Preemergence for Controlling Burr Clover

Which Preemergent Herbicide to Use

• According to the University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program website, using preemergent herbicide is generally not needed since you can easily control burclover without chemicals. If you choose to use preemergent herbicides, however, use a brand that contains isoxaben as the active ingredient in granular form. Use this herbicide only in a landscape setting and not on turfgrass. Use other options for controlling burclover that appear in your lawn.

Applying the Herbicide Properly

• Use a drop-type or shaker-type spreader to properly apply the isoxaben granular herbicide. A drop-type shaker works best for extensive infestations of burclover in large areas while a shaker-type spreader is best on single burclover infestations in small areas. Every brand of isoxaben herbicide has directions you must follow to prevent damage to surrounding vegetation and increase its effectiveness. For example, one brand of isoxaben herbicide suggests using 1 cup of the granular herbicide per 100 square feet. After application, water the area lightly to activate the granular herbicide.

Cautions and Warnings

• Before applying the herbicide, familiarize yourself with the warnings on the herbicide bottle and always wear the proper safety attire such as rubber gloves, safety glasses, long sleeve shirt and pants. If the herbicide comes in contact with eyes or skin, flush the area for 20 minutes with cool water. If ingested, do not induce vomiting and immediately contact poison control. Isoxaben herbicide is extremely toxic to fish and aquatic wildlife; never apply it directly to water or allow it to run off into waterways.

Other Options for Controlling Burclover

• Before using herbicides to control burclover, consider manually hand pulling the weeds. This can be a time consuming task but -- with proper cultural practices -- will control and prevent burclover in any setting. The University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program website recommends promoting thick and healthy grass to prevent clovers from appearing in your lawn. They also suggest adjusting the fertilization so the turf receives more nitrogen and less phosphorus to help prevent burclover growth.