Two Lawn Weeds Popping Up All Over Pennsylvania

Wild violet started to flower in the central counties during mid-April, and daisy fleabane is producing light green rosettes of leaves, and will soon be putting out long drooping flower stalks.

Wild Violet

Wild violet is a common name used for several species within the Viola genus that infest home lawns, parks, grounds, cemeteries, and other turf areas. This weed grows well in moist, fertile soils and can persist in full sun and shaded areas. Wild violet (Viola spp.) is an aggressive weed, spreading into non-infested areas via underground stems called rhizomes.

Identification and Management

Lawn and Turfgrass Weeds: Wild Violet

Daisy Fleabane

Annual fleabane, also called daisy fleabane, is a common and fast-growing broadleaf weed found in Pennsylvania lawns and other low maintenance turf areas. Its common name comes from folklore claiming dried plant material will repel fleas. Seed of this species germinates in spring, and newly emerging plants produce a rosette of leaves. Flower stems and flowers are produced in early to mid-May, produce seed, and plants die back during hot weather or at the end of the growing season.

Identification and Management

Lawn and Turfgrass Weeds: Annual or Daisy Fleabane