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TYPE
Black medic is a broadleaf annual or short-lived perennial weed that can range from 1-2' tall to 1' wide. Its seeds begin to germinate as soil begins to warm up in early spring and then continues to grow throughout the season. This weed forms a shallow taproot with small nodules.
HOW TO IDENTIFY
Black medic is usually first spotted when small, round yellow flowers bloom with clusters clover-like leaves. The flowers eventually form into black seed pods while the stems become dark brown/black and prostrate, or woody. Toothed stipules are found at the petiole base and has alternating compound leaves with three leaflets that resemble a clover.
- NOTE: Black medic is often mistaken for Yellow Wood Sorrel.
WHERE IT GROWS
This weed grows in areas of poor, dry, compacted soil located in direct sunlight. This weed can often be found in areas of high foot traffic and near roadsides.
GROWING SEASON
In the months of April-October.
HOW TO MANAGE
If a lawn is infested with black medic, then this is a good indication that soil is compacted. To correct this infestation, aerate soil and use a post-emergence herbicide. For cases where the invasion is less severe, pull black medic out by hand but still aerate because odds are the soil is still compacted. Keep soil well-watered to prevent black medic from taking seed. Overall, the best prevention method for black medic and any invasive weed is to maintain healthy, dense turf with a strong root system by adopting a regular lawn care routine including fertilization, soil amendments, proper mowing
and watering
as well as aeration
and thatch management
practices.
- TIP: Mulching can help prevent black medic growth in gardens as well.
For professional fertilizers, humic and AMP-XC™ enriched products available, please visit TurfCare’s online Product Catalog.
For green industry professionals or others interested in ordering Turfcare products, please contact our Customer Service
to find a distributor near you.
References:
https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/lawns/lawn-weed-identification
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/weeds/black-medic-weed.htm
http://www.brilliantlawns.co.uk/lawn-weeds.html
Photos:
Photo Credit: Simon | Flick
Photo Credit: Wendell Smith | Flickr
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