Carpetweed (Mollugo verticillata). Photo: Debra Ricigliano
Carpetweed is a non-native summer annual broadleaf weed that spreads by seed. Seeds begin to germinate as soils begin to warm in early spring and continue to germinate throughout the growing season. The weed is low-growing and forms a circular mat of growth. Produces small white flowers at the leaf axils in mid-to-late summer. Has smooth leaves that are light green in color.
Maintain healthy, dense turf that can compete and prevent weed establishment.
Hand pulling or using an appropriate weeding tool work well for removing this weed. This is a viable option at the beginning of an infestation and on young weeds. Hand pulling when the soil is moist makes the task easier.
Manage Weeds Without Chemicals
If you choose this option, spot treat weeds with a liquid, selective, postemergent, broadleaf weed killer applied when weeds are actively growing. Look for a product with one or more of the following active ingredients: 2, 4-D, MCPP (mecoprop), Dicamba*, or Triclopyr.
*Do not spray herbicides containing dicamba over the root zone of trees and shrubs. Roots can absorb the product possibly causing plant damage. Refer to the product label for precautions.
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