## How to Kill Clover in Flower Garden
Clover is a common weed that can quickly take over a flower garden. It is a low-growing, perennial plant that spreads through both seeds and stolons (above-ground runners). Clover can be difficult to control, as it is resistant to many herbicides. However, there are a number of effective ways to kill clover in flower garden.
### Cultural Control Methods
* **Mowing:** Mowing clover regularly can help to weaken the plants and prevent them from spreading. Mow the clover as low as possible without damaging the desirable plants.
* **Hand-pulling:** Hand-pulling clover is an effective way to remove the plants and prevent them from spreading. Be sure to remove the entire plant, including the roots.
* **Mulching:** Mulching around the desirable plants can help to suppress clover growth. Use a thick layer of mulch, such as wood chips or straw.
* **Crop rotation:** Clover is a nitrogen-fixing plant, which means that it can take nitrogen from the air and convert it into a form that plants can use. This can make it difficult to control clover in gardens where nitrogen-loving plants are grown. To prevent clover from taking over, rotate crops regularly and avoid planting nitrogen-loving plants in the same location year after year.
### Chemical Control Methods
If cultural control methods are not effective, chemical control may be necessary. There are a number of herbicides that are effective against clover. However, it is important to read the label carefully before using any herbicide, as some herbicides can damage desirable plants.
* **Glyphosate:** Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide that will kill all plants that it comes into contact with. It is important to use glyphosate carefully, as it can damage desirable plants if it is not applied correctly.
* **2,4-D:** 2,4-D is a selective herbicide that is effective against clover and other broadleaf weeds. It is important to use 2,4-D carefully, as it can damage desirable plants if it is not applied correctly.
### Natural Control Methods
There are a number of natural methods that can be used to kill clover in flower garden. These methods are often less effective than chemical control methods, but they are also less likely to damage desirable plants.
* **Corn gluten meal:** Corn gluten meal is a natural herbicide that can be used to kill clover. It works by inhibiting the growth of clover seedlings. Corn gluten meal is safe to use around desirable plants, but it can take several applications to be effective.
* **Vinegar:** Vinegar is a natural herbicide that can be used to kill clover. It works by burning the leaves of the clover plants. Vinegar is safe to use around desirable plants, but it is important to avoid getting it on the leaves of the desirable plants.
* **Salt:** Salt is a natural herbicide that can be used to kill clover. It works by dehydrating the clover plants. Salt is not safe to use around desirable plants, as it can damage the soil.
### How to Prevent Clover in Flower Garden
Once you have killed the clover in your flower garden, it is important to take steps to prevent it from coming back. Here are a few tips:
* **Keep the garden weed-free:** Weeds can provide a place for clover to grow and spread. Keep the garden weed-free by regularly mowing, hand-pulling, or using herbicides.
* **Fertilize the soil:** Fertilizing the soil can help to make the desirable plants stronger and more resistant to clover. Use a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
* **Water the plants deeply and regularly:** Watering the plants deeply and regularly can help to keep the soil moist and prevent clover from germinating.
* **Avoid overwatering:** Overwatering can leach nutrients from the soil and make it easier for clover to grow. Water the plants only when the soil is dry to the touch.
### Conclusion
Clover is a common weed that can quickly take over a flower garden. However, there are a number of effective ways to kill clover in flower garden. By following the tips in this article, you can keep your flower garden clover-free.