Oxalis

Other Names: Wood Sorrel, Sourgrass

Type: Broadleaf Perennial

Appearance: Oxalis has heart-shaped leaves that fold up at night or during overcast conditions. It produces small, yellow flowers and spreads through both seeds and rhizomes, forming dense patches in lawns.

Risk: Oxalis can quickly establish itself in lawns, particularly in areas with moist or shaded conditions. Its ability to regenerate from rhizomes makes it a resilient and challenging weed.

Timing: Oxalis is active throughout the growing season but becomes most noticeable in the spring and early summer. It thrives in temperatures between 50°F to 75°F.

Outlook: Due to its rhizomatous growth and prolific seed production, Oxalis can be challenging to control. Effective management measures are crucial to prevent its spread.

How to Control Oxalis

Managing this weed effectively requires a combination of preventative measures and quick treatment.

Prevention

Take action before this weed appears on your lawn by following best lawn care practices, especially focusing on:

• Improve Lawn Health: Maintain a thick, healthy lawn through proper watering, fertilization, and aeration to reduce open spaces for Oxalis to establish.
• Regular Mowing: Regular mowing prevents Oxalis from flowering and producing seeds.

Treatment

If you find this weed on your lawn, it’s best to take action immediately. Working with a lawn care professional is most effective, but you can also try these DIY options:

• Selective Herbicides: Apply selective herbicides labeled for broadleaf weed control, targeting Oxalis while preserving the health of the surrounding grass.
• Manual Removal: In small infested areas, carefully hand-remove Oxalis, ensuring thorough removal of rhizomes.

Green Image Lawn Care Knows All About Oxalis

When dealing with oxalis, trust Green Image Lawn Care to bring their extensive experience in weed control. Our experts understand the nuances of this invader and employ human- and environmentally-friendly methods for effective control. Contact us today for personalized solutions tailored to your lawn’s needs.