If you’ve ever noticed small, round leaves spreading across your lawn or garden, you might be dealing with dollar weed (also known as pennywort). This persistent and fast-growing weed can quickly take over, especially in moist and shady areas. But don’t worry—there are ways to manage and control it effectively.
What Is Dollar Weed? 🌿
Dollar weed (Hydrocotyle spp.) is a low-growing perennial weed that thrives in wet, poorly drained soils. It gets its name because of its coin-shaped leaves, which resemble a small dollar coin.
How to Identify Dollar Weed:
✔ Round, bright green leaves with a glossy surface
✔ A single stem in the center of each leaf
✔ Creeping growth pattern, spreading through underground rhizomes
✔ Thrives in wet areas like lawns, gardens, and around ponds
Why Is Dollar Weed a Problem? ❌
Dollar weed is invasive and can quickly choke out grass and other plants. Because it spreads underground and aboveground, it can be tough to eliminate.
Common Causes of Dollar Weed Growth:
- Overwatering 💦 – Too much moisture encourages its spread
- Poor drainage – Waterlogged soil is a perfect environment
- Thin or weak lawns – Bare spots give dollar weed room to grow
- Shady conditions – Prefers areas with less direct sunlight
How to Get Rid of Dollar Weed 🚫
1. Improve Lawn Health 🌱
A thick, healthy lawn prevents weeds from taking over. To discourage dollar weed:
✅ Mow your lawn at the proper height to shade out weeds
✅ Avoid overwatering—water deeply but less frequently
✅ Aerate your soil to improve drainage
✅ Fertilize properly to keep grass strong
2. Manual Removal ✋
For small infestations, hand-pulling can be effective. Make sure to:
✔ Pull up the entire root system to prevent regrowth
✔ Do this after rainfall when the soil is soft
✔ Dispose of the weeds properly to avoid spreading
3. Natural and Organic Control Methods 🌿
- Vinegar Spray – A solution of white vinegar and water can burn dollar weed leaves (but be careful not to harm nearby grass).
- Boiling Water – Pouring hot water directly on the weed can kill it, but avoid contact with other plants.
- Mulching – Using organic mulch in garden beds can suppress growth.
4. Chemical Control (As a Last Resort) 🧪
If dollar weed is out of control, consider using a selective herbicide labeled for broadleaf weed control.
✔ Look for products containing 2,4-D, Dicamba, or MCPA
✔ Apply in the early morning on a dry, calm day
✔ Follow the instructions carefully to protect beneficial plants
Final Thoughts 🌾
Dollar weed may be stubborn, but with the right approach, you can keep it under control. The key is proper lawn care, improved drainage, and persistence in removing weeds before they spread.
✨ Have you battled dollar weed in your yard? Share your tips and experiences in the comments! ✨
