7 Florida Lawn Weeds That Are Silently Killing Your Grass (and How to Stop Them)

Florida’s warm, humid climate is ideal for a lush, green lawn, but it’s also the perfect environment for various types of  Florida lawn weeds. From the northern panhandle to the southern tip, homeowners and lawn care professionals across the Sunshine State face the ongoing challenge of controlling these pesky invaders. Whatever you’re dealing with, understanding how to identify and effectively manage these unwanted plants is key to maintaining a healthy, attractive lawn. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the most common weed species found in Florida lawns, discuss why they’re so difficult to control, and provide expert tips and strategies for keeping your turf weed-free year-round.  

Lawn weeds are difficult to get rid of

One of the main reasons lawn weeds are so challenging to eliminate is their remarkable adaptability. Many weed species have evolved over time to thrive in the same conditions as turfgrass, making them fierce competitors for essential resources like water, nutrients, and space. Weeds are often fast-growing and can quickly spread through various means, such as seed dispersal, creeping stolons, or underground rhizomes. Once established, they can be extremely difficult to eradicate without the right knowledge and tools.

Another factor that makes weed control so tricky is the fact that many species produce numerous seeds that can lay dormant in the soil for years, waiting for the right conditions to germinate and start the cycle anew[ 1]. Even if you successfully remove all visible weeds from your lawn, there may be countless seeds hidden beneath the surface, ready to sprout at the first opportunity. This is why a one-time treatment is rarely sufficient for long-term weed control; ongoing management and vigilance are essential to keep these persistent invaders at bay.

Least invasive lawn weeds

While all weeds can be a nuisance, some species are considered less aggressive or easier to control than others. Here are a few of the least invasive   Florida lawn weeds   you may encounter:

1.   Black Medic ( Medicago lupulina ) : This low-growing, clover-like weed has small, rounded trifoliate leaves and tiny yellow flowers. It’s an annual plant that tends to appear in the cooler months and is relatively easy to control with proper mowing and targeted herbicide applications[ 2].

2.   Lespedeza ( Lespedeza striata ) : Also known as Japanese clover, this warm-season annual has small, trifoliate leaves and purple flowers. It’s less aggressive than many other weed species and can often be managed with regular mowing and spot-treating with selective herbicides[ 3].

3.   Carpetweed ( Mollugo verticillata ) : This low-growing, mat-forming annual has small, oval leaves and tiny white flowers. It’s commonly found in thin, poorly maintained lawns and can be controlled through hand-pulling, proper cultural practices, and post-emergent herbicides[ 4].

4.   Florida Pusley ( Richardia scabra ) : Also called Mexican clover or rough Mexican clover, this low-growing annual has hairy stems and leaves with small white flowers. While it can spread quickly in sunny areas, it’s relatively easy to control with regular mowing and targeted herbicide applications[ 5].

5.   Asiatic Hawksbeard ( Youngia japonica ) : This cool-season annual has a basal rosette of leaves and small, dandelion-like yellow flowers on thin stems. It’s less competitive than many other winter weeds and can often be managed through proper lawn maintenance practices and spot-treating with broadleaf herbicides[ 6].

Most invasive lawn weeds

On the other end of the spectrum, some   Florida lawn weeds   are notorious for their aggressive growth habits and resilience, making them extremely difficult to control once established. Here are some of the most problematic weeds you may encounter:

1.   Dollarweed ( Hydrocotyle spp. ) : This perennial broadleaf weed has round, slightly cupped leaves that resemble small lily pads. It thrives in moist, poorly drained soils and spreads rapidly via creeping stems (stolons) and underground rhizomes, forming dense mats that can choke out desirable turfgrass. Dollarweed is resistant to many common herbicides, making it a challenging weed to eradicate[ 7].

2.   Torpedograss ( Panicum repens ) : Considered one of the world’s most invasive grasses, torpedograss is a perennial weed that forms dense, mat-like stands in lawns and landscapes. It has narrow, pointed leaf blades and an extensive rhizome system that allows it to spread aggressively, even in drought conditions. Once established, torpedograss is extremely difficult to control due to its deep, resilient rhizomes and resistance to many herbicides[ 8].

