Wireweed
What Is Wireweed?
Wireweed (Polygonum aviculare) is a tough, sprawling weed that grows low to the ground with wiry stems that can spread up to 1 metre wide. You’ll notice its small, blue-green leaves growing alternately along long, thin branches. It produces tiny pinkish-white flowers nestled at the base of the leaves and often appears in winter and spring, especially in wet soils, and can smother crops and turf if left uncontrolled.
Why Is It A Problem?
Wireweed (Polygonum aviculare) grows late in the season, which can make it tough to control as it often germinates after crops have already established. While it might not compete strongly if it appears late, mature wireweed plants have long, tough branches that can cause problems during harvest. Additionally, its deep taproot allows it to survive dry, hot weather, and if left unmanaged, it can continue to grow year after year.
How to Identify Wireweed
Wireweed can be tricky to spot at first, but with a few key signs, it’s easier to recognise. By looking closely at its leaves, stems, flowers, and growth pattern, you can quickly tell if it’s wireweed spreading through your garden or paddock.
Leaves
The leaves are thin, spear-shaped, and rigid. They grow alternately on wiry stems. These leaves help the plant stay low to the ground and spread quickly.
Stems
Long, thin, and tough, spreading out flat or slightly raised. The stems can root where they touch the ground, aiding in the plant’s spread.
Flowers
Small pinkish-white flowers appear at the base of leaves, often hidden and easy to miss. Despite their small size, they play a big role in the plant’s reproduction.
Growth
Wireweed forms mats that can cover large areas, making it hard for other plants to grow. This dense growth makes it competitive and difficult to remove.
Effective Methods
Spray Early and Often
Apply herbicides when wireweed is young and actively growing. Since most selective herbicides work best on seedlings, catch wireweed early before it becomes tough. You may need a second spray later to target any late-germinating plants.
Rotate Your Crops
Rotate your crops or plant renovation pastures to reduce wireweed numbers. Changing your crops breaks the weed’s life cycle, making it easier to manage.
Manage Soil and Water
Wireweed thrives in wet soils, so improve drainage where possible. Avoid overwatering and address any areas where water tends to pool, as drier soil will limit wireweed growth.
Hand Pull Small Patches
If you notice small patches of wireweed, pull them out by hand. Be sure to remove the long taproot to prevent regrowth.
Monitor Regularly
Check your paddocks or garden frequently, especially after rain. Wireweed can germinate late, so stay alert for new growth and act quickly to remove it.
Chemical Control Options
You can also use herbicides to manage wireweed and other weeds. Along with hand-pulling and mulching, this method provides extra support, especially when weeds spread widely. Some effective Wireweed Control options include:
Yates Bindii & Clover Weeder Concentrate
Yates Bindii & Clover Weeder Concentrate effectively controls a variety of broadleaf weeds, including bindii, clover, and dandelions, in many lawn types, except buffalo grass. This selective weed killer combines two active ingredients for broad-spectrum control and offers an economical solution, treating over 330 square metres with just 500mL. With its easy-to-use formula and child-resistant cap, it ensures precise dosing for a weed-free lawn without breaking the bank.
Yates Weedkiller For Lawns RTU
Yates Weedkiller for Lawns RTU is a selective broadleaf weed killer that targets bindii, clover, and other broadleaf weeds in lawns, turf, and pathways without harming your grass. Its ready-to-use formula includes a wetting agent for better leaf penetration, ensuring effective weed control with minimal effort. With a convenient spray bottle, there’s no need for mixing, making it easy to apply and enjoy a weed-free lawn.
Richgro Lawn Feed & Weed
Richgro Lawn Feed & Weed provides selective control of common broadleaf weeds like wireweed in home garden lawns, including Buffalo lawns. This dual-action product not only controls weeds but also feeds your lawn with essential nutrients like nitrogen and iron, helping it stay green and healthy. With a convenient water flow cap for easy application, it works on a variety of lawn types and is suitable for use during Level 2 water restrictions.
Explore our Garden Weed Control Range for more effective solutions to tackle wireweed and other stubborn weeds.
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