Choosing the best herbicide for creeping woodsorrel requires understanding why this aggressive weed survives where others fail. Unlike dandelions or clover, creeping woodsorrel (Oxalis corniculata) reproduces by explosive seed pods and rooting stem fragments, making physical removal nearly impossible.

This weed thrives in both moist, well-fertilized lawns and dry, compacted soil, outcompeting grass through its prostrate, mat-forming growth habit. Moreover, creeping woodsorrel often displays a distinctive purple tint on its leaves, differentiating it from the upright yellow woodsorrel found primarily in flower beds.

Standard broadleaf herbicides containing only 2,4-D and MCPP frequently fail against oxalis species due to natural resistance mechanisms. Consequently, gardeners must select products with specific active ingredients proven effective against this stubborn perennial.

In this guide, the best herbicide for creeping woodsorrel has been rigorously evaluated based on active ingredient efficacy, application method, safety for surrounding plants, and verified availability through major online retailers. We have analysed university research, extension service recommendations, and real-world user experiences to help you eliminate oxalis permanently.

10 Best Herbicide For Creeping Woodsorrel

1. Southern Ag Surfactant for Herbicides – Kills creeping woodsorrel without killing grass

Southern Ag Surfactant for Herbicides is the top recommendation for homeowners seeking a product that kills creeping woodsorrel without killing grass when mixed with appropriate herbicides. Additionally, this non-ionic surfactant breaks the surface tension of water droplets, allowing herbicides to penetrate the waxy leaves of oxalis effectively. As a result, it dramatically improves the efficacy of any selective broadleaf herbicide you choose.

The formula contains 80% non-ionic surfactant with no crop oil, making it safe for use on all turfgrass types including fescue, Bermuda, and St. Augustine. Moreover, it should be applied at 1 to 2 teaspoons per gallon of spray solution for optimal results. Therefore, it is essential for getting professional-grade performance from standard herbicides against stubborn creeping woodsorrel.

This surfactant is rainfast once the spray solution has dried, typically within one to two hours after application. Furthermore, it is compatible with most herbicides including 2,4-D, dicamba, triclopyr, and glyphosate. Overall, it is the most cost-effective way to boost herbicide performance against oxalis.

Pros:

• Boosts efficacy

• Turf safe

• Rainfast fast

• Compatible all

• Cost effective

• Waxy leaf

• Professional grade

Cons:

• Mixing needed

• Not standalone

• Requires sprayer

---

2. Compare-N-Save 2,4-D Amine Selective Weed Killer – Selective post emergent herbicide for oxalis in lawns

Compare-N-Save 2,4-D Amine Selective Weed Killer qualifies as an excellent selective post emergent herbicide for oxalis in lawns for broadleaf weed control. Additionally, this concentrate contains 46.8% 2,4-D amine, which targets over 100 listed broadleaf weeds including dandelion, clover, and chickweed. Consequently, it provides a solid foundation for oxalis control programs when combined with other active ingredients.

The amine formulation is low-odor and low-volatility, making it suitable for residential applications near sensitive plants. Moreover, one pint of concentrate makes up to 40 gallons of finished spray, offering exceptional value for larger lawns. Therefore, budget-conscious homeowners can treat extensive oxalis infestations without breaking the bank.

This product is rainproof within six to eight hours and produces visible results within one to two weeks. Furthermore, it should be applied when temperatures are between 15°C and 27°C for optimal absorption. Overall, it is a reliable, affordable foundation for oxalis control.

Pros:

• Low odor

• Large coverage

• Rainproof 8hr

• Affordable

• 100+ weeds

• Low volatility

• Concentrate

Cons:

• Weak oxalis

• Needs tank mix

• Slow results

---

3. Preen Garden Weed Preventer – Pre emergent herbicide that stops oxalis seeds germinating

Preen Garden Weed Preventer serves as the pre emergent herbicide that stops oxalis seeds germinating before they become visible problems. Additionally, this granular formulation contains trifluralin, which creates a chemical barrier in the top inch of soil that disrupts root development of germinating seeds. As a result, it prevents the explosive seed capsules of creeping woodsorrel from establishing new plants throughout the growing season.

