Ask the
Green Thumb
A gardening expert digs into and answers your homegrown questions.
By Ann Wied
Brookfield, Wisconsin
Clover Took Over
White clover is rampant in my front lawn. When I tried weed killer, it damaged my grass. Is there a way to get rid of just the clover?
—Fidel Sornoso, Monterey Park, California
A: In established lawns, you can control clover by hand-pulling it each season before seeds form, and planting new grass in open areas. Weed killers can also control white clover. Be sure to use an herbicide suggested for the species of turf grass in your yard, apply it at the recommended time of year, and read and follow all directions on the label to avoid damaging the lawn.
For help in identifying your turf grass and for herbicide recommendations, contact a horticulture advisor at the Los Angeles County Cooperative Extension office. Connect to their Web site our links page.
Ann Wied, our guest garden expert, is the Consumer Horticulture Educator for the UW-Extension in Waukesha County, Wisconsin. She teaches gardeners of all ages through workshops, hands-on gardening programs and presentations. Ann has a bachelor’s degree in horticulture and agriculture journalism.
Photo: Paula Cartwright (Headshot)
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