Ridding a Lawn of Creeping Oxalis

Although oxalis, (Oxalis corniculata), also known as wood sorrel, looks similar to clover, oxalis grows from roots that look like small, white radishes. Oxalis blooms may be purple, yellow or white, depending on the variety. Each flower contains a seed pod that when ripe, can burst and expel the sticky seeds several feet. New oxalis plants also grow from stems that grow on the surface of the ground. Because oxalis is a perennial plant that returns every year, controlling an infestation in your lawn is a difficult task that requires persistence.

Lawn fertilizer
Herbicide
Sprayer

Instructions

- 1
  Take care of your lawn, as oxalis has a harder time establishing a foothold in healthy grass. Water your lawn regularly, especially during the summer months.
- 2
  Feed your lawn, using a lawn fertilizer with a ratio such as 15-10-15, which means that the amounts of nitrogen and potassium are balanced. Apply the fertilizer according to the directions on the package.
- 3
  Pull new oxalis plants as soon as you spot them in your lawn or garden. Pulling usually won't control a serious infestation, but is a good way to slow its progress, control small outbreaks, and prevent the plants from becoming established.
- 4
  Spray serious infestations of oxalis with a herbicide as soon as the oxalis is actively growing in spring. Inquire at a greenhouse or garden center about herbicides that specifically formulated for controlling weeds such as oxalis, while leaving your lawn unharmed. Use the herbicide strictly according to package directions.

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