How to Get Rid of Doveweed Without RoundUp
🌿 A Safer Plan to Wipe It Out Doveweed and Start Fresh
🧑🌾 Real Question from a Local Homeowner
Q: “I have tried every year to get weeds under control in my yard, mostly doveweed. I have one side of my yard covered in this. I’m ready to kill this area and replant. Is there a better way?”
— Mike Murphey, Houston TX on June 16, 2025
Tired of doveweed taking over your Houston lawn? Garden Guy Todd Farber explains how to eliminate it safely — without using RoundUp — and how to replant the right way.
🌱 Todd Farber’s Answer
Doveweed is one of the most persistent warm-season weeds in Houston. It spreads aggressively, loves moist soil, and will return every year if not handled with a full strategy. Here's how to wipe it out and start fresh — without using glyphosate-based products like RoundUp.
🌿 A Safer Plan to Wipe It Out and Start Fresh
1. Kill It — Without Glyphosate
Use a natural, non-selective herbicide like:
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Bonide BurnOut (citric acid + clove oil)
Avenger Weed Killer (d-limonene/orange oil)
These organic formulas won’t stay in the soil but will burn down the doveweed quickly. Plan for 2–3 applications to fully knock it back.
2. Wait & Watch
Water the area once after the first treatment. Wait several days. If anything green pops back up — treat it again. You're aiming to eliminate any regrowth before putting down new sod.
3. Replant with Strong Sod
Choose the right turfgrass for your conditions:
St. Augustine for shady or partial sun areas
Zoysia for full sun and thicker texture
Once the area has been weed-free for about 10 days, install fresh sod or reseed.
4. Prevent the Comeback
Apply corn gluten meal or a pre-emergent like Barricade in early spring and again in late summer
Water deeply but infrequently to promote healthy roots
Topdress the area with compost to improve drainage and reduce compaction
📸 Want Help Choosing Sod or Planning the Next Step?
Todd is a Texas A&M horticulture graduate and owner of Garden Guy, beautifying Houston yards since 1991. He’s the voice behind Ask Garden Guy, giving honest answers without the radio static.
📞 281-208-4400
We offer local guidance based on sun exposure, soil condition, and long-term care. You can ask your own question (and send photos or videos) using the link below:
👉 Get Help from Todd – Ask Garden Guy
About Todd Farber
Todd is a Texas A&M horticulture graduate and owner of Garden Guy, beautifying Houston yards since 1991. He’s the voice behind Ask Garden Guy, giving honest answers without the radio static.
📞 281-208-4400
📧 hello@garden-guy.com
