WEED ID · PERENNIAL BROADLEAF
Virginia buttonweed
Also called Buttonweed, large buttonweed, poor Joe
A tough, creeping weed that loves wet spots. Pulling it can leave pieces behind that grow back.
How to spot it
- Shiny, dark green, lance-shaped leaves in pairs on the stem
- Leaves have no stalks
- Small white flowers with four petals, shaped like a star
- Creeping stems that root at the joints
- Thickest in wet, poorly drained spots
Why it shows up
Virginia buttonweed does best in poorly drained or overly wet lawns, from heavy rain or too much irrigation. It spreads by underground stems and by stem pieces. Mowing and trimming can move those pieces around.
How we treat it
Virginia buttonweed is one of the tougher weeds, so it takes repeat visits. We spot treat with a product labeled for your grass type, and spring green-up is when new growth is easiest to hit. We also fertilize to thicken the turf.
What you can do
- Do not pull it. Pieces of root and stem left behind can sprout again.
- Water deep and less often so the surface can dry between waterings.
- Core aeration can help soggy, compacted spots.
WANT IT HANDLED?
Let a licensed applicator take it from here.
Tell us about your lawn. We’ll get back to you with a free quote.
Prefer to talk? 817-382-1722Licensed applicator, Texas Department of Agriculture · License #0984138