Florida is known for its warm climate and diverse plant life, but it is also home to a variety of weeds that can cause problems for both homeowners and farmers. These weeds can be found in a range of habitats, from sandy beaches to swamps and wetlands.
Some of the most common Florida weeds are invasive species that have been introduced from other parts of the world, and they can quickly take over native vegetation. It is important to understand the different types of weeds found in Florida in order to effectively manage them and protect the state’s natural resources.
Table of Contents
Florida weeds
| Name of weed | Type |
|---|---|
| American Burnweed | Annual |
| Annual Lespedeza | Annual |
| Artilleryweed | Annual |
| Asiatic Hawksbeard | Warm-season annual |
| Bermudagrass | Perrenial |
| Black Medic | Broadleaf Annual |
| Bracted Plantain | Perennial |
| Burweed | Annual |
| Carpetgrass | Warm-season perennial |
| Caterpillar Grass | Annual |
| Chamberbitter | Annual |
| Clover Rabbitfoot | Annual |
| Clumpy Rye | Annual or biennial |
| Chickweed | Annual |
| Speedwell | Annual or Perennial |
| Crabgrass | Annual |
| Creeping Beggarweed | Warm-season perennial |
| Dandelion | Perennial |
| Dayflower | Annual |
| Dichondra | Perennial |
| Dogfennel | Warm-season perennial |
| Dollarweed | Perennial |
| Doveweed | Warm-season perennial |
| Facelis | Annual |
| Florida Betony | Perennial |
| Florida Pusley | Annual |
| Globe Sedge | Perennial |
| Goosegrass | Annual |
| Gophertail Lovegrass | Perennial |
| Kyllinga Green | Perennial |
| Lawn Burweed | Annual |
| Poa annua | Annual |
| Knotweed | Perennial |
| Purple Cudweed | Perennial |
| Purslane | Annual |
| Rescuegrass | Annual |
| Spanish Needles | Annual |
| Spurges | Perennial |
| Thin Paspalum | Perennial |
| Yellow Woodsorrel | Perennial |
American Burnweed
American Burnweed, also known as fireweed, is an annual weed that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found throughout the United States, particularly in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and gardens. American Burnweed can grow up to three feet tall and has a bright green stem with small, yellow flowers that bloom from June to September.
While American Burnweed may have some medicinal properties, it is considered a weed because of its invasive nature and ability to spread quickly. It can compete with native plants for resources and can reduce biodiversity in ecosystems.
Type
Annual
Family
Asteraceae
Control
To control American Burnweed, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective.
Annual Lespedeza
Annual Lespedeza, also known as Japanese Clover, is an annual weed that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Asia and was introduced to North America in the early 1900s as a forage crop. However, it has since become a problematic weed in many areas, particularly in the southeastern United States. Annual Lespedeza can grow up to two feet tall and has small, pink or purple flowers that bloom from July to October.
Type
Annual
Family
Fabaceae
Control
Annual Lespedeza can be difficult to control because it produces a large number of seeds that can remain viable in the soil for several years. To control this weed, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or triclopyr can be effective.
Artilleryweed
Artilleryweed, also known as Pilea microphylla, is an annual weed that belongs to the Urticaceae family. It is native to Central and South America, but has become naturalized in many parts of the world, including the southeastern United States. Artilleryweed can grow up to two feet tall and has small, green flowers that bloom from May to October.
Artilleryweed is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with native plants for resources. It can also be problematic for homeowners because it can grow in cracks and crevices in sidewalks and driveways.
Type
Annual
Family
Urticaceae
Control
To control Artilleryweed, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective.
Asiatic Hawksbeard
Asiatic Hawksbeard, also known as Youngia japonica, is a warm-season annual weed that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Asia, but has become naturalized in many parts of the world, including the southeastern United States like Florida. Asiatic Hawksbeard can grow up to two feet tall and has small, yellow to orange flowers with toothed petals that bloom from April to November.
Asiatic Hawksbeard is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with native plants for resources. It can also be problematic for farmers because it can reduce crop yields.
Type
Warm-season annual
Family
Asteraceae
Control
To control Asiatic Hawksbeard, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective.
