Clover, a low-growing perennial with small white flowers, often appears in lawns as an uninvited guest. Though some see it as a weed disrupting a uniform green lawn, clover is not harmful—in fact, it brings several surprising benefits to the plants, soil, and broader garden ecosystem.
Cory Tanner, Horticulture Program Team Director for Clemson University Cooperative Extension, explains that clover is part of the legume family and plays a valuable role in enriching soil by “fixing” nitrogen—an essential nutrient for plant health.
This ability helps nearby grass and garden plants thrive, making clover more than just an eyesore to those seeking a flawless lawn.
Still, for homeowners who prefer a clean, clover-free lawn, Tanner recommends natural removal methods. The most effective chemical-free approach is hand-pulling the plant. “Hand digging and hand pulling of clover is the main way to remove it without herbicides,” he says. For large patches, removing the turf and reseeding may be necessary.
To prevent clover from returning, Tanner emphasizes strong lawn maintenance. “The best prevention for clover is to maintain a healthy, vigorous, and dense turf,” he says. That includes proper mowing height based on grass species, regular watering (around one inch weekly), and ensuring the lawn doesn’t suffer stress that gives weeds an opening to grow.
Despite its persistence, clover has ecological value. Its flowers bloom in spring and attract a variety of pollinators, including native bees and butterflies. With insect populations declining dramatically—by 45% over the past 40 years, according to a 2023 meta-analysis—clover can serve as an important nectar source. Its presence also supports beneficial insects that help with natural pest control.
Ultimately, the decision to remove or keep clover depends on aesthetic preferences. Some may love the idea of scattered white blooms and a pollinator-friendly yard, while others may want a uniform green carpet. Either way, understanding clover’s role among plants and flowers reveals it’s far from a useless weed.
