Weed and Feed is a dual-action lawn care product that combines granular fertilizer with a selective herbicide designed to manage common weeds. This combination allows homeowners to nourish their turfgrass while simultaneously eliminating unwanted plants. Clover, specifically white clover (Trifolium repens), is a persistent, low-growing perennial frequently found in lawns. This plant is often considered a nuisance because it competes with turfgrass for resources and creates an uneven appearance. This article clarifies the product’s effectiveness against clover and explains the necessary steps for a successful application.
Answering the Question: Does Weed and Feed Kill Clover?
Yes, most commercially available Weed and Feed products are formulated to kill clover and other broadleaf weeds. The effectiveness comes from the selective herbicides included in the mix, which are chosen to target the biological structure of clover. Clover is classified as a dicot, or broadleaf plant, making it susceptible to these weed killers. The product must be applied when the clover is actively growing so it can absorb the herbicide through its foliage.
The fertilizer component also aids in clover elimination by promoting dense turfgrass growth. Clover often thrives in soil with low nitrogen content because it can fix nitrogen from the air, unlike grass. By adding nitrogen-rich fertilizer, the grass becomes thicker and more vigorous, which naturally crowds out the clover by blocking sunlight. This two-part approach—chemical eradication and environmental competition—provides a comprehensive method for removing clover from a lawn.
How Broadleaf Herbicides Target Clover
The herbicides used in these combination products are known as synthetic auxins, which are compounds that mimic natural plant growth hormones. Common active ingredients include 2,4-D, MCPP, and Dicamba, which are highly effective against clover. These chemicals are absorbed primarily through the leaves and then translocated throughout the entire clover plant, disrupting its normal growth processes.
Once inside the plant, the synthetic auxins cause the clover cells to grow rapidly and uncontrollably. This uncontrolled growth exhausts the plant’s resources, leading to stem twisting, leaf curling, and ultimately, the death of the weed. The selective nature of these compounds is based on the fundamental biological difference between broadleaf weeds and turfgrass.
Clover is a dicotyledon (dicot), meaning its seedlings have two seed leaves, while turfgrass is a monocotyledon (monocot), having only one seed leaf. Monocots and dicots process these synthetic hormones differently. Turfgrass is much less susceptible to the effects of the herbicide, allowing the weed killer to eliminate the clover without causing significant damage to the lawn.
Timing and Method for Effective Application
Achieving maximum control over clover requires careful attention to the application timing and method. The best time to apply a Weed and Feed product is when the clover is actively growing, which typically occurs in the spring and again in the fall. Applying the herbicide during these periods ensures that the plant is metabolizing and can efficiently draw the chemical down into its roots.
It is recommended to avoid applying the product when temperatures are consistently above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. High heat can cause the turfgrass to become stressed and more vulnerable to herbicide damage, potentially leading to lawn discoloration or “burn.” Additionally, the product label will often specify that the lawn should be slightly damp before a granular application.
A damp leaf surface allows the herbicide granules to stick directly to the clover foliage, which is necessary for absorption. After application, it is important to wait for a specific period, usually 24 to 48 hours, before watering the lawn or allowing rain. This delay ensures the herbicide has enough contact time with the clover leaves to begin the process of translocation. Always consult and follow the specific instructions provided on the product’s label for the safest and most effective results.