Herbicides to Kill Common Lespedeza

Common lespedeza (Lespedeza striata) is a warm-weather grass with permeable roots having the potential to deplete soil of nutrients necessary to develop grass and other landscape plants. Lespedeza can be managed with herbicides, but any chemical control ought to be undertaken with strict adherence to manufacturer instructions to prevent unnecessary exposure. Which herbicide is most effective will depend on the growing season as well as the surrounding plants that you would like to preserve.

Selecting Herbicides

If you’re hoping to prevent a lespedeza issue, then the a preemergence herbicide that prevents seed germination is a suitable choice. Preemergence herbicide must be applied in early spring when soils maintain a temperature between 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are reacting to an existing lespedeza issue, then a postemergence herbicide that kills the weed is the better choice. The surrounding plants can also be considerations when picking an herbicide, as mixers will maintain different types of grass based on the active chemical.

Preemergence Herbicides

Triazine herbicides, including atrazine and simazine may be utilized in early spring to stem lespedeza development. Both are compatible with bermuda grass, centipede grass, St. Augustine grass, and zoysia grass. Endothelial ranges widely from fair to good, and programs have to be repeated every four to six weeks to stop growth long term. Several triazine-type herbicide formulations cannot be utilized for residential use, so be sure to look at the labeling to make certain that the item may be used by a homeowner. The Environmental Protection Agency has determined that there is minimal danger to people once the item is used according to strict producer guidelines, however adherence to secure use outlined in the instructions is crucial.

Postemergence Herbicides

If lespedeza has already begun to develop, apply postemergence herbicides to destroy the weed. Both atrazine and simazine also function as postemergence herbicides; herbicides containing 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, which can be sometimes called 2,4-D or three-way herbicides, can also be powerful. Three-way Sensors which contain triclopyr aren’t recommended for bermuda grass, centipede grass or St. Augustine grass, but are protected for fescue and zoysia grass. Metsulfuron is another powerful herbicide, but it’s only suitable to use by professional landscapers. Always test a small patch of your lawn according to manufacturer instructions before applying the material more generously.

Spot Treatments

If lespedeza is an issue in gardens and near ornamental plants, consider spot treatments with glyphosate. Glyphosate is non-selective herbicide, meaning it’ll kill whatever it comes in to contact with, so keep spraying limited to this lespedeza and do not expose your other plants. Since it’s non-selective, it is not suitable to use on lawns.

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