Plant Problem Diagnostic
How to Identify and Control White Clover
The short answer
White clover (Trifolium repens) is a low-growing perennial legume with three rounded leaflets, often marked with a pale crescent, and white to slightly pink globe-shaped flower clusters. Its rounded, creeping stems root at the nodes and form perennial mats that spread 1 to 2 feet.
Clover often indicates low soil nitrogen because, as a legume, it thrives where turf is underfed. The core cultural control is to feed and thicken the lawn so grass outcompetes it; small patches can be dug or hand-pulled.
How to identify white clover
- Three rounded leaflets, often with a white crescent mark
- White or pinkish globe-shaped flower clusters
- Smooth, rounded creeping stems that root at nodes
- Perennial mats spreading 1 to 2 feet; poor shade and traffic tolerance
Cultural and physical control
Because clover flags low nitrogen, maintaining adequate soil fertility and a dense, healthy turf is the best defense against it spreading. Dig out or hand-pull small patches, then reseed thin spots so grass fills back in.
When to escalate
If clover has spread widely and cultural steps are not enough, you may want to escalate. For chemical control options and best application timing, consult your county Extension office.
→ For chemical control options, contact your local county Extension office for products and timing appropriate to your lawn.
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-18. We cite university Extension, government, and established horticultural sources — and never invent pesticide rates or dangerous treatments.
- University of Minnesota Extension — Dutch white clover — Perennial legume, three leaflets often with white crescent, creeping stems root at nodes, white/pink globe flowers, associated with low nitrogen
- University of Maryland Extension — Clover — Forms perennial mats 1-2 ft, poor shade/traffic tolerance, dense healthy turf best defense, dig or hand-pull small patches