7 Tips to Kill Wild Violets and Preserve Your Lawn

Table of Contents

Are wild violets taking over your lawn? Do you want to regain control over your outdoor space and enjoy a beautiful, thriving turf? In this article, we’ll show you 7 tips to kill wild violets and preserve your lawn. Let’s get started!

1. Identify the type of wild violet:

It's important to identify the type of wild violet because some may require specific control methods. The most common ones are the Common Blue Violet, Sweet White Violet, and Birdfoot Violet. Learn how to identify the one you have, and then proceed accordingly.

2. Mechanical removal:

If you have a small number of wild violets, you can remove them manually with a garden fork or hand tool. Dig around the roots of the plants, pull them up, and discard them in a trash bag. This method can be time-consuming but effective.

Pro tip:

Water your lawn before removing the wild violets so that they come out easier.

3. Mowing:

Mowing regularly will prevent the wild violets from developing seed heads and spreading further. Set your mower blade at 2-3 inches high and mow your lawn once a week to keep it healthy and cut off any wild violet flowers and buds.

4. Chemical control:

There are different herbicides that you can use to kill wild violets, such as dicamba, 2,4-D, and triclopyr. Follow the label instructions carefully when using chemicals, as they can harm other plants and animals if not applied correctly.

Important note:

Keep children and pets away from the treated area, wear protective clothing, and avoid applying herbicides on windy days.

5. Soil pH adjustment:

Wild violets prefer acidic soil, so adjusting the pH level can reduce their growth. You can use lime to increase the pH or sulfur to decrease it, according to your soil test results.

6. Lawn renovation:

If the wild violet infestation is severe, or your lawn has other problems, you may need to renovate it. This involves removing the existing grass and weeds, adding topsoil if needed, planting new grass seeds, and watering regularly. This method requires time, effort, and investment but can give you a fresh start with a healthy lawn.

7. Preventive measures:

After getting rid of wild violets, you can take some preventive measures to avoid them from coming back, such as keeping your lawn thick and healthy, aerating it annually, fertilizing it properly, and applying pre-emergent herbicides in spring and fall.

FAQ:

Here are some commonly asked questions about wild violets and preserving your lawn:

Are wild violets harmful to humans?

No, they are not toxic to humans or pets.

Are wild violets edible?

Yes, they are edible, and some people use them in salads, teas, and other recipes.

Why do wild violets grow in my lawn?

Wild violets grow well in moist, shaded areas and prefer acidic soil.

When is the best time to kill wild violets?

The best time to kill wild violets is in the fall or early spring when they are actively growing.

What are some natural ways to get rid of wild violets?

Some natural ways to get rid of wild violets include hand weeding, using vinegar or boiling water, and improving soil health.

Can vinegar kill wild violets?

Vinegar can help kill wild violets, but it can also harm other plants and may require multiple applications.

How long does it take to kill wild violets with herbicides?

It can take 1-3 weeks for the herbicide to fully kill the wild violets, depending on the type of herbicide used.

Do wild violets attract bees?

Yes, wild violets are attractive to bees and other pollinators.

How can I prevent wild violets from spreading in my vegetable garden?

To prevent wild violets from spreading into your vegetable garden, you can install a physical barrier, such as a raised bed or edging, or use an organic mulch to create a boundary.

Is it safe for pets to be on the lawn after applying herbicides?

It is important to follow the label instructions when using herbicides and keep pets away from treated areas until it is safe.