Clover is a persistent weed that can disrupt the uniform appearance of your Zoysia lawn. While clover adds nitrogen to the soil, it competes with Zoysia for water and nutrients.
This guide presents the top 10 herbicides that are safe for Zoysia and effective at eliminating clover. We also cover tips for application, maintenance, and answers to common lawn care questions.
Top 10 Best Herbicides for Killing Clover in Zoysia
1. Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed
– Best Dual-Action Control for Clover in Zoysia Grass
Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed
is one of the most trusted lawn products that combines weed control with fertilization. This granular formula is specially designed for southern grasses like Zoysia, making it highly effective. It not only kills stubborn clover but also nourishes your lawn for healthier growth.
To achieve the best results, it should be applied to wet grass, which allows the granules to stick to clover leaves. The active ingredients target broadleaf weeds, eliminating them from your lawn. At the same time, nitrogen in the fertilizer strengthens Zoysia roots and promotes greener turf.
This dual-action solution is perfect for homeowners who prefer convenient broadcast application. It simplifies lawn care by reducing the need for separate weed treatments and fertilizers. By using this method consistently, your Zoysia lawn will become thicker and more resistant to clover invasion.
Pros:
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Dual action
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Easy broadcast
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Strengthens grass
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Fast results
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Targets clover
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Improves color
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Widely available
Cons:
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Needs moisture
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Chemical-based
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Risk overuse
2. BioAdvanced All-in-One Lawn Weed & Crabgrass Killer – Broad-Spectrum Clover Control
BioAdvanced All-in-One Lawn Weed & Crabgrass Killer is a versatile selective herbicide that tackles clover and more than 200 other common lawn weeds without harming Zoysia grass. It contains four active ingredients, giving it powerful broad-spectrum control that many single-ingredient products can’t match.
The formula becomes rainproof in just one hour, ensuring it continues working even if unexpected weather rolls in. Homeowners typically see visible results within a few days, making it both efficient and dependable. Its effectiveness extends beyond clover, making it a practical choice for lawns facing multiple weed problems at once.
This product is best suited for property owners who want a comprehensive weed control solution rather than targeting clover alone. Its wide coverage and fast results make it one of the most reliable options for maintaining a healthy, clover-free Zoysia lawn.
Pros:
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Kills clover & 200+ weeds
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Safe for Zoysia grass
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Four active ingredients
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Rainproof in 1 hour
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Visible results in days
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Great for mixed-weed lawns
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Reliable broad-spectrum control
Cons:
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Slightly higher cost
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May require reapplication
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Strong formula needs careful use
3. Ortho Weed B Gon Plus Crabgrass Control – Spot Treatment Solution for Clover in Zoysia
Ortho Weed B Gon Plus Crabgrass Control is a powerful selective herbicide formulated to tackle clover and other broadleaf weeds while keeping Zoysia grass safe and healthy. Packaged in a ready-to-spray hose-end bottle, it offers easy application without the hassle of mixing. Once applied, it becomes rainproof within just one hour, ensuring long-lasting effectiveness.
This product works best during warm weather conditions when clover is actively growing, providing optimal absorption and faster results. While it can be used across larger areas, it is particularly effective for targeted spot treatments, making it ideal for homeowners who only need to manage patches of clover rather than full-lawn coverage.
Overall, Ortho Weed B Gon Plus Crabgrass Control is a convenient and efficient choice for Zoysia lawns. Its combination of ease of use, quick rainproofing, and proven clover control makes it stand out as a go-to option for selective spot treatments.
Pros:
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Safe for Zoysia grass
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Targets clover & broadleaf weeds
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Convenient hose-end spray bottle
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Rainproof in 1 hour
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Works in warm weather
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Great for spot treatments
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Easy to use
Cons:
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Not designed for full-lawn coverage
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May require multiple treatments
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Less effective in cooler weather
4. Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns – Affordable Clover Control for Zoysia
Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns is a selective herbicide designed to eliminate clover and other broadleaf weeds without damaging turf types such as Zoysia grass. Its affordability and effectiveness make it a popular choice for homeowners who want visible results quickly.