3.   Chamberbitter ( Phyllanthus urinaria ) : This warm-season annual has small, oblong leaves arranged along reddish stems and inconspicuous green flowers. It thrives in moist, disturbed soils and can produce thousands of seeds per plant, allowing it to spread rapidly throughout lawns and landscapes. Chamberbitter is difficult to control once mature, as it becomes resistant to many post-emergent herbicides[ 9].

4.   Florida Betony ( Stachys floridana ) : Also known as rattlesnake weed or hedgenettle, this perennial broadleaf weed has square stems, toothed leaves, and small pink to purple flowers. It reproduces via seeds and underground tubers, which can persist in the soil for years and sprout new plants even after the visible weed is removed. Florida betony is challenging to control due to its extensive tuber system and resistance to many herbicides[ 10].

5.   Doveweed ( Murdannia nudiflora ) : This warm-season annual grass has narrow, glossy leaves and small, three-petaled purple flowers. It thrives in moist, fertile soils and spreads via seeds and rooting stems, forming dense patches that can quickly overtake thin or stressed lawns. Doveweed is difficult to control with cultural practices alone and often requires repeated applications of specialized herbicides for effective management[ 11].

Lawn weeds in Florida by location

While many weed species can be found throughout the state, some tend to be more prevalent in certain regions due to differences in climate, soil type, and lawn management practices. Here’s a closer look at common lawn weeds based on location:

Northern Florida lawn weeds

In the panhandle and northern part of the state, cool-season weeds are more common due to the region’s milder winters and occasional freezing temperatures. Some prevalent   northwest Florida lawn weeds   include:

1.   Annual Bluegrass ( Poa annua ) : This clumping winter annual has narrow leaf blades and small, greenish-white flower heads. It’s a common weed in dormant warm-season lawns and can be difficult to control once established[ 12].

2.   Henbit ( Lamium amplexicaule ) : A winter annual with square stems, rounded toothed leaves, and small purple flowers. It often appears in thin or bare spots in lawns and can be managed with proper cultural practices and timely pre-emergent herbicide applications[ 13].

3.   Common Chickweed ( Stellaria media ) : A low-growing, mat-forming winter annual with small, oval leaves and tiny white flowers. It thrives in cool, moist conditions and can be controlled through hand-pulling, proper mowing, and targeted herbicide applications[ 14].

Central Florida lawn weeds

In the central part of the state, warm-season weeds are more prevalent due to the region’s hot, humid summers and mild winters. Some common   lawn weeds in central Florida   include:

1.   Spotted Spurge ( Euphorbia maculata ) : A low-growing summer annual with small, oval leaves often marked with a dark spot in the center. It produces a milky sap when broken and can spread quickly in thin or stressed lawns. Spotted spurge can be controlled through hand-pulling, proper cultural practices, and post-emergent herbicides[ 15].

2.   Chamberbitter ( Phyllanthus urinaria ) : As mentioned earlier, this warm-season annual is a problematic weed throughout Florida, particularly in the central and southern regions. Its ability to produce numerous seeds and resistance to many herbicides make it a challenging weed to control[ 9].

3.   Doveweed ( Murdannia nudiflora ) : Another warm-season annual that thrives in the hot, humid conditions of central and southern Florida. Its fast growth and ability to spread via seeds and stems make it a difficult weed to manage without targeted herbicide applications[ 11].

Southern Florida lawn weeds

In the tropical climate of southern Florida, warm-season grasses and broadleaf weeds are the primary invaders in lawns and landscapes. Some of the most problematic   south Florida grass weeds   include:

1.   Goosegrass ( Eleusine indica ) : A clumping summer annual with flattened stems and narrow, dark green leaves. It thrives in compacted soils and can quickly spread via seeds, forming unsightly patches in lawns. Goosegrass is best controlled through proper cultural practices and timely pre-emergent herbicide applications[ 16].

2.   Crabgrass ( Digitaria spp. ) : A spreading summer annual with wide, light green leaves and finger-like seed heads. It germinates in late spring and can quickly take over thin or stressed lawns. Crabgrass can be managed through proper mowing, irrigation, and fertilization practices, as well as timely pre-emergent herbicide applications[ 17].

3.   Alexandergrass ( Brachiaria plantaginea ) : A fast-growing summer annual with wide, lance-shaped leaves and a distinctive seed head that resembles a bottlebrush. It thrives in hot, humid conditions and can quickly overtake thin or stressed lawns. Alexandergrass is difficult to control once established and often requires repeated applications of specialized herbicides for effective management[ 18].

