First, consider whether control can be achieved using non-chemical means such as digging out or suppressing with mulch.
Where these methods are not feasible, chemical controls may be necessary. Choose a weedkiller that is most appropriate for that purpose by reading the label carefully before buying or using. Contact weedkillers or glyphosate-based products, which have low persistence in the soil, may suffice. Take particular care when using residual weedkillers, which persist in the soil for several weeks or months, as they can move deeper or sideways in the soil, leading to possible damage of underlying roots.
Non-chemical control
Oxalis corniculata
- In an established lawn, try feeding and top-dressing to improve turf vigour
- Vigorous wire raking in mid-September will remove much of the weed
- Where Oxalis corniculata persists, it may be necessary to strip the affected turf from the site and destroy it, then re-seed the area in spring or autumn
- In herbaceous borders, repeatedly hoe to kill the weed and prevent seed being formed
Oxalis debilis and O. latifolia
- Forking out is best done in the spring when the tiny developing bulbils are firmly attached to the parent plant and before Oxalis latifolia has opportunity to produce seeds. Later in the season they are easily detached, causing the weed to be spread further around the garden
- On infested shrub borders apply a heavy mulch of leaf litter, and replenish as necessary to keep the oxalis well buried. The mulch may need to be maintained for several years
- In a single small bed it may be possible to remove all the soil to a depth of several inches, bringing in fresh replacement soil
Chemical control
Lawn weedkillers
Unfortunately, Oxalis corniculata (which is problematic in lawns) shows strong resistance to the full range of selective lawn weedkillers.
Glyphosate
Some control can be gained by treating oxalis with the non-selective weedkiller glyphosate (e.g. Scotts Roundup, SBM Job done General Purpose Weedkiller or Doff Glyphosate Weedkiller). The most effective period for application is in spring when the oxalis is growing actively and vigorously. Be prepared for some re-growth later in the season or the following spring, which will need a repeat application of weedkiller. Protect grass and garden plants from accidental spray drift, or apply glyphosate specifically to the leaves of the oxalis.
Inclusion of a weedkiller product does not indicate a recommendation or endorsement by the RHS. It is a list of products currently available to the home gardener.
Download
Weedkillers for home gardeners (Adobe Acrobat pdf document outlining weedkillers available to gardeners; see section 4)
Links
Chemicals: using safely and effectively
Chemicals: using a sprayer
Chemicals: using spot and broad-scale weedkillers
Weeds: non-chemical control