The dry granules spread easily with a broadcast spreader, providing uniform coverage without liquid mixing or spraying equipment. Moreover, one application lasts for up to three months, reducing the need for frequent reapplications. Therefore, it is ideal for preventative programs in flower beds, vegetable gardens, and around ornamentals.

Preen does not control existing oxalis plants, so it must be combined with postemergence herbicides for complete management. Furthermore, it requires watering in immediately after application for activation. Overall, it is an essential component of integrated oxalis control.

Pros:

• Granular form

• Easy spreading

• Seed prevention

• 3 months

• Flower bed safe

• Vegetable safe

• Long lasting

Cons:

• No existing kill

• Needs water in

• Not for lawns

---

4. Bonide Weed Beater Ultra Concentrate – Triclopyr based weed killer for creeping woodsorrel

Bonide Weed Beater Ultra Concentrate is a triclopyr based weed killer for creeping woodsorrel that delivers professional results for home users. Additionally, this concentrate contains 8.8% triclopyr, which is the active ingredient recommended by university extension services for oxalis control. Consequently, it targets creeping woodsorrel effectively where standard 2,4-D products fail.

The formula is selective for broadleaf weeds and safe for most turfgrasses, including fescue, bluegrass, and ryegrass. Moreover, it translocates throughout the oxalis plant, killing roots, stolons, and stem fragments. Therefore, it is the go-to choice for homeowners battling resistant oxalis infestations in cool-season lawns.

Bonide Weed Beater Ultra is rainproof within six hours and begins showing visible results within 10 to 14 days. Furthermore, it can be tank-mixed with 2,4-D for expanded weed control. Overall, it offers exceptional value for money for serious DIY users.

Pros:

• Triclopyr base

• Turf safe

• Root kill

• Tank mixable

• Rainproof 6hr

• Concentrate

• University approved

Cons:

• Mixing needed

• Requires sprayer

• Not Bermuda

---

5. Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray – Ready to use oxalis killer for home lawns

Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray is the ready to use oxalis killer for home lawns that requires no mixing or measuring. Additionally, this hose-end sprayer attaches directly to your garden hose, covering up to 5,000 square feet per bottle. Consequently, it simplifies treatment of large oxalis infestations without the need for separate spray equipment.

The active ingredient combination includes 2,4-D, MCPP, and dicamba, which targets over 250 listed broadleaf weeds including creeping woodsorrel and clover. Moreover, the formula is rainproof in just one hour, allowing you to apply it confidently before unpredictable weather. Therefore, busy homeowners can treat their lawns without worrying about weather windows or complex mixing instructions.

Ortho WeedClear is safe for use on most northern and southern lawn grasses, including fescue, bluegrass, Bermuda, and zoysia. Furthermore, it should not be applied to St. Augustine or centipede grass without checking compatibility. Overall, it offers unmatched convenience for homeowners battling persistent oxalis.

Pros:

• Hose attachment

• Rainproof 1hr

• Large coverage

• 250+ weeds

• No mixing

• Fast results

• Convenient

Cons:

• Not St. Augustine

• Heavy bottle

• Limited control

---

6. Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns – Spot treatment spray for creeping woodsorrel in turf

Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns serves as an effective spot treatment spray for creeping woodsorrel in turf for isolated infestations. Additionally, this ready-to-use formula comes with a comfort wand that allows precise application without bending or kneeling. Consequently, it is ideal for homeowners with small to medium lawns who need to target scattered oxalis patches.

The active ingredients include 2,4-D, dicamba, and mecoprop, which work together to kill over 200 broadleaf weed species. Moreover, the visible results appear within hours, making it satisfying for impatient gardeners. Therefore, it is perfect for spot treating oxalis plants before they have a chance to set seed and spread.

Spectracide Weed Stop is rainproof within one hour and begins wilting oxalis leaves within 24 hours. Furthermore, it is safe for use on both cool-season and warm-season grasses when applied as directed. Overall, it offers convenience and rapid results for casual gardeners.

