Autumn hawkbit is a perennial weed that forms as a basal rosette. It often referred to as fall dandelion. It spreads by seed and has a deep fleshy taproot. It is frequently found on grassy areas, verges, pathways and lawns.
Leaves
Autumn hawkbit leaves are long and narrow with the edges deeply lobed or toothed.
Flowers
The bright yellow dandelion like flowers form in loose clusters and can be seen between June and October
Habitat
Autumn hawkbit will grow in most conditions, especially where the soil is very fertile.
Cultural control
- This weed can be removed by hand, taking care to remove the whole of the tap root, to avoid it regenerating.
- Remove the flower head before they have a chance to seed.
- Encourage a thick lawn with good lawn care practices to prevent weeds encroaching.
Chemical control
Autumn hawkbit can be controlled with a selective herbicide. A single application is usually enough for complete control.
Autumn hawkbit images
Recommended herbicides for the control of autumn hawkbit
Professional products (All operators must be trained and certificated in using and applying any Ministry Approved professional products)
- ICL Enforcer (2,4-D, Dicamba, Mecoprop-p MCPA)
- ICL Praxys (Fluroxypyr, Clopyralid, Florasulam)
- Barclay Holster (Fluroxypyr, 2,4-D, Dicamaba)
- Headland Quickfire (Mecoprop-p, Dicamaba)
- Hygrass-P (Dicamba, Mecoprop-p)
- Hysward-P (Mecoprop-p, Dicamba, MCPA)
- Bayer Longbow (MCPA, Dicamba, Mecoprop-p)
- Mascot Junction Turf (Flurosulam, 2,4-D)
- Mascot Greenor (Fluroxpyr, Clopyralid, MCPA)
- Mascot Crossbar (Fluroxpyr, 2,4-D, Dicamab)
Products available for non-professional use (These products are available from garden centres and DIY stores and do not require any training or certification for use and application.)
- Weedol Concentrate (Fluroxypyr, Clopyralid, MCPA)
- Vitax lawn Clear (Clopyralid, 2,4-D, MCPA)
- Resolva Lawn Weed Killer (Mecoprop-p, Dicamba)
Tips for successful weed control using selective herbicides
- Treat weeds when growth is strong, this is usually in May and June.
- Don’t mow the lawn 3 days prior and 3 days after the treatment, to allow for maximum uptake of the chemical.
- Spray when the leaf/foliage is dry, as this reduces runoff and allows the chemical to stick to the weed.