Virginia Buttonweed is a broadleaf weed that can quickly spread throughout a lawn during the summer months. Prominent in the Southeast but found in many states across the US, Virginia Buttonweed can be difficult to remove once it grows due to its extensive root system.
The best way to stop Virginia Buttonweed from growing in your lawn is to prevent it from germinating in the first place.
Learn more below.
Improve Lawn Conditions
Virginia Buttonweed thrives in moist, wet soil and thin turf. By addressing drainage issues in your lawn, mowing the turf higher for several weeks, watering less frequently, and overseeding thin areas, you can improve the overall health of your lawn and prevent many different weeds and diseases in addition to Virginia Buttonweed.
We also suggest aerating, dethatching (if needed), and fertilizing your lawn to ensure it is as healthy as possible. DoMyOwn's Warm Season Lawn Care Schedule will walk you through these steps and when to take them for optimal results.
Apply a Pre-Emergent Herbicide for Overall Weed Control
Most pre-emergent herbicides on the market are not designed to completely control Virginia Buttonweed. Results can be inconsistent. We still suggest applying a pre-emergent herbicide to stop other weeds from forming, but know that Virginia Buttonweed may still emerge. Applying a post-emergent herbicide on the new weeds will be the best way to fully control the weed.
If you cannot find a pre-emergent labeled for Virginia Buttonweed, select a pre-emergent that treats for broadleaf weeds. You may still see Virginia Buttonweed grow, but most other weeds will not, making the post-emergent herbicide application easier.
Apply after the last frost of the winter but before soil temperatures reach 55 degrees or warmer.
Products needed for Step 2
Think you have Virginia Buttonweed? Learn how to identify Virginia Buttonweed, inspect the places it grows, or get rid of Virginia Buttonweed.
If you believe you have a lawn weed that is not Virginia Buttonweed, check out our weed guides for additional assistance.