How to Control Dollarweed Before Winter Takes Hold in South Florida Lawns

Dollarweed, also known as pennywort, is one of South Florida’s most persistent and frustrating lawn invaders. Recognizable by its bright green, round leaves that resemble small silver dollars, this broadleaf weed thrives in damp, nutrient-rich soil and can quickly take over even the healthiest St. Augustine lawns during the cooler months, especially in areas with excess moisture where irrigation has not been adjusted down to compensate for the cooler weather.

Before winter takes hold, it’s important to identify and treat Dollarweed early—before it spreads and weakens your turf. Here’s how to spot it, prevent it, and control it with the help of Hulett Environmental Services’ professional lawn spraying programs.

What Is Dollarweed and How to Identify It in Florida Lawns

Dollarweed (Hydrocotyle spp.) is a low-growing, water-loving perennial that spreads through underground rhizomes and seeds. It’s commonly mistaken for other broadleaf weeds such as Florida pusley, Dichondra, or Florida snow, but it’s easy to distinguish by its signature round, coin-shaped leaves with a small notch where the stem connects.

Dollarweed often appears in St. Augustine grass and other dense turf types, especially in shaded or overwatered areas. If left untreated, its creeping growth habit allows it to crowd out desirable grass, leaving thin and patchy areas across your lawn.

Why Dollarweed Thrives in South Florida’s Climate

South Florida’s warm, humid weather and year-round irrigation create the perfect environment for Dollarweed to flourish. While most weeds slow down during cooler months, Dollarweed becomes even more aggressive—especially in lawns that stay too wet.

Excess moisture, whether from frequent rainfall, poor drainage, or overwatering, allows Dollarweed to outcompete grass for nutrients and sunlight. Once established, it can spread rapidly through its underground stems, making manual removal nearly impossible without professional treatment.

Common Mistakes That Encourage Dollarweed Growth

Several common lawn care practices can unintentionally make conditions ideal for Dollarweed:

• Overwatering: Consistent moisture keeps Dollarweed thriving while weakening turfgrass roots.
• Improper irrigation timing: Watering at night encourages prolonged moisture on leaves and soil, and can result in weeds.
• Low mowing height: Scalping grass reduces its ability to shade out weeds, and weakens the grass, hurting its ability to fight against weeds.
• Neglecting fertilization: Underfed turf can’t grow thick enough to compete with invasive weeds.

Adjusting these practices can significantly reduce Dollarweed outbreaks and improve overall lawn health.

Dollarweed Control and Treatment Options

Effective Dollarweed control in Florida requires both cultural and treatment strategies. Here’s how to manage it, though this weed typically requires professional attention:

• Fix irrigation issues first. Reduce watering frequency and inspect for drainage problems or leaky sprinkler heads.
• Improve soil health. Aerate compacted areas and fertilize properly to promote thicker turf.
• Apply selective herbicides. Use products formulated to target broadleaf weeds without damaging your grass. However, professional grade products are often needed.
• Follow up regularly. Dollarweed can regrow from roots and rhizomes, so multiple treatments and professional oversight are needed.

Hulett’s trained lawn technicians use professional-grade herbicides and customized treatment programs to safely eliminate Dollarweed while strengthening your lawn’s root system.

Broadleaf Weed Control Tips for Florida Homeowners

Dollarweed isn’t the only broadleaf weed that thrives in Florida lawns. Others—like Florida pusley, Dichondra, and clover—also take advantage of weakened turf during cooler months. Preventing these invaders starts with:

• Maintaining balanced fertilization using a high-quality green lawn fertilizer to support dense turf growth.
• Practicing proper irrigation management—watering deeply but infrequently.
• Scheduling regular lawn spraying services to protect your lawn from both weeds and insects.

Healthy, well-fed lawns naturally resist weeds, insects, and disease. A comprehensive program keeps your grass looking beautiful and vibrant through winter and beyond.

Professional Lawn Spraying Services for Dollarweed Control in South Florida

If Dollarweed has already taken hold in your lawn, don’t wait until spring to take action. Hulett Environmental Services offers expert broadleaf weed control and Dollarweed treatment programs tailored to South Florida’s unique climate and turf types.

Our specialists—trained by a Board Certified Entomologist—combine pet and environmentally friendly products, proper fertilization, and precision irrigation guidance to restore your lawn’s balance and beauty.

Protect your lawn from Dollarweed, insects, and disease and Just Call Hulett! Schedule your free, no-obligation inspection today to receive a customized plan for a greener, healthier lawn all year long.