What is This Small Plant Growing in My Lawn (Soliva Sessilis)

Hello, lawn enthusiasts! Terry here from Lawnscience. Today, I want to talk about a pesky little plant that has been the bane of many a lawn lover’s existence: Soliva sessilis, also known as the lawn burweed or prickly mat. If you’ve ever walked barefoot across your lawn and felt a sudden sharp pain, you’ve likely encountered this prickly invader. Let’s dive into what Soliva sessilis is, how to identify it, and, most importantly, how to get rid of it.

What is Soliva Sessilis?

Soliva sessilis is a low-growing, annual weed that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It’s notorious for its small, spiky seeds that can make walking barefoot across your lawn a painful experience. Native to South America, Soliva sessilis has spread to various parts of the world, including the UK, where it thrives in mild climates.

How to Identify Soliva Sessilis

Identifying Soliva sessilis early on is key to managing it effectively. Here are some characteristics to look for:

• Leaves: The leaves are finely divided, almost fern-like, and grow in a rosette pattern close to the ground.
• Flowers: The flowers are small, yellow-green, and often go unnoticed because they are so close to the ground.
• Seeds: The seeds are the main troublemakers. They are small, brown, and covered in tiny spines that can easily stick to skin, clothing, and animal fur.

The Lifecycle of Soliva Sessilis

Understanding the lifecycle of Soliva sessilis can help you time your control measures more effectively:

1. Germination: Seeds typically germinate in the autumn.
2. Growth: The plant grows during the cool months of autumn and winter.
3. Flowering: Flowering and seed production occur in late winter to early spring.
4. Seed Dispersal: As the weather warms up, the plant dies off, leaving behind a new crop of spiky seeds ready to germinate in the next season.

How to Control Soliva Sessilis

Getting rid of Soliva sessilis requires a combination of good lawn care practices and targeted control methods. Here’s how you can keep your lawn prickle-free:

1. Maintain a Healthy Lawn: A dense, healthy lawn is your first line of defence against any weed. Regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing can help your grass outcompete Soliva sessilis.
2. Herbicides: For larger infestations, herbicides can be effective. Look for pre-emergent herbicides to prevent seeds from germinating in the autumn. Post-emergent herbicides can be used to kill young plants in the winter. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consider consulting a lawn care professional for the best results.
3. Aeration and Overseeding: Aerate your lawn in the autumn to improve soil health and overseed with a hardy grass variety to fill in any bare spots.

Preventing Future Infestations

Once you’ve dealt with Soliva sessilis, the key is to prevent it from coming back. Here are some tips:

• Regular Monitoring: Keep an eye on your lawn, especially in the cooler months, to catch any new growth early.
• Proper Lawn Maintenance: Continue with good lawn care practices to maintain a thick, healthy lawn.
• Educate Your Family: Make sure everyone in your household knows to look out for Soliva sessilis, especially if you enjoy barefoot walks or have pets that could spread the seeds.

Conclusion

Soliva sessilis may be a prickly problem, but with the right approach, you can keep your lawn looking lush and feeling great underfoot. Remember, the key is early detection and maintaining a healthy lawn to prevent these pesky weeds from taking hold. If you need any help or advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Lawnscience. We’re here to help you achieve the perfect lawn!

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