broadleaf weed · perennial

How to Kill Oxalis (Yellow Wood Sorrel)

Oxalis stricta

Dig or sprayhard to controlLawn & beds

What Oxalis (Yellow Wood Sorrel) looks like

Clover-like leaves with three heart-shaped leaflets (often reddish underneath); small yellow or pink flowers followed by seed pods that explode when touched.

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Best approach: Dig or spray

Hand-pulling works for small patches but remove the entire root — oxalis regrows from root fragments. Pull BEFORE seed pods form (they explode and spread seeds). In flower beds, hand-pulling is preferred.

Chemical treatment

Use a broadleaf herbicide with 2,4-D, dicamba, or MCPA in spring or early fall. Persistence is needed—treat multiple times or use a stronger formulation with triclopyr.

Non-chemical management

Remove plants before seed pods mature and explode; maintain dense turf to prevent establishment.

How to stop Oxalis (Yellow Wood Sorrel) coming back

Remove plants before seed pods mature and explode; maintain dense turf to prevent establishment.

Recommended products for Oxalis (Yellow Wood Sorrel)

BioAdvanced All-In-One Weed & Feed (22-0-4)

Quinclorac 18.92%granular$25-$40 (12 lb bag, covers 5,000 sq ft)
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Scotts Turf Builder Southern Triple Action

Pendimethalin + broadleaf herbicide + fertiliser (formulated for warm-season grass)granular$55–$70
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Scotts Turf Builder Southern Triple Action

Pendimethalin + broadleaf herbicide + fertiliser (formulated for warm-season grass)granular$55-$65 (13.32 lb bag, covers 4,000 sq ft)
View on Amazon

Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1

Pendimethalin, Dicambagranular$30-$45 (11.31 lb bag, covers 4,000 sq ft)
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FAQ

What does Oxalis (Yellow Wood Sorrel) look like?

Clover-like leaves with three heart-shaped leaflets (often reddish underneath); small yellow or pink flowers followed by seed pods that explode when touched.

What's the best way to kill Oxalis (Yellow Wood Sorrel)?

Dig or spray. Hand-pulling works for small patches but remove the entire root — oxalis regrows from root fragments. Pull BEFORE seed pods form (they explode and spread seeds). In flower beds, hand-pulling is preferred.

Is Oxalis (Yellow Wood Sorrel) hard to get rid of?

Oxalis (Yellow Wood Sorrel) is rated hard to control. It usually requires multiple applications and a consistent plan.

How do I stop Oxalis (Yellow Wood Sorrel) coming back?

Remove plants before seed pods mature and explode; maintain dense turf to prevent establishment.

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