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Broadleaf Weeds - Bermuda Lawn - Wild Onion

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Photo: emoyer.com

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Photo: hgic.clemson.edu

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Photo: greenviewfertilizer.com

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Photo: walterreeves.com

Wild Onion

Identification

Common Name: Wild Onion, Wild Garlic

Latin Name: Allium canadense (wild onion), Allium vineale (wild garlic)

Family: Amaryllidaceae

Life Cycle: Perennial

Type: Broadleaf (bulbous)

What Is It?

Wild onion is a perennial, bulb-forming weed with hollow, waxy leaves that grow upright from underground bulbs. When crushed, the leaves have a strong onion or garlic odor. It spreads by bulbs and bulblets, making it persistent in lawns, pastures, and unmanaged turf.

This is a perennial weed. Pre-emergent herbicides do not control existing perennial weeds.

Soil Temperature & Germination

Wild onion growth begins during cool soil conditions.

  • Below 55°F: Active growth begins

  • Cool seasons: Continued growth and spread

Decision Question

Is the wild onion visible above the soil right now?

YES, It is already established

➡ Go to: Post-Emergent Herbicide BMP

NO, It has not emerged

➡ Go to: Pre-Emergent Herbicide BMP
(Pre-emergent may reduce new seedlings but will not control established bulbs.)

Why This Weed Comes Back

  • Underground bulbs and bulblets

  • Missed fall or winter control

  • Thin or stressed turf

Learn the Basics

➡ Link: Lawn Care 101 BMP

 

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