Dichondra repens is a common invasive weed that can be found in many lawns and gardens. It is a prostrate, perennial herbaceous plant with bright green leaves that spreads rapidly and can quickly become a problem in lawns and gardens if left unchecked.
In order to prevent Dichondra repens from becoming an issue in your lawn or garden, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure your turf is well maintained. This includes mowing your lawn regularly, watering it deeply but infrequently, and fertilizing it with a balanced fertilizer. Additionally, make sure to remove any weeds that appear as soon as possible before they spread.
If you have noticed Dichondra repens growing in your lawn or garden, there are sevral ways to get rid of it. One option is to use a quality herbicide like Celsius WG in the late spring when the weeds are smaller and younger. Herbicides are less effective the older and more mature the weed gets so it’s important to act quickly. Another option is to physically remove the weed by hand or with a hoe or shovel. However, this method may not be effective for larger infestations as some roots may remain in the soil.
It’s also important to note that Dichondra repens does not choke out other plants – instead, it will spread quickly and hardily when planted in the late spring or early fall (in warm climates, the plant may continue to grow through the winter). As such, it’s important to take steps to ensure your turf is well maintained so as not to be overrun by this fast-spreading weed.
By following these tips for preventing and removing Dichondra repens from your lawn or garden, you can keep this pesky invasive weed at bay!
Stopping the Spread of Dichondra
The best way to stop dichondra from spreading is to target the weed when it is still young and small. Late spring is the ideal time to apply a quality herbicide like Celsius WG, as it will be more effective on younger weeds. When applying herbicides, be sure to follow all directions on the label for best results. Additionally, it can help keep weeds from spreading by removing any unwanted plants by hand before they have a chance to go to seed. Mowing regularly also helps keep weeds from growing too tall and going to seed. Finally, make sure that any areas with existing dichondra are thoroughly watered before applying herbicides, as dry soil can reduce thir effectiveness.
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Will Dichondra Invade My Lawn?
No, dichondra will not take over your lawn if it is well maintained. However, it can be a problem in weak or thin turf, so it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure your lawn is healthy and strong. Start by regularly mowing, watering and fertilizing your lawn according to its specific needs. It’s also important to remove weeds from your lawn as they can compete with grass for nutrients and water. If you find that dichondra is spreading in your lawn, remove it by hand or use a post-emergent herbicide.
Does Dichondra Spread?
Yes, dichondra is an aggressive spreader when planted in the late spring or early fall. This plant can quickly take over an area with its hardy and vigorous growth. In warm climates, it may continue to grow through the winter. Be aware that if left unchecked, dichondra can overtake other nearby plants and grasses.
Getting Rid of Dichondra in the Garden
Dichondra is a common weed that can be difficult to get rid of in a garden or lawn. The best way to get rid of dichondra is to use an herbicide specifically designed for the weed. Typically, selective herbicides are used, as they will target the dichondra and not other plants in your garden. For best results, apply the herbicide when the plants are actively growing and follow label instructions carefully. Additionally, you may need to repeat applications seeral times over the course of several weeks to ensure all of the weeds have been killed. Manual removal can also help by pulling out any remaining plants that resist treatment with herbicides.
Does Dichondra Have Deep Roots?
No, dichondra does not have deep roots. Dichondra plants tend to have shallow root systems that spread out laterally in the soil. The roots of dichondra are typically no more than a few inches deep. This means that your container for growing dichondra can be fairly shallow, and you’ll need to replant when the plant spreads out and appears crowded.
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Trimming Dichondra: Is it Necessary?
Yes, trimming your dichondra is recommended to keep it looking its best. To properly trim your plant, begin by removing any dead or damaged leaves and stems. Then, uing a pair of sharp scissors or shears, carefully trim the stems and leaves back to the desired height and shape. Be sure to take off no more than one-third of the plant’s total foliage at one time. Additionally, avoid cutting too close to the base of the stem, as this can damage the roots and stop new growth from forming. Trimming your dichondra regularly will help it maintain its attractive form and promote healthy growth.
Depth of Dichondra Root Growth
Dichondra roots are shallow and fibrous, typically growing to a depth of 6-12 inches. This is much shallower than other types of grass and makes dichondra a great choice for low growing ground cover or as an alternative to a traditional lawn. Dichondra grows best in sunny and lightly shaded areas, so it’s well-suited to many outdoor environments.
Does Dichondra Attract Bees?
No, dichondra does not typically attract bees. While the silvery foliage produces dainty daisy-like flowers in the summer, bees tend to ignore it. Additionally, although it is drought-tolerant and can thrive in full sun or partial shade, it cannot withstand heavy foot traffic.
Mowing Dichondra Repens
No, you cannot mow Dichondra repens. This drought-tolerant, evergreen groundcover is usually grown to a height of 10-15cm and does not need to be mowed. The spreading foliage of Dichondra repens creates a lush carpet-like effect, making it an ideal choice for erosion control and weed suppression in lawns. In fact, frequent mowing may actually damage the delicate foliage of this plant, so it should be avoided whenever possible.
The Spread of Dichondra Repens
Dichondra repens spreads by the development of underground runners, which are stem-like structures that grow horizontally below the soil surface. The runners gradually extend outward and then form new plants in their wake. Over time, this process allows Dichondra repens to colonize large areas, with mature plants typically spaced between 10-20 cm apart. As the new plants establish themselves and begin to spread further away from the original plant, they develop additional runners which help to create an interconnected network of plants.
How Long Does it Take for Dichondra to Spread?
Once established, dichondra can spread quickly and easily. As the plant starts to grow runners, it will take approximately 7-14 days for the seedlings to emerge. With regular weeding and care, the plant can spread rapidly over time. It is best to keep an eye on the growth of your dichondra and be prepared to weed as needed in order to keep it healthy and spreading properly.
Spacing Requirements for Planting Dichondra Repens
When planting Dichondra repens, it is important to keep the plants spaced 25-30 cm apart. This will ensure that the roots have enough room to spread out and the plants are able to receive an adequate amount of sunlight. Make sure that when you plant each one, the plant is at the same level as it was in the pot and that you dig a hole at least twice the size of the pot. By following these steps, you can help ensure your Dichondra repens will thrive!
Does Dichondra Remain Green Throughout the Year?
No, dichondra typically remains green all year in warmer climates, but will experience some leaf browning if exposed to temperatures below 20-25 degrees Fahrenheit. However, even with leaf browning the dichondra will still retain its striking green color overall. Dichondra produces broad, almost circular leaves that look similar to clover and can be mowed low for a thick, dense carpet effect.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, dichondra repens is an invasive weed that can spread quickly and hardily in warm climates. It is important to stop the spread of this weed by taking the necessary steps to maintain a strong lawn. Applying a quality herbicide like Celsius WG in the late spring, when the weeds are young and smaller, can help reduce and manage an infestation of dichondra repens. Taking these preventative measures will help protect your lawn from this invasive weed and keep it looking beautiful all season long.
