Cardamine hirsuta
broadleaf weedUSDA zones 3–9Active: spring, winterWinter annual that germinates in fall and flowers very early in spring. Produces explosive seed pods that scatter seeds several feet.
Rosette of compound leaves with small rounded leaflets; tiny white 4-petaled flowers; narrow upright seed pods that pop open when touched.
Pull before explosive seed pods form. The pods can launch seeds several feet.
When: Pull in late winter/very early spring before pods mature
Fall overseeding prevents germination spaces for this winter annual.
When: Overseed in early fall
Post-emergent broadleaf herbicide controls emerged plants.
When: Apply in fall or early spring when actively growing
Active ingredient: 2,4-D — e.g. Trimec
Fall-applied pre-emergent prevents germination.
When: Apply in early fall before seeds germinate
Active ingredient: Isoxaben — e.g. Gallery
Grass safety: always match herbicides to your grass species — products safe on Kentucky bluegrass can kill St. Augustine or centipede. Lawn Guardian checks this automatically against your lawn profile.
Lawn Guardian turns this guidance into a schedule timed to your USDA zone and this week's actual weather — and adapts every time you log what you've done.
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