One gallon of this product can treat up to 16,000 sq ft, making it suitable for medium to large lawns. Visible results typically appear within 3–5 days, providing fast-acting weed control compared to many alternatives. To maximize effectiveness, it’s important to avoid mowing immediately before or after application.
This herbicide is especially well-suited for budget-conscious homeowners who want reliable clover control without overspending. It strikes a good balance between price, coverage, and results.
Pros:
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Targets clover & broadleaf weeds
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Safe for Zoysia
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Covers large areas
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Fast results (3–5 days)
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Affordable option
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Easy to apply
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Widely available
Cons:
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Requires mowing restrictions
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Not as strong as premium brands
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May need repeat applications
5. Southern Ag Lawn Weed Killer with Trimec – Broadleaf Clover Control for Zoysia Lawns
Southern Ag Lawn Weed Killer with Trimec is a selective herbicide that uses a Trimec-based formula to target broadleaf weeds such as clover without harming Zoysia grass. This makes it a trusted choice for lawns where clover is persistent but grass health must be preserved.
The product comes as a concentrate and must be properly diluted before application. It is compatible with both boom sprayers and hand sprayers, making it versatile for different lawn sizes and user preferences. Proper mixing ensures consistent results across treated areas.
This herbicide is ideal for experienced users who are treating larger lawns or need to cover wide spaces efficiently. With its strong formulation, it delivers professional-level results when used correctly.
Pros:
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Targets broadleaf weeds
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Safe on Zoysia
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Trimec-based formula
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Concentrate efficiency
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Works with sprayers
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Large-area coverage
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Professional results
Cons:
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Requires dilution
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Best for experienced users
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Strong formula
6. Tenacity Herbicide – Professional Pre- and Post-Emergent Clover Control for Zoysia Grass
Tenacity Herbicide is a professional-grade systemic herbicide that both kills clover and prevents it from growing back. It is unique in that it works as both a pre-emergent and post-emergent treatment. This dual action makes it highly effective for long-term clover management.
The formula requires the use of a non-ionic surfactant to ensure proper absorption by the weeds. Within just a few days, treated weeds begin to show a visible whitening effect, signaling that the herbicide is working. However, careful application is important when using it on Zoysia grass.
This product is excellent for detailed lawn care plans, offering flexibility and professional-level control. Homeowners who want a serious solution to clover will appreciate Tenacity’s strength, though it must be applied with precision.
Pros:
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Pre/post emergent
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Systemic action
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Long-lasting control
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Professional grade
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Visible results
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Prevents regrowth
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Highly effective
Cons:
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Needs surfactant
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Requires care
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Higher cost
7. Gordon’s SpeedZone Lawn Weed Killer – Professional Clover Control for Zoysia Grass
Gordon’s SpeedZone Lawn Weed Killer provides fast-acting control of clover and many other broadleaf weeds. It works effectively in both cool and warm climates, making it versatile across different seasons. Its selective formula ensures safety for Zoysia grass when used correctly.
One of its major strengths is that it becomes rainproof within hours, ensuring reliable results even in unpredictable weather. It performs exceptionally well even at lower temperatures, where many herbicides fail. This makes it a standout choice for early or late-season applications.
Trusted by many lawn care professionals, SpeedZone offers quick results and strong reliability. It is a proven product for homeowners who want visible improvements and professional-grade performance without hiring expensive services.
Pros:
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Fast-acting
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Works in cool temps
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Safe for Zoysia
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Rainproof quickly
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Professional quality
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Reliable option
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Broadleaf control
Cons:
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Chemical-based
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Higher cost
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Needs sprayer
8. Hi-Yield 2,4-D Amine Weed Killer – Cost-Effective Clover Control for Zoysia Grass
Hi-Yield 2,4-D Amine Weed Killer is a budget-friendly herbicide that provides reliable control of clover and dandelions. It is safe for use on Zoysia grass when applied carefully and according to directions. Homeowners seeking an economical yet effective product often rely on this option.