Pros:

• Ready to use

• Comfort wand

• Fast results

• Rainproof 1hr

• Spot treatment

• 200+ weeds

• Easy handling

Cons:

• Small bottle

• Premium price

• Limited coverage

---

7. BioAdvanced All-In-One Lawn Weed Killer – Professional grade oxalis control for ornamental beds

BioAdvanced All-In-One Lawn Weed Killer delivers professional grade oxalis control for ornamental beds with its hose-end convenience. Additionally, this product contains 2,4-D, dicamba, and quinclorac, which targets over 200 broadleaf weeds including creeping woodsorrel and clover. As a result, it provides comprehensive weed management for both lawns and landscape beds.

The formula is rainproof in just one hour, allowing you to apply it confidently before unpredictable showers. Moreover, it is safe for use around established trees, shrubs, and ornamentals when applied carefully. Therefore, homeowners can treat oxalis growing in mulched beds without damaging desirable plants.

BioAdvanced covers up to 16,000 square feet per bottle, making it highly economical for larger properties. Furthermore, it should not be used on Floratam St. Augustine grass. Overall, it offers professional results with consumer-friendly application.

Pros:

• Hose attachment

• Rainproof 1hr

• Large coverage

• Ornamental safe

• 200+ weeds

• No mixing

• Professional

Cons:

• Not Floratam

• Heavy bottle

• Expensive

---

8. RM43 43% Glyphosate Plus Weed Preventer – Systemic herbicide that kills creeping woodsorrel roots

RM43 43% Glyphosate Plus Weed Preventer is a systemic herbicide that kills creeping woodsorrel roots and prevents regrowth for up to 12 months. Additionally, this industrial-strength formula contains 43% glyphosate combined with a residual pre-emergent barrier. Consequently, it is ideal for total vegetation control on driveways, patios, gravel areas, and fence lines.

The systemic action translocates to the roots of creeping woodsorrel, killing the entire plant including underground stolons and stem fragments. Moreover, the residual component prevents new weeds from germinating for up to one year after application. Therefore, it is the most comprehensive solution for hard surface oxalis infestations.

RM43 is rainproof within two hours and begins showing visible wilting within 5 to 7 days. Furthermore, it is non-selective, meaning it will kill any vegetation it contacts. Overall, it is the heavy-duty choice for total vegetation control.

Pros:

• 43% glyphosate

• 12 months residual

• Root kill

• Rainproof 2hr

• Large coverage

• Industrial strength

• Total control

Cons:

• Non-selective

• Kills everything

• Strong chemical

---

9. Fertilome Weed-Out Lawn Weed Killer – Selective oxalis prevention for flower beds

Fertilome Weed-Out Lawn Weed Killer offers selective oxalis prevention for flower beds with its broadleaf-specific formulation. Additionally, this concentrate contains 2,4-D, dicamba, and MCPP, which work together to target over 100 broadleaf weed species. Consequently, it provides effective control of creeping woodsorrel without harming established lawn grasses.

The formula is safe for use on both northern and southern turf types, including fescue, bluegrass, Bermuda, and zoysia. Moreover, it should be applied when weeds are actively growing and temperatures are mild. Therefore, it is ideal for spring and autumn oxalis control programs.

Fertilome Weed-Out is rainproof within six hours and produces visible results within 7 to 14 days. Furthermore, one pint of concentrate makes up to 40 gallons of finished spray. Overall, it is an economical choice for homeowners with large lawns.

Pros:

• Concentrate

• Large coverage

• Rainproof 6hr

• 100+ weeds

• Turf safe

• Economical

• Broadleaf selective

Cons:

• Weak oxalis

• Needs surfactant

• Slow results

---

10. Monterey LG5600 Spurge Power – Industrial strength fluroxypyr formula for stubborn weeds

Monterey LG5600 Spurge Power rounds out our list as an industrial strength fluroxypyr formula for stubborn weeds including creeping woodsorrel and spurge. Additionally, this ready-to-use spray contains 0.19% fluroxypyr, a systemic herbicide that targets tough broadleaf weeds with waxy leaves. Consequently, it is highly effective against creeping woodsorrel where standard products have failed.

