Yellow wood sorrel (Oxalis stricta) is a common lawn invader with trifoliate leaves and yellow blossoms that can quickly spread across grass, beds, and borders. While it may look ornamental, this little weed competes with turf for nutrients and moisture, compromising lawn quality. Finding the best weed killer for yellow wood sorrel is essential for restoring your lawn’s health and uniform appearance.

Oxalis weeds are shallow-rooted but prolific in seed production, so both post-emergent and targeted spot treatments are usually required. Selective herbicides that don’t harm turfgrass are recommended for lawns, whereas more aggressive treatments might be needed for landscape beds or bare areas. This guide reviews effective solutions chemical and natural for sorrel control.

Below are the top 10 best weed killers for yellow wood sorrel, selected for their effectiveness, turf safety, ease of application, and environmental impact. Whether you need broad lawn coverage or spot treatment, we’ve got a solution tailored to your needs.

Top 10 Best Weed Killers for Yellow Wood Sorrel

1. Tenacity Herbicide

Mesotrione-based Tenacity works as a pre- and post-emergent on yellow wood sorrel without harming many grass types. It suppresses photosynthesis, causing weeds to fade within days. Apply early in spring or fall for best control.

It requires a non-ionic surfactant and rainproofs in about an hour. Temporary bleaching of turf may occur. Safe for overseeding situations.

Great for integrated programs. Not ideal for edible gardens. Follow label strictly for dosage.

2. Ortho Weed B Gon Weed Killer for Lawns

This selective broadleaf herbicide targets yellow wood sorrel without damaging turf. Contains 2,4-D, dicamba, and MCPP. Visible results usually appear in a few days.

Apply during active growth in spring or early fall. Rainproof within one hour. Use hose-end or tank sprayer for even coverage.

Safe for most turf types when used correctly. Avoid mowing 1–2 days before and after. Keep children and pets off until dry.

3. Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D Weed Killer

Cost-effective concentrate that targets yellow wood sorrel in lawns. Dilutes with water for use in hand-held sprayers. Best for larger lawn or landscape areas.

Rainproof in about 6 hours, with visible decline in 7–10 days. Apply in calm, mild weather. Mix thoroughly before application.

Wear protective gloves and eyewear. Keep off treated turf until dry. Reapply if reinfestation occurs.

4. Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns

This product kills over 200 broadleaf weeds, including yellow wood sorrel. Contains 2,4-D, dicamba, and MCPP. Safe for most warm- and cool-season grasses.

Rainproof within six hours. Comes in spray or concentrate format. Spot treatment is effective for small patches.

Don’t mow two days before or after treatment. Follow label directions exactly. Use protective equipment during spraying.

5. BioAdvanced All-in-One Lawn Weed & Crabgrass Killer

Dual-action formula kills yellow wood sorrel and grassy weeds like crabgrass. Contains quinclorac, 2,4-D, and dicamba. Works safely on many turf types.

Best applied when temperatures are below 85°F. Rainproof in one hour. Avoid applying on newly seeded turf.

Great for mixed-weed situations. Use hose-end sprayer for larger lawns. Store away from direct sunlight.

6. Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer

OMRI-listed vinegar spray quickly burns yellow wood sorrel foliage. It’s chemical-free and ideal for organic lawns. Visible results within 24–48 hours.

Apply on a sunny, calm day. Not rainproof—avoid rain immediately post-treatment. Spot treat for best safety.

May need several applications. Avoid contact with desirable plants. Gloves recommended during use.

7. RM43 Total Vegetation Control

Glyphosate + imazapyr formula provides long-term control in non-turf areas. Kills existing sorrel and prevents re-growth. Ideal for cracks, driveways, or landscape beds.

Apply directly to weeds using a sprayer. Keep area dry after application. Not suitable for lawns—non-selective.

Great for hardscapes and borders. Use full PPE when applying. Store locked away.

8. Natural Armor Weed & Grass Killer

This biodegradable vinegar and salt formula kills sorrel on contact. Safe for pets and kids when dry. Effective for spot spraying.

Visible browning within hours. No mixing required. Repeat if regrowth occurs.

Avoid spraying near desired plants. Store in a cool, shaded area. Gloves recommended.

9. Preen Garden Weed Preventer

Pre-emergent treatment helps block yellow wood sorrel seeds from germinating. Use pre-season in garden beds. Offers protection for up to 3 months.

Apply evenly and water lightly to activate. Doesn’t kill existing weeds. Combine with spot treatments.

Wear gloves during application. Safe around ornamentals. Reapply each growing season.

10. Ortho GroundClear Weed & Grass Killer

Glyphosate concentrate that kills sorrel to the root. Effective in hardscapes, gardens, and fence lines. Results appear in 6–12 hours.

Dilute properly and avoid overspray. Not safe for lawns—non-selective action. Rainproof before next rain.

Great for spot control on non-turf areas. Protective gloves and gear advised. Store securely.

Buyer’s Tips for Controlling Yellow Wood Sorrel

1. Identify the Area: Use selective herbicides on turf; non-selective sprays on borders, drives, patios.
2. Choose Timing Based on Growth: Best to treat in spring or fall when sorrel is actively growing.
3. Ensure Turf Safety: Confirm product is labeled safe for your specific grass type.
4. Use Targeted Application: Spot spray small areas to reduce chemical use and protect desirable plants.
5. Check Weather Conditions: Apply in calm, dry weather and wait for recommended rain‑fast timing.
6. Follow Label Rates: Measure concentrates accurately to avoid turf damage or ineffective treatment.
7. Monitor & Repeat: Inspect treated areas and retreat if you see new sprouts after several weeks.

7 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Will vinegar kill yellow wood sorrel? Yes, but only foliage—it won’t prevent reinfestation.
2. Can I overseed after spot-treating? Yes—wait until treatment is complete and follow re-entry guidance.
3. Are selective herbicides effective? Yes—products with 2,4-D or MCPP work well against sorrel in lawns.
4. Do I need a pre-emergent? It helps—but use alongside post-emergents for complete control.
5. Will glyphosate damage my grass? Yes—itʼs non-selective and should only be used off-lawn.
6. When should I treat next season? Reapply pre-emergent in late winter to prevent spring germination.
7. Is sorrel harmful? Itʼs mostly cosmetic but can choke out desirable turf if unchecked.

Conclusion

Yellow wood sorrel is manageable with timely, targeted herbicide use. For lawns, selective treatments like Tenacity, Weed B Gon, or Spectracide offer safe and effective control. In landscape beds or hardscapes, heavier options like RM43 or GroundClear provide thorough elimination. Implementing pre-emergent measures and monitoring will help prevent recurring outbreaks. With the right tools and strategy, you can keep your lawn and landscapes sorrel-free season after season.