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Prostrate
knotweed: Polygonum aviculare |
Prostrate knotweed is an annual, common along
sidewalks in turf or wherever turf is stressed and less vigorous. It thrives in dry,
compacted soils or wherever there is excessive foot traffic. The plant forms a tough, wiry
mat of stems and leaves. To differentiate from spurge, a broken stem does not produce a
milky sap.
Flowers are small, white, and inconspicuous. They
are found where the leaf meets the stem. This weed produces many seeds.
Annual core aeration in spring and/or fall will
reduce knotweed infestation.
Control
Pre-emergent herbicides can be effective if applied
in late fall/winter (knotweed can germinate in Feb or March). Post-emergent herbicides are
mostly ineffective after plants become larger. 2,4-D and 2,4-D combinations will give fair
control when applied to younger plants.
Photograph courtesy of Judy Sedbrook.
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