Lesser Trefoil (Trifolium dubium)

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General Information: Lesser Trefoil also known as 'Yellow Suckling Clover' is a member of the clover family and can be a major problem in lawns. Due to its low growing habit it can colonise quickly and choke the grass killing it.

Leaf: Lesser Trefoil leaves have 3 leaflets which grow on short stalks, unlike white clover, on which there are no stalks.

Flower: The small flowers which are self pollinating are yellow initially, later turning brown and flowering from May to October.

Preferred habitat: Lesser Trefoil or Yellow Suckling Clover, prefers free draining, non acidic and nutrient deficient soils

Control: If the clumps are small and few hand weeding may be practical taking care to remove the whole plant.

In most cases where Lesser Trefoil has been allowed to spread chemical control will be necessary to control this weed. Use a selective weed killer containing a 2,4-D mixture or a product containing a mixture of fluroxypyr & clopyralid, one application is usually not enough, so repeat 6 weeks later if necessary for complete control of this weed. For help and tips on applying selective herbicide's please visit our lawn control page.

Recommended selective weed killers for Lesser 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).

When using chemicals always follow the manufactures application and health & safety guidelines.

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