How to Identify a Broadleaf Weed

Dozens of broadleaf weed varieties exist, but it only takes one kind -- dandelions, for example -- to take root in your lawn or garden and overrun your turf or flowers and vegetables. To stop that, you need to be able to identify broadleaf weeds. Look for plants with wide leaves that are flat and generally grow in pairs or multiples. They have deep roots, which must be removed once the plants are established, to prevent their proliferation.

Instructions

- 1
  Take a close look at the stem, which sets broadleaf weeds apart from other grass-like types of weeds. Look to see whether the stem is stiff, meanders close to the ground, has a milky or fleshy quality, or has a vine-like character, which all are indicative of broadleaf weeds.
- 2
  Look at the leaf, which is one of the best indicators in determining whether the plant is a broadleaf weed. Check for small hairs, keeping in mind that young leaves can look different than mature leaves, which grow flat and more prominently.
- 3
  Examine a leaf, which may grow directly opposite of another leaf or alternate along the stem, and observe whether there are branching or net-like veins. Watch for notched or jagged edges.
- 4
  Look for flowers on the plant, which many broadleaf weeds have. Notice if the plant is growing in areas where you have not seeded flowers, or where your lawn is thin, which can be indicative of a broadleaf weed.
- 5
  Grab the plant by its base near the ground and uproot it. Check for a fan-like root system and a thick, long taproot.

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