Wireweed
Wireweed is a problem weed of compact soils like goalmouths
Jerry Spencer 
Wireweed (Polygonum aviculare) is also known as Prostrate Knotweed, and Knotgrass, and is a common weed of amenity turf. It favours worn, and compact soils, and is common on council sports grounds. Control of this weed can be very difficult.
It thrives in areas that are irrigated, is very wear resistant, and you often find it in compact goal mouths on sports fields.
After you read this you will be able to:
- Identify Wireweed.
- Know its habitat and lifecycle.
- Know the best options to control it.
Why is Wireweed a Problem?
- It forms dense vegetative mats, and has a strong, deep taproot.
- This weed spreads quickly, and outcompetes other plants for water, nutrients, and light.
- Once it gets established it is difficult to control.
- It produces large numbers of seeds, that can remain viable for several years.
- It has a tendency to be a problem at the most inconvenient time. It often tends to germinate when you try to establish turf.
- This weed is allelopathic to Couchgrass. It inhibits seed germination, and the growth of seedlings.
- It is often mistaken for Spotted Spurge or Common Purslane. This can make Wireweed control more difficult.
- Knotweed causes dermatitis in sheep and humans. Horses and stock that eat large amounts of seed may develop enteritis.
