Puncture vine, also known as goathead, is an invasive weed that can quickly take over lawns, gardens, and fields. Its thorny seed pods can be a nuisance, causing damage to pets, tires, and shoes. This aggressive weed is notoriously difficult to control, but with the right herbicide, you can effectively manage its spread and keep it from becoming a problem in your yard.

In this guide, we will review the best herbicides for puncture vine control, offering options that target this tough weed without damaging your surrounding plants. Whether you need a selective or non-selective herbicide, these products can help you effectively eliminate puncture vine from your garden or lawn.

Best Herbicides for Puncture Vine

1. Spectracide Weed & Grass Killer

Spectracide Weed & Grass Killer is a non-selective herbicide that works rapidly to kill puncture vine and other weeds. Its fast-acting formula dehydrates plants quickly, leading to visible results within hours of application.

This product is ideal for small infestations of puncture vine, especially in garden beds, sidewalks, and driveways. However, caution should be exercised when using it around desirable plants, as it is non-selective and can damage any vegetation it contacts.

2. Roundup (Glyphosate)

Roundup (Glyphosate) is another popular non-selective herbicide that effectively targets puncture vine. It works by inhibiting the plant’s ability to synthesize proteins, leading to its death over time.

Roundup is especially useful for large infestations of puncture vine and can be applied directly to the foliage for optimal results. Be mindful of overspray, as it will harm other plants if they come into contact with the herbicide.

3. Preen Garden Weed Preventer

Preen Garden Weed Preventer is a selective herbicide that works by preventing the germination of puncture vine seeds. It is an excellent pre-emergent option, preventing the weed from sprouting in the first place.

Preen is ideal for use in garden beds, around ornamental plants, and in flower beds, where you want to stop the seeds from taking root. For best results, it should be applied before the weed seeds have germinated.

4. Garlon 4

Garlon 4 is a selective herbicide designed for woody plants, but it is also effective on perennial weeds like puncture vine. This herbicide works by disrupting the plant’s ability to grow and thrive.

Garlon 4 is especially useful for long-term control of puncture vine, especially in large areas with a persistent weed problem. However, it should be used with care, as it can harm desirable plants if not applied correctly.

5. Weed-B-Gon (2,4-D)

Weed-B-Gon is a selective herbicide that targets broadleaf weeds, including puncture vine, without harming grasses. It contains the active ingredient 2,4-D, which interferes with the weed’s growth process, leading to its eventual death.

Weed-B-Gon is effective for use on lawns and other turf areas where puncture vine is a problem. It is especially useful for treating large patches of puncture vine without damaging grass or other desirable plants.

6. Ortho GroundClear Weed & Grass Killer

Ortho GroundClear Weed & Grass Killer is a non-selective herbicide that targets puncture vine and other weeds. It works by killing both the roots and foliage of plants, making it ideal for spot treatments in areas affected by puncture vine.

This product is effective in both residential and commercial applications, especially in areas where you need quick results. However, it can damage any plants it comes into contact with, so care should be taken to avoid desirable plants.

7. Southern Ag 2,4-D

Southern Ag 2,4-D is a selective herbicide that works well against broadleaf weeds like puncture vine. It is ideal for use in lawns and turf where you want to eliminate weeds without harming the grass.

This herbicide is effective for both pre- and post-emergent control, helping to keep puncture vine from taking root and spreading. It is a great option for large lawn areas or fields affected by puncture vine infestations.

8. Quinclorac 75 DF

Quinclorac 75 DF is a selective herbicide that is effective against a wide range of broadleaf and grassy weeds, including puncture vine. It is especially useful in turfgrass areas, as it can control a variety of weeds without damaging the grass.

This product is slow-acting, so it may take a few weeks to see results, but it offers long-term control and is an excellent choice for large-scale lawn applications.

9. PBI/Gordon 746200 SpeedZone

PBI/Gordon 746200 SpeedZone is a selective herbicide designed for controlling broadleaf weeds like puncture vine in lawns, golf courses, and parks. It works quickly, showing visible results within a few days of application.

SpeedZone is ideal for use in warm-season grasses and other turf areas. It provides effective control without damaging grass or ornamental plants.

10. Green Light 74680 Weed & Grass Killer

Green Light 74680 Weed & Grass Killer is a non-selective herbicide that eliminates puncture vine and other weeds quickly. It is ideal for spot treatments in areas where you need fast results.

This herbicide is great for use around driveways, sidewalks, and fence lines, but care should be taken to avoid contact with desirable plants.

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Herbicide for Puncture Vine

When selecting an herbicide for puncture vine, consider the following factors:

1. Selectivity

Decide whether you need a selective herbicide, which targets only broadleaf weeds like puncture vine, or a non-selective herbicide, which will kill any vegetation it contacts. Products like Weed-B-Gon and Southern Ag 2,4-D are selective, while Roundup and Spectracide are non-selective.

2. Pre-Emergent vs. Post-Emergent

If you are dealing with newly sprouted puncture vine, a pre-emergent herbicide like Preen Garden Weed Preventer is ideal. For established infestations, post-emergent herbicides like Roundup and Garlon 4 will be more effective.

3. Safety and Environmental Impact

Always consider the safety of the product, especially if you have pets or children. Some herbicides may be more toxic than others, so be sure to follow all label instructions to minimize environmental impact.

4. Application Method

Some herbicides require you to spray directly onto the foliage, while others are applied to the soil or as a pre-emergent. Choose the herbicide that fits your specific needs based on how you prefer to apply it.

5. Speed of Action

If you need fast results, opt for a quick-acting herbicide like Spectracide or Roundup. For long-term control, choose slower-acting options like Southern Ag 2,4-D or Garlon 4.

Conclusion:

Controlling puncture vine requires the right herbicide to prevent this stubborn weed from spreading in your yard. By choosing from these top herbicides, you can effectively eliminate puncture vine and enjoy a weed-free garden or lawn.

Whether you need a fast-acting solution or long-term control, these herbicides are designed to target puncture vine effectively.

Always follow label directions carefully and consider your surrounding plants before applying herbicide.