Dichondra, also known as Dichondra repens, can indeed be considered invasive in certain situations. This low-growing perennial plant is commonly found in lawns and can quickly spread throughout a yard if left unchecked. Its ability to reproduce through tubers, a type of underground stem, allows it to easily establish and take over areas with sparse or weak turf.
One of the reasons why dichondra can become invasive is its growth habit. It tends to form small bunches or clumps, which can rapidly expand and cover large areas if not controlled. These clumps often have long stems that can root at the nodes, enabling new plants to grow from these nodes and further contribute to its spread.
Moreover, dichondra is particularly opportunistic in lawns that have thinning or weak areas. It can outcompete the existing grasses, especially in areas with poor soil conditions or insufficient sunlight. Once dichondra establishes itself, it can quickly dominate the landscape, gradually replacing the desired turf grasses.
I have personally encountered situations where dichondra has become invasive in lawns. In one instance, a client had a lawn with areas of spotty turf, and dichondra had taken advantage of these weak spots to establish itself. Within a few months, the dichondra had spread throughout the entire lawn, forming a dense mat that smothered the remaining grass.
To control dichondra and prevent it from becoming invasive, several strategies can be employed. Regular mowing at a higher height can help discourage its growth, as dichondra prefers shorter turf. Additionally, maintaining a healthy and dense lawn through proper watering, fertilization, and aeration can help prevent dichondra from establishing itself in the first place.
If dichondra has already become invasive, there are a few options for control. Hand-pulling the plants can be effective for small infestations, but care must be taken to remove all the tubers to prevent regrowth. Herbicides specific to broadleaf weeds can also be used, but caution should be exercised to avoid damaging desired grasses or other plants nearby.
Dichondra can be considered invasive when it starts to take over a lawn, particularly in areas with weak or thinning turf. Its ability to spread via tubers and establish in various soil and light conditions allows it to thrive and dominate the landscape. However, with proper lawn care and timely intervention, dichondra can be controlled and prevented from becoming invasive.