This formula requires mixing with water before application and is best applied with a sprayer. Proper handling ensures targeted coverage, minimizing the risk of damaging desirable plants. Using it during calm weather reduces drift and improves precision.
The herbicide delivers selective and focused weed control, making it effective for clover patches without harming surrounding grass. It is a great option for homeowners who want an affordable, DIY-friendly product that provides professional-level results.
Pros:
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Affordable option
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Targets clover
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Selective action
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DIY friendly
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Safe for Zoysia
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Reliable control
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Effective results
Cons:
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Requires mixing
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Risk of drift
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Needs sprayer
9. Bonide Weed Beater Ultra – Fast-Acting Clover Killer for Zoysia Grass
Bonide Weed Beater Ultra is a selective herbicide designed to control clover and over 200 other broadleaf weeds. It works effectively in both cool and warm weather, making it versatile throughout different seasons. This makes it a strong option for year-round clover management.
One of its biggest strengths is its rainfast property, as it becomes resistant to rain within just three hours. This ensures consistent results even if unexpected showers occur. Some homeowners even report visible improvements within 24 hours of application.
When used according to directions, it is safe for Zoysia lawns and does not harm the grass. Its quick results and reliability make it a popular choice for homeowners who want noticeable improvements without long waiting periods.
Pros:
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Works year-round
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Kills 200+ weeds
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Rainfast quickly
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Safe for Zoysia
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Fast results
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Reliable option
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Easy application
Cons:
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Chemical-based
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Needs care
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Costlier option
10. Compare-N-Save Weed Killer for Lawns – Affordable Clover Control for Zoysia Grass
Compare-N-Save Weed Killer for Lawns is a budget-friendly herbicide that effectively eliminates clover and other broadleaf weeds. It is safe for use on Zoysia grass, making it a reliable option for homeowners looking to manage weeds without damaging their lawn. The product is well-suited for both small and large yards.
This formula comes as a concentrated liquid that requires mixing before application. With the right dilution, it delivers professional-level results at a fraction of the cost. It is particularly useful for DIY lawn managers who want a customizable treatment approach.
Gardeners who need to cover large lawns or perform frequent treatments will find this herbicide especially cost-effective. Despite being economical, it offers strong weed control performance, keeping Zoysia lawns healthy and attractive.
Pros:
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Budget-friendly
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Concentrated power
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Covers large areas
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Kills clover fast
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DIY friendly
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Reliable control
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Safe for Zoysia
Cons:
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Requires mixing
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Slower results
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Careful measuring
Tips for Killing Clover in Zoysia Grass
- Mow your Zoysia lawn before applying herbicide to expose clover leaves.
- Choose a selective herbicide safe for warm-season grasses like Zoysia.
- Apply during active weed growth, typically spring through early summer.
- Use a surfactant when recommended to boost absorption.
- Avoid watering the lawn immediately after application unless directed.
- Follow up with a second treatment in 2–3 weeks if needed.
- Feed and water your lawn after weeds are controlled to strengthen turf.
Best Herbicide For Killing Clover In Zoysia (FAQs)
- Can you use 2,4-D on Zoysia grass? Yes, but check the label—only certain formulations are safe for Zoysia lawns.
- Does vinegar kill clover? It may burn leaves but won’t kill roots. Herbicides are more effective.
- When should I apply herbicide to clover? When clover is actively growing—usually spring through early summer.
- What is the best time of day to spray for clover? Early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and wind.
- Is clover bad for lawns? It competes with grass for water and nutrients but can also enrich soil nitrogen.
- Will these herbicides hurt my lawn? No, if you choose one that’s labeled for Zoysia turf and follow directions.
- Should I reseed after treating clover? Only if the lawn has bare patches or needs thickening.
Conclusion
Clover is one of the most persistent weeds in Zoysia lawns, but with the right herbicide and proper lawn care, you can keep your turf healthy and uniform.
No matter which product you choose, timing and application matter just as much as the herbicide itself. Apply during active clover growth, follow label instructions carefully, and combine your weed control with proper mowing, fertilization, and watering. With consistency, your Zoysia lawn can stay lush, healthy, and free of clover all season long.