Bermudagrass
Bermudagrass is a hardy weed species that can spread through underground stems and rhizomes. While it is popular for its deep green color and ability to withstand mowing, it can become invasive if not managed properly. Some people may not consider Bermuda grass a weed due to its attractive appearance and manageable nature, but it is important to note that it can quickly become invasive without proper maintenance.
For those who prefer the look, feel, and color of Fescue grass, it is essential to carefully consider the maintenance needs and potential invasiveness of Bermuda grass before deciding to plant it.
Type
Perrenial
Family
Poaceae
Control
To control Bermuda grass, manual removal through hand pulling or mowing can be effective for small areas or isolated patches. For larger areas or more widespread infestations, pre and post-emergent herbicides, such as Roundup, Weed Beater Ultra, or Ortho Ground Clear, can be used.
Black Medic
The yellow-flowered, clover-like leaves of this small, low-growing annual weed make it easy to identify. Although it has a shallow root system that makes it easy to pull out of the soil, it can spread rapidly if not controlled in a timely manner.
Black medic is often used as a first line of defense against larger weeds like dandelions because its deep roots can draw out moisture from the soil. This feature makes it an excellent candidate for pre-emergent control since it can prevent other weeds from germinating in areas where black medic has been eliminated.
Type
Broadleaf Annual
Family
Legume
Control
Hand removal of this weed can be highly effective when the soil is moist since its roots are easier to pull out. Undertaking this task during damp conditions can increase the chances of a successful outcome. Alternatively, a herbicide application can also be used to control black medic.
Bracted Plantain
Bracted Plantain, also known as Plantago aristata, is a perennial weed that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in many parts of the United States, particularly in the western and central regions. Bracted Plantain can grow up to two feet tall and has long, narrow leaves with small, white or green flowers that bloom from May to September.
Bracted Plantain is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with native plants for resources. It can also be problematic for farmers because it can reduce crop yields.
Type
Perennial
Family
Plantaginaceae
Control
To control Bracted Plantain, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective.
Burweed
Lawn burweed is a winter annual weed that has small, white flowers and long pointed seed heads. Its leaves are narrow and needle-like, while its stems have a bristly texture. The leaves grow in an alternating pattern along the stem, giving it a “burr-like” appearance.
Type
Annual
Family
Asteraceae
Control
To effectively control lawn burweed, it’s crucial to apply a post-emergence herbicide between December and February, during the winter months. This is because the weed is smaller in size and easier to manage during this period. Additionally, it has not yet developed spine-tipped burs, which further aids in controlling its growth.
Carpetgrass
Carpetgrass, also known as Axonopus affinis, is a warm-season perennial weed that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and is often used as a turfgrass in low-maintenance areas. Carpetgrass can grow up to six inches tall and has short, narrow leaves with small, spike-like flowers that bloom from May to August.
Carpetgrass is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other grasses for resources. It can also be problematic for homeowners because it can form dense mats that make it difficult to mow.
Type
Warm-season perennial
Family
Poaceae
Control
To control Carpetgrass, it is important to maintain a healthy lawn with proper watering and mowing practices. In addition, hand pulling or digging out the weed can be effective, particularly when done when the soil is moist. For larger infestations, herbicides containing glyphosate or atrazine can be used, but it is important to follow label instructions carefully and use caution to avoid damage to non-target plants.
Caterpillar Grass
Caterpillar Grass, also known as Echinochloa crus-galli, is an annual weed that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to Asia but has become naturalized in many parts of the world, including the United States. Caterpillar Grass can grow up to four feet tall and has long, narrow leaves with small, spike-like flowers that bloom from June to September.
Caterpillar Grass is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for farmers because it can reduce crop yields.
Type
Annual
Family
Poaceae
Control
To control Caterpillar Grass, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective.
Chamberbitter
Chamberbitter is an annual broadleaf weed that has an upright growth habit and produces small yellow flowers. It can be challenging to control due to its ability to spread through seed production and underground stems. The yellow flowers, typically found between June and August, are the best way to identify this weed species.
