Weeds can be a persistent problem for homeowners in Florida, where the warm climate and frequent rains provide an ideal environment for various types of weeds to thrive. Tackling these unwelcome intruders requires understanding the common weeds that invade Florida lawns, employing effective weed control strategies, and maintaining a healthy lawn to prevent future invasions. This article will guide you through identifying common Florida weeds and provide practical methods on how to get rid of weeds in Florida lawn.

To get rid of weeds in Florida lawn, maintain a healthy lawn through proper mowing, fertilization, and irrigation practices. Use pre-emergent herbicides in early spring to prevent weed seeds from germinating, and apply post-emergent herbicides to target existing weeds. Hand-pull weeds with deep roots, like dandelions and dollarweed, ensure that the entire root system is removed. Additionally, improves soil drainage and reduces lawn compaction to discourage weed growth. Regularly inspect your lawn and address any weed issues promptly to prevent them from spreading.

15 Common Weeds in Florida Lawns

While there may be dozens of lawn weeds, not all types invade Florida lawns. Here are the fifteen common weeds you can find in Florida lawns:

1. Dollarweed (Hydrocotyle umbellata)

Dollarweed, also known as pennywort, is a low-growing perennial weed characterized by its round, shiny leaves that resemble small silver dollars, hence the name.

The leaves are about the size of a coin and have scalloped edges. Dollarweed thrives in moist, poorly drained areas and spreads aggressively through both rhizomes and seeds. This weed is particularly troublesome in lawns with excessive irrigation or poor drainage, where it can quickly form dense mats that crowd out desirable grasses.

2. Crabgrass (Digitaria spp.)

Crabgrass is a problematic summer annual grass known for its course, light green blades that grow outward in a star-like pattern. This weed is commonly found in bare or thin lawn areas and grows aggressively in warm temperatures.

Crabgrass germinates in the spring when soil temperatures rise and continues to grow throughout the summer. It produces many seeds that can remain viable in the soil for several years, making it a persistent issue in poorly maintained lawns.

3. Chickweed (Stellaria media)

Chickweed is a low-growing winter annual that forms dense mats in lawns. It has small, white, star-shaped flowers and oval, smooth leaves. Chickweed thrives in cool, moist conditions, often appearing in lawns during the fall and winter months.

This weed spreads rapidly through both seeds and creeping stems that root at the nodes, making it difficult to control once established. Chickweed can outcompete lawn grasses, particularly in shaded or poorly drained areas.

4. Clover (Trifolium spp.)

Clover is a common perennial weed in lawns, easily recognized by its trifoliate (three-leaf) leaves and small, white or pink flowers.

While clover can fix nitrogen in the soil, which benefits nearby plants, it is often considered undesirable in lawns due to its aggressive growth.

Clover tends to thrive in nutrient-poor soils and can spread rapidly through seeds and stolons. It is particularly prevalent in lawns that are not fertilized regularly or have low soil fertility.

5. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelion is a well-known perennial weed with a deep taproot, bright yellow flowers, and toothed leaves. The flowers turn into seed heads that form fluffy white balls, which disperse seeds by wind.

Dandelions are highly adaptable and can grow in various soil conditions, making them a common lawn weed. The deep taproot makes removing them difficult, as any piece of root left in the soil can regenerate into a new plant. Dandelions can outcompete lawn grasses, particularly in thin or bare areas.

Related: How to Get Rid of Dandelions in Yard

6. Florida Pusley (Richardia scabra)

Florida Pusley is a summer annual weed that is commonly found in sandy soils. It has opposite leaves and produces small white flowers. Florida Pusley forms a low-growing mat and can quickly spread across lawns, particularly in areas that are not well-maintained.

This weed is particularly problematic in lawns that are mowed too short, as it can take advantage of the reduced competition from grass.

Florida Pusley can be difficult to control once established due to its prolific seed production and ability to regrow from stem fragments.

7. Goosegrass (Eleusine indica)

Goosegrass is a tough, wiry annual grass that is easily recognized by its flattened stems and white to greenish seed heads. It prefers compacted soils and is often found in high-traffic areas of lawns, such as along walkways and driveways.

The weed germinates in late spring and grows throughout the summer, forming dense clumps that can outcompete desirable lawn grasses. This weed is particularly problematic in lawns that are not aerated regularly, as it can take advantage of the compacted soil conditions.

8. Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule)

Henbit is a winter annual weed that is common in lawns and gardens. It has square stems, rounded, lobed leaves, and produces small, purple flowers. Henbit thrives in cool, moist conditions and often appears in lawns during the fall and winter months.

This grass weed spreads through seeds and creeping stems that root at the nodes, making it difficult to control once established. Henbit can form dense mats that crowd out desirable grasses, particularly in shaded or poorly drained areas.

9. Spurge (Euphorbia spp.)

Spurge is a low-growing annual weed with small, oval leaves and a milky sap that exudes from broken stems. It produces tiny, inconspicuous flowers and spreads rapidly through seeds. Spurge thrives in sunny, dry conditions and is often found in lawns mowed too short or under-fertilized.

This weed can form dense mats that outcompete lawn grasses, particularly in thin or bare areas of the lawn. The milky sap of spurge can be irritating to the skin, making it important to wear gloves when handling this weed.

Also read: How to Get Rid of Grass Burrs for Good

10. Chamberbitter (Phyllanthus urinaria)

Chamberbitter is a warm-season annual weed that is commonly found in lawns and gardens. It has small, mimosa-like leaves and produces tiny, greenish flowers along the undersides of the stems.

This common weed in Florida thrives in moist, fertile soils and spreads rapidly through seeds. This weed is particularly problematic in lawns that are not well-maintained, as it can quickly form dense mats that crowd out desirable grasses.

Chamberbitter is difficult to control once established due to its prolific seed production and ability to regrow from stem fragments.

11. Annual Bluegrass (Poa annua)

Annual Bluegrass is a winter annual grass that is common in lawns and gardens. It has light green blades and produces small, greenish seed heads. Annual Bluegrass thrives in cool, moist conditions and often appears in lawns during the fall and winter months.

This lawn weed spreads rapidly through seeds, forming dense clumps that outcompete desirable lawn grasses. Annual Bluegrass is particularly problematic in lawns mowed too short or under-fertilized, as it can take advantage of the reduced competition from grass.

12. Wild Violet (Viola spp.)  

Wild Violet is a perennial weed with heart-shaped leaves and small purple or white flowers. It spreads through seeds and creeping stems that root at the nodes. Wild Violet thrives in shaded, moist areas and can form dense mats that crowd out desirable lawn grasses.

The weed is particularly problematic in lawns that are not well-maintained, as it can quickly spread and become difficult to control once established. Wild Violet can be challenging to remove due to its deep, fibrous root system and ability to regrow from stem fragments.

13. Oxalis (Oxalis spp.)

Oxalis, also known as wood sorrel, is a low-growing perennial weed with trifoliate leaves that resemble clover and produce small, yellow flowers. It spreads through seeds and creeping stems that root at the nodes.

This lawn weed thrives in sunny, well-drained areas and can form dense mats that outcompete desirable lawn grasses. This weed is particularly problematic in lawns mowed too short or under-fertilized, as it can take advantage of the reduced competition from grass.

Oxalis can be difficult to control once established due to its prolific seed production and ability to regrow from stem fragments.

14. Yellow Nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus)

Yellow Nutsedge is a perennial weed that resembles grass but is actually a sedge. It has triangular stems and light green leaves, producing yellowish-brown seed heads.

The thrives in moist, poorly drained areas and spreads through tubers (nutlets) and rhizomes. This weed is particularly problematic in lawns with excessive irrigation or poor drainage, as it can quickly form dense clumps that outcompete desirable lawn grasses.

Yellow Nutsedge is difficult to control once established due to its deep root system and ability to regrow from tubers.

15. Virginia Buttonweed (Diodia virginiana)

Virginia Buttonweed is a perennial weed with opposite leaves, small white flowers, and a prostrate growth habit. It spreads through seeds and creeping stems that root at the nodes. Virginia Buttonweed thrives in moist, fertile soils and can form dense mats that crowd out desirable lawn grasses.

This weed is particularly problematic in lawns that are not well-maintained, as it can quickly spread and become difficult to control once established.

Virginia Buttonweed can be challenging to remove due to its deep, fibrous root system and ability to regrow from stem fragments.

Effective Ways How to Get Rid of Weeds in Florida Lawns

After identifying the common lawns you are likely to find in your Florida lawn, now is time to discuss how to get rid of weeds in Florida lawn effectively.

