Weed of the Month: Woodsorrel

Woodsorrel or oxalis is a cool season annual perennial native to North America. In warmer areas like Florida, it is a perennial and can be found throughout the state. If you spot it in your yard, you might think it to be clover. Closer inspection will reveal three heart shaped leaves, which is a key characteristic of woodsorrel. Five petaled yellow flowers adorn the plant when it blooms. Woodsorrel has a unique way of seeding. Small pods that resemble okra contain seeds that are expelled explosively when touched. This method of propagation works well as seeds can be dispersed up to thirteen feet away and have high germination rates. Woodsorrel prefers moist soil, but isn’t too picky about where it grows. Hand pulling will only work early on and you need to make sure the roots and rhizomes are removed. Be sure to properly dispose of removed material any seeds left behind will germinate. Once it has established, you’ll need to rely on preemergent and postemergence herbicides.