How to Identify, Prevent, and Control Virginia Buttonweed in Your Lawn

Virginia buttonweed (Diodia virginiana) is a creeping, perennial weed that can choke out desired turfgrass. Common across the Southeast—including Louisiana and Virginia—this guide outlines how homeowners can identify, prevent, and eradicate buttonweed for a lush, healthy lawn.

What Is Virginia Buttonweed?

• Appearance: Small, four-petaled white flowers; opposite leaves in clusters of four; stems that root at nodes.

• Habitat: Prefers shaded, moist areas with compacted soil—look under trees, downspouts, and garden beds.

Why Buttonweed Is a Problem

• Spreads quickly via creeping stems, forming dense mats that outcompete grass.

• Thrives in moist, improperly drained lawns, especially in warm seasons.

Step-by-Step Control Guide

1. Cultural Practices (Prevention)

• Improve drainage by aerating compacted zones.

• Manage shade: trim overhanging branches to enhance turf vigor.

• Maintain a dense, healthy turf—fertilize and overseed bare patches.

2. Manual Removal

• Hand-pull when patches are small; remove entire root-stem system.

• Dispose carefully (do not compost) to avoid spreading.

3. Herbicide Treatments

• Selective post-emergent controls: Use herbicides with metsulfuron-methyl or triclopyr, effective on broadleaf weeds like buttonweed.

• Spot-spray: Apply when actively growing (late spring to early fall); follow label for rates, protective gear, and overseeding intervals.

• Pre-emergent options: Offer limited control—better to rely on post-emergent products.

4. Follow-Up Measures

• Monitor for regrowth weekly and retreat as needed.

• Reapply herbicide per product schedule; cultural control keeps turf healthy and weed-free.

When to Call a Pro

Need help? Our Northshore lawn experts offer full-service solutions:

• Soil testing for compaction and pH balance

• Customized herbicide programs

• Ongoing lawn health monitoring

Call Emerald Landscapes today for a free lawn audit.