Chamberbitter thrives in sunny areas with fertile soil and requires sufficient moisture to survive. While it typically does not cause significant damage, it can compete with other plants for water and nutrients if not managed appropriately.
Type
Annual
Family
Phyllanthaceae
Control
Manual removal by hand-pulling or hoeing can be effective for small infestations. For larger areas or more widespread infestations, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be used.
Clover Rabbitfoot
Clover Rabbitfoot, also known as Trifolium arvense, is an annual weed that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Europe but has become naturalized in many parts of the world, including the United States. Clover Rabbitfoot can grow up to 12 inches tall and has small, white or pink flowers that bloom from May to September.
Clover Rabbitfoot is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for farmers because it can reduce crop yields.
Type
Annual
Family
Fabaceae
Control
To control Clover Rabbitfoot, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective.
Clumpy Rye
Clumpy Rye, also known as Secale cereale, is an annual or biennial grass weed that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to Europe but has become naturalized in many parts of the world, including the United States. Clumpy Rye can grow up to three feet tall and has long, narrow leaves with small, spike-like flowers that bloom from May to August.
Clumpy Rye is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for farmers because it can reduce crop yields.
Type
Annual or biennial grass
Family
Poaceae
Control
To control Clumpy Rye, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective.
Chickweed
Chickweed is a creeping winter weed that grows in lawns. It germinates in cool temperatures, and when its seeds come into contact with the soil, they take root and allow the weed to spread rapidly, forming large patches in gardens or lawns.
Chickweed can be identified by the mats of foliage it forms on the ground and the small white flowers it produces. This weed species thrives in moist areas and can be challenging to control due to its ability to spread quickly. Therefore, it is essential to manage chickweed before it becomes a bigger problem.
Type
Annual
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Control
Manual removal by hand-pulling or hoeing can be effective for small infestations. For larger areas or more widespread infestations, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be used.
Speedwell
Speedwell is a low-growing weed that produces bright blue flowers on long stems, blooming early in the year, typically from March to May. It can form dense patches in gardens or lawns, with slender stems and small leaves. The stems are well-branched, almost horizontal, and covered in hair.
Speedwell thrives in moist conditions and prefers loamy soil. It is commonly found in grassy areas such as meadows, lawns, and pastures, as well as in waste grounds, woods, and hedgerows. This weed species can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources, making it problematic for gardeners and farmers.
Type
Annual or Perennial
Family
Plantaginaceae
Control
To manage speedwell, it is crucial to remove it before it produces seeds. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also be helpful in minimizing its growth and preventing seed germination. If the weed infestation is severe, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be used.
Crabgrass
Crabgrass is a sneaky little weed that likes to spread out horizontally like a crab’s legs. Its flat, green leaves point outward, and its finger-like florets give it a quirky appearance. The stems are spreading and branched, and its roots develop at the nodes on prostrate stems.
This weed prefers to thrive in hot and dry conditions, making it the perfect sunbather for your lawn. You can find it lurking in the weedy meadows, prairies, lawns, and gardens, fields, vacant lots, grassy paths, and even along roads and railroads. It’s like a little adventurer who loves to explore new places and make itself at home wherever it goes. So, be on the lookout for this crafty crabgrass, and don’t let it take over your lawn and garden!
Type
Annual
Family
Poaceae
Control
One way to control the growth and spread of crabgrass is by regularly mowing your lawn. However, preventing its growth altogether is the best approach, and this can be achieved by applying a pre-emergent herbicide. The herbicide should be sprayed during the spring when crabgrass starts to grow actively. This application will prevent the weed from taking hold in your lawn or garden and spreading uncontrollably.
Creeping Beggarweed
Creeping Beggarweed, also known as Desmodium incanum, is a warm-season perennial weed that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the southern United States. Creeping Beggarweed can grow up to three feet tall and has small, pink or purple flowers that bloom from June to September.
Creeping Beggarweed is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for farmers because it can reduce crop yields.
Type
Warm-season perennial
Family
Fabaceae
Control
To control Creeping Beggarweed, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective.
Dandelion
Dandelions are a popular hardy perennial weed that can withstand freezing temperatures. The weed produces blooms that emerge from a single stem, with flat, spear-shaped leaves that produce a milky sap.