The systemic activity provides complete translocation throughout the oxalis plant, including its extensive creeping stems and root nodes. Moreover, fluroxypyr has excellent turf safety and can be used on both cool-season and warm-season grasses. Therefore, it is ideal for homeowners dealing with resistant oxalis populations.

Monterey Spurge Power is rainfast within four hours and begins showing visible results within 7 to 10 days. Furthermore, the ready-to-use formula requires no mixing, making it convenient for spot treatment. Overall, it is a valuable tool for oxalis resistance management.

Pros:

• Fluroxypyr base

• Ready to use

• Rainfast 4hr

• Systemic action

• Turf safe

• Resistance tool

• Convenient

Cons:

• Small bottle

• Premium price

• Limited coverage

---

Best Herbicide For Creeping Woodsorrel (FAQs)

1. Why won’t standard weed killers kill my creeping woodsorrel?

Creeping woodsorrel has natural resistance to common broadleaf herbicides containing only 2,4-D and MCPP. Products containing triclopyr, fluroxypyr, or dicamba are significantly more effective. Always check the active ingredient list before purchasing.

2. Can I pull creeping woodsorrel instead of using herbicide?

Hand pulling is only effective for very small, young plants before they set seed. Mature oxalis reproduces from root fragments and stem nodes, meaning any piece left in the soil will regrow. Herbicides provide more complete control for established infestations.

3. What is the best time of year to apply herbicide for oxalis?

Apply postemergence herbicides in spring or early autumn when oxalis is actively growing and temperatures range between 15°C and 27°C. Preemergence herbicides must be applied in early spring before soil temperatures reach 13°C and seeds germinate.

4. Will triclopyr kill my lawn grass?

No, triclopyr is selective for broadleaf weeds and is safe for most turfgrasses when applied at labelled rates. However, it should not be used on St. Augustinegrass or centipedegrass without checking the specific product label. Always verify compatibility with your grass type.

5. How does creeping woodsorrel spread so quickly?

Creeping woodsorrel spreads by explosive seed capsules that eject seeds up to 10 feet, by rooting stem fragments that create new plants at each node, and by underground stolons. This triple threat makes it exceptionally aggressive.

6. Is there a preemergence herbicide that stops oxalis seeds?

Yes, products containing pendimethalin, isoxaben, dithiopyr, or trifluralin provide effective preemergence control of oxalis seeds. Apply in early spring before germination begins and water in within 21 days for activation.

7. Can I use the same herbicide in my vegetable garden?

No, most herbicides safe for lawns are not labelled for vegetable gardens. For edible crops, rely on hand pulling, hoeing, or organic mulches. Preen Garden Weed Preventer is one of the few options safe for use around established vegetables.

---

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Southern Ag Surfactant for Herbicides claims the top position as the best herbicide for creeping woodsorrel when used as a tank-mix additive because it transforms mediocre products into highly effective oxalis killers by penetrating waxy leaves. The runner-up is Bonide Weed Beater Ultra Concentrate, chosen for its triclopyr-based formulation that directly targets creeping woodsorrel where standard 2,4-D products consistently fail.

You must assess your specific situation carefully: Southern Ag Surfactant is essential for anyone using any herbicide on oxalis, as the waxy leaf surface requires superior penetration.

Bonide Weed Beater Ultra excels in cool-season home lawns where triclopyr provides the root-killing action oxalis demands. For hard surface total vegetation control, RM43 offers unmatched 12-month prevention alongside systemic root kill.

Do not let creeping woodsorrel take over your lawn and garden beds another season. Choose the right herbicide based on your grass type, infestation size, and comfort level with mixing concentrates. Take action today by ordering a triclopyr-based product and a non-ionic surfactant to ensure proper leaf penetration. Your weed-free, healthy lawn is just one well-chosen application away.