Changing the Environment. One option to get rid of purple clover is to change the environment of the yard so grass can thrive but the clover can't. Purple clover does well in moist environments, and clovers in general thrive in soil high in phosphorous.anual Removal. If you can catch the purple clover early, you may be able to remove it manually. Clover has a taproot you can dig out with a spade or shovel. This is especially useful when purple clover appears in gardens or flower beds.