Seed heads can be seen emerging from the flowers, and children often pluck these heads and blow them across the garden, which is one of the ways the weed quickly spreads its seeds. Dandelions prefer acidic soils and can be difficult to control due to their far-flung seed pods that can sprout hundreds of new shoots. This weed species can quickly take over a garden if not managed properly.
Type
Perennial
Family
Asteraceae
Control
To manage dandelions, it is crucial to remove them before they go to seed. This can be achieved by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching is also an effective method of suppressing growth and preventing seed germination. In cases where chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be used.
Dayflower
Dayflower is a low-growing annual weed that belongs to the Commelinaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in fields, gardens, lawns, and waste areas. Dayflower can grow up to 18 inches tall and has small, delicate blue flowers that bloom from June to October.
Dayflower is considered a weed because it can spread quickly and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for farmers because it can reduce crop yields.
Type
Annual
Family
Commelinaceae
Control
To control Dayflower, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective.
Dichondra
Dichondra is a creeping perennial weed that belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in lawns, gardens, and waste areas. Dichondra has small, round leaves and can grow up to six inches tall.
Dichondra is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and form dense mats, competing with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for gardeners because it can be difficult to control.
Type
Perennial
Family
Convolvulaceae
Control
To manage Dichondra, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective.
Dogfennel
Dogfennel, also known as Eupatorium capillifolium, is a warm-season perennial weed that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in fields, pastures, and waste areas. Dogfennel can grow up to six feet tall and has small, white flowers that bloom from August to November.
Dogfennel is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for farmers because it can reduce crop yields.
Type
Warm-season perennial
Family
Asteraceae
Control
To control Dogfennel, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective. In some cases, repeated applications may be necessary to fully control Dogfennel.
Dollarweed
Dollarweed is a pesky perennial weed that has a low-growing habit and is invasive in nature. It thrives in wet and shady areas where it can spread rapidly, forming thick mats. The leaves of this weed are round and have a greenish-gray color, and they emit a strong odor when crushed. The weed’s tenacity and ability to take over a lawn or garden make it a significant challenge for gardeners and homeowners. If left uncontrolled, Dollarweed can quickly become a nuisance and reduce the aesthetic appeal of a yard.
Type
Perennial
Family
Araliaceae
Control
To manage Dollarweed, it is essential to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination.
Doveweed
Doveweed, also known as Murdannia nudiflora, is a warm-season perennial weed that belongs to the Commelinaceae family. It is native to Asia and can be found in lawns, gardens, and waste areas. Doveweed has long, narrow leaves and can grow up to two feet tall.
Doveweed is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and form dense mats, competing with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for gardeners because it can be difficult to control.
Type
Warm-season perennial
Family
Commelinaceae
Control
To manage Doveweed, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective.
Facelis
Facelis is a genus of plants in the Asteraceae family that contains several species, including Facelis retusa, Facelis rusbyi, and Facelis discolor. These plants are native to South America and are considered weeds in some areas. They are typically low-growing, with small, yellow flowers and narrow leaves.
Facelis can be difficult to control because it can spread rapidly and form dense mats, competing with other plants for resources.
Type
Annual
Family
Asteraceae
Control
To manage Facelis, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective.
Florida Betony
Florida Betony, also known as Stachys floridana, is a perennial weed that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in lawns, gardens, and waste areas. Florida Betony can grow up to 18 inches tall and has small, pink or purple flowers that bloom from March to June.
Florida Betony is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for gardeners because it can be difficult to control.
Type
Perennial
Family
Lamiaceae
Control
To manage Florida Betony, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing atrazine or 2,4-D can be effective. In some cases, repeated applications may be necessary to fully control Florida Betony.
Florida Pusley
Florida Pusley, also known as Richardia scabra, is an annual weed that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in lawns, gardens, and waste areas. Florida Pusley can grow up to six inches tall and has small, white or pink flowers that bloom from May to October.
Florida Pusley is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for gardeners because it can be difficult to control.
