Dichondra, often called kidney weed or ponyfoot, is a perennial broadleaf weed that aggressively invades turfgrass, forming dense, low-growing mats. It spreads through seeds and above-ground runners (stolons), rooting at the nodes to create new plants that are difficult to eliminate once established. Successful removal requires precise identification, cultural control, and targeted herbicide application, as this resilient weed is resistant to many common broadleaf weed killers.
Confirming Dichondra Identification
Correctly identifying this weed is the first step toward effective treatment, as Dichondra is frequently mistaken for other low-growing plants like dollarweed. Dichondra is characterized by small, kidney-shaped or nearly circular leaves (5 to 25 millimeters across) that are alternately arranged on the stems. The leaves are typically bright green and may have a sparse covering of soft, grayish hairs.
Unlike dollarweed, which has a leaf stem attached to the center of a circular leaf, the stem of Dichondra attaches to the edge of the kidney-shaped leaf. Dichondra grows very close to the ground, usually forming a mat between 37 and 75 millimeters in height. Its prostrate stems root wherever they touch the soil, confirming its identity.
Manual and Cultural Control Strategies
For small infestations or areas where chemical use is not desired, non-chemical methods focus on physically removing the plant and improving the competitive strength of the lawn. Hand-weeding is effective for limited patches, but requires thoroughness. You must carefully remove the entire stolon system (creeping runners), as any runner left behind can regenerate a new plant.
Cultural practices that promote a dense, healthy lawn are the primary defense against this invader. Dichondra thrives in weak, thin turf, so maintaining a proper fertilization schedule and correct soil pH is important. Mowing turfgrass at a taller height (three to four inches) encourages deeper root growth and helps shade out the low-lying Dichondra, limiting its sunlight access. In non-lawn areas, heavy organic mulch or landscape fabric can suppress new growth by blocking light and creating a physical barrier.
Selecting the Right Herbicide
For widespread or persistent infestations, chemical control is necessary, requiring specific post-emergent herbicides due to Dichondra’s resilience. The most effective selective weed killers contain active ingredients such as 2,4-D, MCPP (Mecoprop), Dicamba, or combination products. These broadleaf herbicides target the weed without harming most established turfgrasses. Repeated applications of 2,4-D have proven particularly effective.
Application timing is important; treatments are best applied when Dichondra is actively growing, typically in the spring when temperatures are moderate. Add a non-ionic surfactant to the spray mixture, as the waxy leaves can repel the herbicide solution. The surfactant helps the product stick to the leaf surface, ensuring better absorption. Always follow the product label directions precisely, paying close attention to application rates, safety precautions, and the safe use temperature for your specific turfgrass type to avoid damage.
Preventing Regrowth
Once the initial treatment has killed the established Dichondra, focus on long-term maintenance to prevent re-establishment from missed runners or dormant seeds. Promptly repair areas where the weed was removed by reseeding or installing new sod to eliminate bare spots. A thick, well-maintained turf canopy is the most effective barrier against new weed growth, preventing sunlight from reaching the soil surface where seeds can germinate.
Maintaining optimal soil health, including proper aeration and drainage, is also important, as Dichondra often thrives in moist, compacted soils. Water deeply but infrequently, aiming for one to one and a half inches of water per week to discourage the weed’s shallow root system. For areas with a history of heavy infestation, using a pre-emergent herbicide in subsequent seasons can prevent new seeds from sprouting.