions, and application rates per square foot can greatly impact effectiveness across larger treatment areas.

Consider your local weather patterns when evaluating coverage needs, as rainproof timeframes affect how quickly you must complete applications. Faster-acting herbicides provide quicker clover control but may require strategic timing, while slower products offer more flexibility for larger properties requiring extended application periods.

Application Method Preference

When choosing your clover herbicide, the application method you prefer greatly influences both your success and satisfaction with the treatment process. I recommend considering whether you prefer concentrated liquids or ready-to-use sprays, as each offers distinct advantages for different situations and lawn sizes. Concentrated formulas typically provide better value per square foot and cover larger areas effectively, though they require proper mixing and often need specific sprayers for ideal results. Ready-to-use sprays offer immediate convenience without dilution requirements, making them ideal for smaller areas or spot treatments. Many modern herbicides work seamlessly with standard garden hose attachments, which makes treating expansive lawns much more manageable for homeowners. Your choice should align with your comfort level, lawn size, and available equipment.

Weather and Temperature

Beyond selecting the right application method for your herbicide, timing your treatment according to weather conditions and temperature ranges will greatly impact your clover control success. I recommend applying herbicides during clover’s active growth periods, specifically in spring or early fall when temperatures range between 45°F and 90°F. You’ll want to avoid treating during extreme heat, particularly above 85°F, since this can damage sensitive grass types and reduce herbicide effectiveness. I suggest waiting for soil temperatures to consistently reach above 65°F, which encourages ideal herbicide absorption and targeted weed control. Choose calm, dry days for application to minimize drift and guarantee precise targeting. Additionally, plan for at least one hour without rainfall after application, allowing the product to become rainproof and maximize effectiveness.

Rainproof Time Duration

One critical factor you’ll need to evaluate is the rainproof time duration, which determines how quickly your herbicide becomes resistant to rainfall after application. This timeframe typically ranges from one to six hours, and selecting the right duration can make or break your clover control efforts. If you’re dealing with unpredictable weather patterns, I’d recommend choosing herbicides that become rainproof within an hour, as they’ll protect your investment from sudden downpours. However, if you live in regions with frequent precipitation, longer rainproof durations offer better insurance against wash-off. When rain washes away your herbicide before it penetrates the clover leaves, you’ll lose both effectiveness and money, so always check the forecast and match your product accordingly.

Cost Per Square Foot

Understanding the cost per square foot will help you make smart purchasing decisions that balance effectiveness with your budget constraints. I’ve found that herbicide costs typically range from $0.02 to $0.10 per square foot, depending on concentration and brand quality. Concentrated formulations usually offer better value than ready-to-use sprays since they cover larger areas when mixed properly. For example, a 16-ounce concentrate covering 5,000 square feet often costs less than a 32-ounce ready-to-use spray with equivalent coverage. I recommend calculating total treatment costs by dividing the herbicide price by coverage area, ensuring your estimated usage aligns with your lawn’s specific needs. Consider efficiency factors too, since faster-acting products may require fewer applications, ultimately providing better long-term value.

Environmental Safety Concerns

How can you protect your lawn’s ecosystem while effectively controlling clover growth? I recommend choosing selective herbicides that target clover specifically while preserving your grass and beneficial plants. These products minimize biodiversity loss by avoiding damage to non-target species in your yard.

When selecting herbicides, I always check product labels for active ingredients and environmental safety information. Some chemicals can harm surrounding vegetation if they drift during application, so I apply them during calm weather conditions with appropriate temperatures.

Rainfastness is essential for protecting nearby water sources from contamination. I choose herbicides that become rainproof within hours, preventing wash-off into streams or groundwater. This approach maintains your lawn’s natural balance while effectively eliminating clover without compromising the broader ecosystem.

On a final note

I’ve shown you eight effective herbicides that target clover without damaging your grass, along with key selection factors. Remember, successful clover control depends on proper timing, accurate application rates, and choosing the right product for your lawn type. Start with spot treatments for small infestations, then move to broadcast applications if needed. With consistent effort and the right herbicide, you’ll achieve the clover-free lawn you want.