Lawn & Turf Tips:  Purslane

Purslane

Description

Purslane

Purslane is a succulent that thrives in hot, dry weather; it is seldom found in the spring when the lawn is being treated for other weeds.  It grows vigorously, forming a thick mat.  The small yellow flowers open only in full sun June-October. 

Conditions

Purslane primarily invades bare spots in lawns or thin lawns that have not been watered properly.  Purslane stores water in its thick fleshy stems and leaves; therefore, it survives longer tha n grass during dry weather.

Cultural Control

Hoe or hand pull and remove plant debris.  Use mulch in landscaped areas.  Maintain a well watered, properly fertilized and thick lawn to prevent these weeds from taking a hold in your lawn.  Do not cut lawn too short.

Chemical Control

Treat in early spring, during flowering; whenever weed is actively growing with 2,4-D and cecoprop..  Pre-emergence in Sept.-Oct. Wait 3-4 weeks after a treatment before seeding bare areas.

Comments

Hard to control.