Do You Have White Clover?

(Updated: July 31, 2025, 7:49 a.m.)

Trifolium repens

White Clover is a common weed in turf. While unsightly in lawns it is a very valuable forage in pastures. It is a legume which means it creates its own nitrogen from taking it from the air. This occurs from a symbiotic relationship with a bacteria. The bacteria creates a nodule on the root to benefit the bacteria and the clover. The forage is available the most in April and May. For more information on general forage information go to Forages for North Carolina: General Guidelines and Concepts.

White Clover is susceptible to 2,4-D and Dicamba. It should not be sprayed with either if you are wanting clover in your pasture. When establishing in a pasture you can drill or broadcast white clover at 5 lbs an acre. For more information call N.C. Cooperative Extension – Lee County Center at 919-775-5624.

White Clover with Flower
White clover stem with leaves and flower.