Oxalis stricta
broadleaf weedUSDA zones 3–10Active: spring, summer, fallCommon perennial often confused with clover due to its trifoliate leaves. Produces small yellow flowers and explosive seed capsules that scatter seeds several feet.
Heart-shaped (not rounded) trifoliate leaves; small yellow 5-petaled flowers; upright seed pods that eject seeds when touched.
Pull before explosive seed capsules form. Bag all pulled material.
When: Pull in spring before seed pods mature
Thick turf prevents oxalis establishment. Overseed thin areas.
When: Ongoing turf management
Horticultural vinegar kills above-ground growth. May need repeat applications.
When: Apply on sunny days when plant is actively growing
Most effective selective herbicide for oxalis. Systemic action kills roots.
When: Apply in fall for best systemic activity
Active ingredient: Triclopyr — e.g. Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed Killer, Turflon Ester
Effective on yellow woodsorrel with residual control.
When: Apply when oxalis is actively growing
Active ingredient: Sulfentrazone — e.g. Dismiss
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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