Weed identification

[simonsayssurf]

I need help identifying and controlling this weed. Getting tired of pulling it every year. Starts it's appearance in late January and is still active today. It has tiny lavender 4 petal flowers at various times. Take a look.

[epi 1:10,000]

Maybe it is creeping spurge.

http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/WEEDS/creeping_spurge.html

http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/weeds_common.html

[dogwind]

I have a bunch of that stuff in my yard this year. It pulls up easy, but I can't seem to keep it under control. I don't think the vinegar solution does much good (leaves are too small) but I am hoping it will die in the hotter dryer conditions coming.

[AMG]

I've got tons of it too - seems like much more this year than last.

Checked out the link & I don't think it's creeping spurge. But that's a good name for a weed :lol:

[Weedbuster]

I get this nasty stuff every year. Comes in late winter, and dies off as it get's hot. It comes in so thick that it chokes out the sunlight from the burmuda. I see it's pretty prevelant in my neighbors yards too. I'm suprised no one has identified this yet. It's definitely not the spurge suggested here, but close.

[sandih]

I have it as well. Almost looks like a succulent. I'll keep checking back to see if someone IDs it.

[P Ferrell]

This is one of three "weeds" I've been trying to put a name to this spring.
I believe this to be "field madder". As for a control, I just pull it up as I pass by when mowing and throw it in front of the mower to be mulched. There's not much left by now, and the only strong plants remaining are in the part-shade areas of the lawn.

Here is a photo of it from my yard:
Field Madder - my yard

From the following four websites, you can learn that this plant is a perennial, a warm-season annual, AND a winter annual. Guess it depends on where you live.
Field Madder - AggieTurf Website
Field Madder - UC IPM Website
Field Madder - WeedAlert.Com
Field Madder - Virginia Tech Weed Identification Guide

Regards,
Patrick Ferrell
Allen, Texas

[sandih]

I spent 2 afternoons pulling most of it out of my front yard. It was quite easy and now the grass has quickly taken over those spots.

[Weedbuster]

I previously thought this was Virginia Buttonweed. However, looking at your picture, and the other links, I'm convinced this is Field Madder. I've had this stuff for around 8 years. I'm tired of pulling it. Anyone have an effective organic solution?

[Dirt Doctor]

We're doing the plant of the week on this weed. I do think the vinegar formula will kill it but that tough in turf because of the non-selective nature of the vinegar. Heavy applications of molasses will probably do the trick. Too much, again, will kill the grass. No problem in beds.