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Henbit is a fairly common weed that can quickly take over your lawn and garden if left unchecked. This invasive weed is known for its cute purple flowerheads and reddish-purple stems, but it can quickly become a nuisance if not dealt with properly.
Fortunately, there are several effective treatment options available to help you get rid of henbit and prevent it from coming back.
Table Of Contents
What is Henbit?
Henbit (Lamium amplexicaule) is an annual weed that is native to Europe and Asia but has become naturalized in North America. It is a member of the mint family and is known for its square stems, opposite leaves, and small clusters of purple flowers.
Henbit typically grows in thin lawns, flower beds, and other areas with moist soil and plenty of sunlight.
Identification
Henbit can be identified by its square stems, opposite leaves, and small clusters of purple flowers. The leaves are typically heart-shaped and have scalloped edges. The stems can grow up to 16 inches tall and are often reddish-purple in color.
Henbit flowers from early spring to early summer and produces small, tubular flowers that are pinkish-purple in color.
Inspection
To effectively get rid of henbit, you need to inspect your lawn and garden for signs of the weed. Look for small patches of lawn or garden that are overpopulated with henbit plants. Henbit typically grows in areas with thin lawns, so pay close attention to the thinner parts of your lawn.
Treatment
There are several treatment options available for getting rid of henbit, including chemical control products, cultural changes, and organic pre-emergent treatments.
Chemical Control Products
Chemical herbicides are the most effective way to get rid of henbit, but they should be used with caution. The wrong treatment methods can have the opposite effect and actually promote the growth of henbit.
When using chemical herbicides, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and apply them only to the treated area. You should also wear personal protective equipment, such as gloves and a mask, to avoid exposure to the chemicals.
Pre-emergent herbicides are the most effective way to prevent henbit from germinating. These herbicides work by preventing the growth of henbit seeds before they have a chance to sprout. The best time to apply pre-emergent herbicides is in the early spring, before the henbit seeds have a chance to germinate.
Post-emergent herbicides are used to kill existing henbit plants. These herbicides work by targeting the leaves and stems of the plant and preventing it from photosynthesizing. The best time to apply post-emergent herbicides is in the early summer, when the henbit plants are actively growing.
Cultural Changes
Cultural changes can also be effective in getting rid of henbit. These changes include:
- Mowing your lawn regularly to prevent the growth of henbit
- Fertilizing your lawn to promote the growth of healthy grass
- Watering your lawn deeply and infrequently to promote deep root growth
- Aeration to allow much-needed sunlight and air to reach the soil
Organic Pre-Emergent Treatments
Organic pre-emergent treatments, such as corn gluten meal, can also be effective in preventing henbit from germinating. Corn gluten meal works by inhibiting the growth of henbit seeds and suppressing root establishment.
The best time to apply corn gluten meal is in the early spring, before the henbit seeds have a chance to germinate.
Prevention
Preventing henbit from coming back is just as important as getting rid of it in the first place.
- Keep your lawn healthy and well-maintained
- Use a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent henbit seeds from germinating
- Remove any henbit plants that you see immediately
- Avoid overwatering your lawn, as this can create a moist environment for henbit seeds to germinate
Treatment Approach
The best treatment approach for getting rid of henbit depends on the severity of the infestation and the type of plant you are dealing with.
- For small patches of lawn or garden, hand-pulling is the most effective method. This can be back-breaking work, but it is the most efficient method for small areas.
- For larger patches of turf, chemical herbicides are the most effective method. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and apply the proper amount of herbicide for the size of the treated area.
- For flower beds and other areas with delicate plants, use a low-pressure spray or handheld sprayer to apply herbicides.
Key Takeaways
- Henbit is a fairly common weed that can quickly take over your lawn and garden if left unchecked.
- Chemical herbicides are the most effective way to get rid of henbit, but they should be used with caution.
- Pre-emergent herbicides are the most effective way to prevent henbit from germinating.
- Organic pre-emergent treatments, such as corn gluten meal, can also be effective in preventing henbit from germinating.
- Preventing henbit from coming back is just as important as getting rid of it in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the scientific name for henbit?
Henbit’s scientific name is Lamium amplexicaule.
Is henbit a beneficial plant?
While henbit is not typically considered a beneficial plant, it does have some uses. It can be used as a food source for wildlife and is sometimes used in herbal medicine.
Can I use chemical herbicides on food crops?
No, chemical herbicides should not be used on food crops. If you have henbit in your vegetable garden, you should use organic pre-emergent treatments or hand-pull the weeds.
What is the best time to apply pre-emergent herbicides?
The best time to apply pre-emergent herbicides is in the early spring, before the henbit seeds have a chance to germinate.
Can I use corn gluten meal on my lawn?
Yes, corn gluten meal can be used on your lawn. It is an effective one-pass weed suppressant and can be used to prevent the growth of other plants as well. However, it should be used with caution, as it can also suppress root establishment and may not be the best long-term control method.
