Dichondra, also called ponysfoot, can plague lawns with its creeping stems and small, fan-shaped leaves. Unlike desirable grass, dichondra lies nearly flat, hugging the ground.
Its ability to tolerate mowing allows it to gradually overwhelm lawns. Preventing dichondra invasion requires proactive lawn management. Removing existing growth involves physical uprooting and chemical control.
Improving lawn health through best care practices further discourages dichondra infestations. With persistence and an integrated approach, dichondra in lawn are easy to control for a lush, weed-free lawn.
Identifying Dichondra
Learn to spot dichondra based on its growth form and leaf shape. Unlike upright grass blades, dichondra stems creep along the soil, rooting at nodes. Its small, rounded, fan-shaped leaves look similar to clover.
Dichondra thrives in damp, shady lawns that don’t favor vigorous grass growth. Overwatering and excessive shade provide ideal conditions for infestation. Dichondra tolerates mowing, allowing it to gradually displace weakened grass.
Check lawns closely in spring and fall when dichondra growth peaks. Probe suspected areas to reveal spreading stems and roots. Compared to desirable grass, dichondra stems feel tough and wiry. Early identification allows prompt control before extensive invasion.
Removing Established Dichondra
Eliminate small patches of dichondra by carefully digging out stems, runners and roots. Use a knife or tool to sever spreading roots. Remove every piece, as fragments left behind easily re-root.
For larger areas, apply broadleaf herbicides containing triclopyr, dicamba or 2,4-D. Spot treat weedy patches instead of blanketing the whole lawn. Follow label instructions carefully.
Herbicides may require multiple applications to fully kill dichondra. Time treatments when grass is dormant to avoid harm. Aerating before applying herbicides improves penetration.
Combine chemical control with dethatching to expose and remove dichondra roots and runners. Whether using manual or chemical removal, be persistent. Removing all traces prevents dichondra from recolonizing treated areas.
Encouraging Healthy Grass
The best defense against dichondra is a thick, vigorous lawn that leaves no room for weeds. Promote grass health through proper mowing, fertilizing, aerating and watering.
Maintain sharp mower blades set to cut grass no shorter than 3 inches. This optimal height strengthens grass plants. Fertilize moderately in early fall and spring with balanced turf-grade products.
Aerate compacted areas to improve air and nutrient circulation to roots. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep rooting rather than shallow dichondra roots.
Allow grass to dry between watering. Promptly fill in and reseed bare or thinning spots where weeds can gain foothold. Follow these best practices to grow lush grass that resists invasion.
Adjusting Soil Conditions
Modify soil composition to favor healthy grass over dichondra. Test pH and adjust to match target levels for your turfgrass type. Excess acidity benefits dichondra more than grass.
Improve drainage of chronically wet, compacted clay by topdressing with compost. Or amend with gypsum to loosen heavy soils. Avoid excessive moisture conducive to worms in my lawn.
Let soil dry slightly between watering. Mulch grass clippings to return nitrogen. Add lime and micronutrients if soil tests indicate deficiencies. Discourage moss, a sign of compacted, acidic, poor-draining soil.
Targeting ideal soil conditions removes environmental factors benefiting dichondra, letting your lawn flourish instead.
Altering Environmental Factors
Reduce conditions favoring dichondra like dense shade, poor air flow and excessive moisture. If possible, trim overhanging branches or trees to open the canopy and boost sunlight.
Improve airflow circulation by thinning dense surrounding vegetation. Remove or redirect downspouts to prevent puddling and soggy spots. Grade lawn areas to promote surface runoff and drainage.
Reduce irrigation if fungal issues indicate excessive dampness. Allow grass to dry between watering rather than keeping constantly wet. Minimize dew by avoiding late-day watering.
Conclusion
With responsible lawn care and early intervention against invasion, dichondra can be successfully eliminated from lawns. Removing existing growth along with preventative management tailored to improve grass vigor provides lasting control.
Adjust conditions to favor your desired turfgrass rather than this stubborn weed. Stay attentive to spot any re-emerging dichondra promptly. A thick, healthy lawn is the best defense against weedy pests seeking to undermine it.
Your efforts will cultivate a lush, dichondra-free lawn for enjoyment. Remove moss and thatch buildup to discourage damp. Adjusting environmental factors to favor vigorous grass growth creates an inhospitable habitat for dichondra.
