Birds-Foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus)

Leaf: Birds-Foot Trefoil has 3 leaflets on a short stalk with two more leaflets at the base of the stalk. The stalks are capable of reaching over 40cm in length if allowed to grow.

Flower: The flowers of Birds-Foot Trefoil resemble those of the Honeysuckle and can be seen from late April until late September. They are yellow in colour, they often have a thin red streak.

Preferred habitat: Birds-Foot Trefoil can tolerate a wide variety of soil types but prefers non acidic, dry soils.

Control: Hand weeding may be practical for a few plants, however be very thorough taking care that you remove all of the roots below and foliage above the ground.

For a large infestation a selective herbicide will have to be used for effective control. Use a selective weed killer containing a 2,4-D mixture or alternatively a mixture of fluroxypyr & clopyralid & MCPA, repeat again 6 weeks later if necessary.

Recommended selective weed killers for Birds-Foot Trefoil.

• Verdone Extra (fluroxypyr, clopyralid & MCPA).
• Westland lawn weed killer (2,4-D, mecoprop-p & dichlorprop-p).
• Westland lawn feed, weed & moss killer (2,4-D & mecoprop-p) includes a fertiliser.
• Westland Resolva lawn weed killer (MCPA, mecoprop-p & dicamba).
• Vitax lawn clear (fluroxypyr & mecoprop-p)
• Vitax green up lawn weed & feed + moss killer (2,4-D & mecoprop-p) includes a fertiliser.
• Doff lawn spot weeder (2,4-D, mecoprop-p& dichlorprop-p).

Like all chemicals used on the lawn and around the garden it is very important to follow the manufacturers guidelines and health and safety precautions. Please visit out weed control section for more information on the application of weed killers.

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