Type
Annual
Family
Rubiaceae
Control
To manage Florida Pusley, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or 2,4-D can be effective. In some cases, repeated applications may be necessary to fully control Florida Pusley.
Globe Sedge
Sedges are perennial grass-like weeds that form dense mats in lawns. They have narrow, hair-like leaves and grow in a triangular pattern. The leaves are arranged in three rows with one row of thickened stems at the center. Sedges can quickly take over turf if left unchecked.
Type
Perennial
Family
Cyperaceae
Control
Preemergent herbicides are the most effective way to control sedges; however, post-emergent treatments may also be necessary for established populations. Be sure to apply the herbicide when the weed is actively growing and follow up with another application as needed. Additionally, keep lawns healthy by fertilizing regularly and pulling up the weed by hand.
Goosegrass
Goosegrass is a weed composed of mostly green, flat stems. White coloring is present at the bottom and lower sections of the plant. The leaves are long and narrow, with a pointy tip. Goosegrass is most easily identified by its thick stems and pointed seed heads.
Type
Annual Grass
Family
Poaceae
Control
To have a healthy lawn, it is recommended to Core Aerate each year because Goosegrass thrives in compacted soil. To control this weed, post-emergent herbicides may be used to target established Goosegrass. Be sure to apply the herbicide during the early stages of growth and follow up with another application as needed.
Gophertail Lovegrass
Gophertail Lovegrass, also known as Eragrostis pectinacea, is a warm-season perennial weed that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in fields, pastures, and waste areas. Gophertail Lovegrass can grow up to three feet tall and has small, fluffy seed heads that bloom from June to September.
Gophertail Lovegrass is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for farmers because it can reduce crop yields.
Type
Perennial
Family
Poaceae
Control
To control Gophertail Lovegrass, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or imazapic can be effective. However, it is important to follow label instructions carefully and use caution to avoid damage to non-target plants. In some cases, repeated applications may be necessary to fully control Gophertail Lovegrass.
Kyllinga Green
Kyllinga Green, also known as Kyllinga brevifolia, is a perennial weed that belongs to the Cyperaceae family. It is native to Asia and can be found in lawns, gardens, and waste areas. Kyllinga Green can grow up to 12 inches tall and has small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom from May to September.
Kyllinga Green is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for gardeners because it can be difficult to control.
Type
Perennial
Family
Cyperaceae
Control
To manage Kyllinga Green, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing sulfentrazone or halosulfuron can be effective.
Chickweed
Chickweed is a low-growing weed, reaching a height of 30 cm. It sprawls on the soil surface to form mats of foliage. It can be identified by its simple, frosty leaves and white flowers with five petals.
The weed species grow well in the winter. It prefers cool, moist conditions, and does not tolerate hot temperatures. Chickweed can quickly spread over the bare land in a garden or lawn.
Type
Annual
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Control
Chickweed can be removed by hand-weeding. However, it is time-consuming. When it comes to chickweed, prevention is the better option. When you notice a weed showing up in your garden or lawn, pull it out immediately. Appropriate herbicides and selective weedkillers can be used to control chickweed invasions.
Poa annua
Poa Annua, also known as Annual Bluegrass, is a hardy annual weed that can spread quickly in lawns. Its leaves are thin and narrow with pointed tips, while its flowers are light green or yellowish-green. Poa Annua prefers moist soil and can survive in both sun and shade.
Type
Annual
Family
Poaceae
Control
Poa Annua prefers moist soil, so be careful not to overwater your lawn. For best results, treat your lawn with a pre-emergent herbicide in the fall to prevent the seeds from germinating.
Knotweed
knotweed can be easily identified by its white flowers emerging from pink buds and reddish-purple shoots. The plant grows through piping, cables, buildings, and foundations, eventually causing extensive damage to the property. The weed species blooms best in late summer and early autumn. Well, the plant is too difficult to control once established.
Type
Perennial
Family
Polygonaceae
Control
Professional guidance is required to control this weed. However, you can use approved herbicides to prevent it from spreading. It normally takes up to three years to completely treat knotweed.