How to get rid of lawn weeds in Florida

Effectively controlling weeds in Florida lawns requires a multi-faceted approach that combines proper cultural practices with targeted herbicide applications. Here are some key strategies to help you achieve a healthy, weed-free lawn:

1.   Maintain a healthy, dense lawn:

One of the best ways to prevent weed invasions is to promote a thick, vigorous stand of turfgrass that can outcompete weeds for space, water, and nutrients. This involves following proper mowing, irrigation, and fertilization practices for your specific grass type. Mow at the recommended height and frequency, water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth, and apply fertilizer based on soil test results and your grass’s nutritional needs. A healthy, dense lawn is more resilient to weed infestations and other stressors[ 19].

2.   Apply pre-emergent herbicides:

Pre-emergent herbicides are designed to prevent weed seeds from germinating, making them a critical tool in proactive weed control. The key to success with pre-emergents is proper timing. In Florida, apply them in early spring (February to March) for summer annual weeds and early fall (October to November) for winter annuals. Be sure to choose a product that’s labeled for your specific turfgrass species and follow all application instructions carefully. Keep in mind that pre-emergents will not control existing weeds, so they must be applied before weed seeds germinate[ 20].

3.   Spot-treat with post-emergent herbicides:

For weeds that have already emerged, post-emergent herbicides are the most effective control method. However, it’s essential to choose the right product for the specific weed you’re targeting and your turfgrass species. Carefully read the label to ensure the herbicide is safe for your lawn and follow all mixing and application instructions. Spot-treat individual weeds or small patches rather than broadcasting herbicide over the entire lawn to minimize damage to desirable turfgrass. Be patient, as some weeds may require multiple applications for complete control[ 21].

4.   Hand-pull or spot-treat perennial weeds:

Perennial weeds with extensive root systems, like dollarweed or torpedograss, can be particularly challenging to control. In addition to spot-treating with a non-selective systemic herbicide like glyphosate, hand-pulling or digging out these weeds can help reduce their populations over time. Be sure to remove as much of the root system as possible to prevent regrowth, and monitor the area regularly for new sprouts[ 22].

5.   Persistence and patience:

Successfully managing weeds in Florida lawns is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and attention. No single method will provide complete, long-term control, so it’s important to use a combination of cultural practices and targeted herbicide applications throughout the year. Be patient and persistent, as it may take multiple seasons of diligent management to achieve a truly weed-free lawn. 

At Council Oxford, we understand the unique challenges of controlling   Florida lawn weeds  . Our team of experienced professionals is here to provide expert guidance and top-quality products to help you cultivate a lush, healthy lawn. Whatever you’re dealing with , we have the knowledge and tools to develop a customized weed control plan for your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve the lawn of your dreams!

[ 1]: University of Florida IFAS Extension. “Weed Management Guide for Florida Lawns.” Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep141

[ 2]: Trenholm, Laurie E. “Black Medic.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.uf.edu/publication/ep391

[ 3]: Unruh, J. Bryan. “Lespedeza.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep397

[ 4]: Marble, Chris. “Carpetweed.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep575

[ 5]: Marble, Chris. “Florida Pusley.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep574

[ 6]: Marble, Chris. “Asiatic Hawksbeard.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep576 

[ 7]: Samples, Tom, and Jake Samples. “Dollarweed.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep387

[ 8]: University of Florida Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants. “Torpedograss.” Accessed June 6, 2023. https://plants.ifas.ufl.edu/plant-directory/panicum-repens/

[ 9]: Marble, Chris. “Chamberbitter.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep577

[ 10]: Marble, Chris. “Florida Betony.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep388

[ 11]: Marble, Chris. “Doveweed.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep583

[ 12]: Unruh, J. Bryan, and David Yates. “Annual Bluegrass.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP392

[ 13]: Trenholm, Laurie E. “Henbit.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep395

[ 14]: Trenholm, Laurie E. “Common Chickweed.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep394

[ 15]: Marble, Chris. “Spotted Spurge.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep396

[ 16]: Trenholm, Laurie E., and Ramon Leon. “Goosegrass.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ep404

[ 17]: Trenholm, Laurie E., and J. Bryan Unruh. “Crabgrass.” University