Proper Lawn Maintenance

Maintaining a healthy lawn is the first line of defense against weeds. A dense, well-maintained lawn can outcompete weeds for resources such as sunlight, water, and nutrients. Key lawn maintenance practices include:

• Regular Mowing: Mow your lawn at the appropriate height for your grass type. For example, St. Augustine grass should be mowed to a height of 3.5 to 4 inches. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade at a time to prevent stress.
• Adequate Watering: Water your lawn deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Overwatering can promote weed growth, especially in shady areas.
• Fertilization: Apply fertilizer based on soil test results to ensure your lawn receives the necessary nutrients. Over-fertilization can encourage weed growth, so follow recommended guidelines.

Use of Pre-Emergent Herbicides

Pre-emergent herbicides are a proactive approach to weed control. These herbicides create a barrier in the soil that prevents weed seeds from germinating. Apply pre-emergent herbicides in early spring and again in late summer to target both cool-season and warm-season weeds. Be sure to follow the product label instructions for best results.

Apply Post-Emergent Herbicides

For weeds that have already emerged, post-emergent herbicides (⬆) can be effective. These herbicides target specific types of weeds and can be selective or non-selective.

Selective herbicides target broadleaf or grassy weeds without harming your lawn, while non-selective herbicides kill any plant they come into contact with. Carefully read and follow the label instructions to avoid damaging your lawn.

Compare: How Often Can You Put Weed Killer on Your Lawn?

Remove the Weeds Manually

In some cases, manual weed removal may be necessary, especially for small infestations or in areas where herbicides are not appropriate.

Use a hand tool to remove weeds, making sure to extract the entire root system to prevent regrowth. This method can be time-consuming but effectively controls weeds in garden beds and other small areas.

Preventing Future Weed Infestations

Preventing weeds from taking hold in your lawn involves ongoing maintenance and monitoring. Here are some tips to keep your lawn weed-free:

• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around trees, shrubs, and flower beds to suppress weed growth. Mulch helps retain soil moisture and reduces the amount of light reaching weed seeds.
• Proper Irrigation: Avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage to prevent conditions that favor weed growth. Consider using a drip irrigation system to deliver water directly to the roots of your plants.
• Soil Health: Improve soil health by aerating compacted soil and adding organic matter. Healthy soil supports strong grass growth and reduces the likelihood of weed invasions.
• Regular Monitoring: Regularly inspect your lawn for signs of weed growth. Early detection and treatment can prevent small weed problems from becoming larger infestations.

How to Get Rid of Weeds in Florida Lawn FAQs

Q: What is the best time to apply pre-emergent herbicides in Florida?

A: The optimal time to apply pre-emergent herbicides in Florida is early spring (February to March) and again in late summer (August to September). This timing targets both cool-season and warm-season weeds before they have a chance to germinate.

Q: Can I use natural methods to control weeds in my Florida lawn?

A: Yes, natural methods such as mulching, manual weed removal, and maintaining a healthy lawn through proper mowing, watering, and fertilization can effectively control weeds. Additionally, corn gluten meal is a natural pre-emergent herbicide that can help prevent weed seeds from germinating.

Q: How can I prevent dollarweed in my lawn?

A: To prevent dollarweed, ensure your lawn has good drainage and avoid overwatering. Dollarweed thrives in moist, shady conditions, so improving sunlight exposure and soil drainage can reduce its presence. Applying a selective post-emergent herbicide specifically labeled for dollarweed can also help control existing infestations.

Q: Are there any weeds in Florida that can be harmful to pets or humans?

A: Yes, some weeds, such as sandspur, can cause discomfort to pets and humans due to their spiky seed heads. Additionally, spurge produces a milky sap that can cause skin irritation. Identifying and controlling these weeds is essential to ensure a safe environment for your family and pets.

Final Thoughts on How to Get Rid of Weeds in Florida Lawn

Understanding how to get rid of weeds in Florida lawn requires a combination of proper lawn maintenance, strategic use of herbicides, and preventive measures.

You can maintain a healthy, weed-free lawn by identifying common weeds and implementing effective control strategies.

Remember, a proactive approach to lawn care is the best defense against unwanted weeds, ensuring your Florida lawn remains lush and beautiful year-round.