Purple Cudweed
Purple Cudweed is a perennial weed species with small, purple flowers that can grow up to 2 feet in height. Its leaves are oblong-shaped and feel fuzzy to the touch. It often grows in clusters and prefers sunny locations.
Type
Perennial
Family
Asteraceae
Control
Control cudweed by diluting Dismiss herbicide with water and applying it as a spot treatment to the affected areas. The Dismiss formulation contains 2,4-D and dicamba, two active ingredients that will effectively target this tough weed.
Purslane
Tasty and succulent, purslane (or Portulaca oleracea) is a leafy green vegetable with red stems, small green leaves, and an impressive 93% water content. It can be enjoyed raw or cooked in various dishes under many of its other names such as pigweed, little hogweed, fatweed, and pusley.
It is considered a weed by many but is a healthy, nutritious plant. Purslane contains more omega-3 fatty acids than any other leafy vegetable, plus vitamins B and C, iron, magnesium, calcium and potassium.
Type
Annual
Family
Portulacaceae
Control
Eliminating purslane can be achieved by both manual extraction or chemical control methods. Rainfall and irrigation can help conserve soil moisture, which will reduce its spread. Additionally, broadleaf herbicides such as 2,4-D or dicamba (Weed Master) can also be used to effectively control it.
Rescuegrass
Rescuegrass, also known as Bromus catharticus, is a cool-season annual weed that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to South America and can be found in fields, pastures, and waste areas. Rescuegrass can grow up to three feet tall and has small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom from May to August.
Rescuegrass is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for farmers because it can reduce crop yields.
Type
Annual
Family
Poaceae
Control
To control Rescuegrass, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or imazapic can be effective.
Spanish Needles
Spanish Needles, also known as Bidens pilosa, is a warm-season annual weed that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South America and can be found in lawns, gardens, and waste areas. Spanish Needles can grow up to three feet tall and has small, yellow flowers that bloom from June to November.
Spanish Needles is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for gardeners because it can be difficult to control.
Type
Annual
Family
Asteraceae
Control
To manage Spanish Needles, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate, 2,4-D, or dicamba can be effective. However, it is important to follow label instructions carefully and use caution to avoid damage to non-target plants. In some cases, repeated applications may be necessary to fully control Spanish Needles.
Spurges
Spurge is a common warm-season weed, usually found in container nurseries. Its flowers are greenish-white. When its leaves or stems are broken, a milky sap exudes. There are several types of spurge including ground spurge and spotted spurge, which are almost similar, having prostrate to ascending stems carrying oblong or round leaves.
The weed species can be commonly found in grasslands, pastures, roadsides, and prairies. It survives in a wide range of soil types.
Type
Perennial
Family
Euphorbiaceae
Control
You can remove a small patch of spurge effectively by hand-pulling. However, the primary method of dealing with spurges is prevention, because controlling these weeds seems to be hard, especially when the plants have taken root. Various post-emergent herbicides can also be used to control spurge invasions in your garden or lawn.
Thin Paspalum
Thin Paspalum, also known as Paspalum setaceum, is a warm-season perennial weed that belongs to the Poaceae family. It is native to South America and can be found in lawns, gardens, and waste areas. Thin Paspalum can grow up to two feet tall and has small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom from May to September.
Thin Paspalum is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for gardeners because it can be difficult to control.
Type
Perennial
Family
Poaceae
Control
To manage Thin Paspalum, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing glyphosate or imazapic can be effective.
Yellow woodsorrel
Yellow woodsorrel, also known as Oxalis stricta, is a perennial weed that belongs to the Oxalidaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in lawns, gardens, and waste areas. Yellow woodsorrel can grow up to 12 inches tall and has small, yellow flowers that bloom from May to September.
Yellow woodsorrel is considered a weed because it can quickly spread and compete with other plants for resources. It can also be problematic for gardeners because it can be difficult to control.
Type
Perennial
Family
Oxalidaceae
Control
To manage Yellow woodsorrel, it is important to remove it before it goes to seed. This can be done by hand-pulling or using a hoe to cut the stem below the soil surface. Mulching can also help to suppress growth and prevent seed germination. If chemical control is necessary, herbicides containing dicamba or 2,4-D can be effective.
