Virginia Buttonweed

Scientific Name:
Diodia virginiana
Common Names:
Virginia buttonweed, poorjoe, buttonweed
Family:
Rubiaceae
General Description:
Virginia buttonweed is a low-growing perennial with opposite leaves, white four-petaled flowers, and a deep taproot.
Related Weeds:
Large crabgrass, nutsedge, dollarweed

What is Virginia Buttonweed?

Virginia buttonweed is a troublesome perennial weed commonly found in lawns and landscapes across South Carolina. It thrives in moist, poorly drained areas but can adapt to various conditions. This weed forms dense, mat-like growth that can quickly outcompete desirable turfgrass. Virginia buttonweed has opposite, lance-shaped leaves with prominent veins. It produces small, white, four-petaled flowers from late spring through fall. The flowers can develop both above and below the soil surface, making control particularly challenging.

Controlling Virginia Buttonweed Growth:

There are four ways to control Virginia Buttonweed. We will break down the 4 ways with pros and cons of each control method.

Hand-pulling: This method can be effective for small infestations but is labor-intensive. Virginia buttonweed has a deep taproot, making complete removal difficult. Any root fragments left behind can regenerate new plants.
Cultural practices: Improving soil drainage and avoiding overwatering can help create conditions less favorable for Virginia buttonweed. Maintaining a healthy, dense lawn through proper mowing, fertilization, and irrigation can also help prevent infestations. However, these practices alone may not eliminate established buttonweed.
Spraying with post-emergent herbicides: Selective herbicides can be effective in controlling Virginia buttonweed, but multiple applications are often necessary. This method requires persistence and proper timing for best results. Care must be taken to avoid damaging desirable turfgrass.
Integrated approach: The most effective control strategy combines cultural practices, mechanical removal, and targeted herbicide applications. At Turf Boss, we develop customized, integrated plans to manage Virginia buttonweed and prevent its spread.

At Turf Boss, our expert team understands the complexities of Virginia buttonweed control. We offer comprehensive lawn care services designed to eliminate this persistent weed and maintain a healthy, lush lawn.

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Core Services

8 Application Fertilization & Weed Control for Zoysia

8 Application Fertilization & Weed Control for Bermuda

8 Application Fertilization & Weed Control for Fescue

*** We only offer fertilization and weed control packages that we know will be successful. In Upstate, South Carolina that is a 8 application a year program for both warm and cool turf grass.

Add On Services

Aerating (Warm Turf)

Aerating & Overseeding (Fescue)

Flower Bed Weed Control

Grub Control

Soil Softening Application

Lime

Army Worms (Pre & Post Treatment)

1 Year Guarantee Fire Ant Control

Shrub Fertilization

Mosquito Control