ASHEBORO, N.C. - Many people across Randolph County are rolling in clover - and they're not too happy about it.
Mark Danieley, Randolph County horticulture agent, said many have called in to ask about an abundance of white clover (Trifolium repens) in lawns. They are wondering why there is so much and what they can do about it.
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White clover is a perennial that was once a staple in most grass mixtures. Prior to the 1950s, turf grass growers included clover in lawn seed mixtures because it is guaranteed to grow in the most difficult soil conditions. Plus, clover is one of a handful of plants that puts nitrogen back into the soil.
White clover is still an important cover crop for pasture animals.
But today's homeowners dislike it. One problem is, of course, appearance. Nothing spoils the appearance of a nicely manicured lawn more than spots of white flowering clover.
Another problem is the flower. Clover is very attractive to bees. Those who suffer from an allergic reaction to bee stings, up to and including life-threatening anaphylactic shock, dread to see this bee-magnet crop up.
As to why clover is so plentiful this year, agricultural experts point out that clover grows best in cool, moist weather. Last year's near record rainfall probably contributed to a bumper crop of clover this year.
How to get rid of clover is a bit of a problem.
White clover has a very efficient fibrous root system. Plus, the plant stems can send out roots at the nodes or joints. Add to that an extremely productive seed capacity and you have a tough lawn weed adversary.
Danieley advises homeowners to use a cocktail of 2,4-D and MCPP such as is found in common commercial weedkillers like Weed-B-Gon.
Because the root system is shallow, it is also possible to dig or pull clover from the lawn and then reseed the bare spot. Keeping a vigorous and healthy lawn can also work because clover can be out-competed by an aggressive turf.