"Broadback" wrote in message
...
I have a number of beds in a "wild" lawn, I wish to keep the lawn this
way as I love to see what wild plants grow. However my beds are
becoming infested with a weed that spreads through its root system. I
suspect that when I clean the beds any little bit of root grows and
develops into plants, anyway, if not, it certainly spreads in from the
surrounding grassed area. Firstly can someone identify it please from
these photos? I have attempted but failed. Hangs head in shame.

http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e2...back/Weed1.jpg
http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e2...back/Weed2.jpg

Secondly any suggestions for control? The only thing I can think of is
to edge the beds with a gravel path keeping that free from weeds with
weed killer, however maybe the roots would travel underneath the path.

Sheep's Sorrel can be quite a nuisence but its close relative, the
Common Sorrel, is not so frequent in turf. They will only survive in
acid conditions, but liming is not the answer. Use a weedkiller and
feed regularly to control them.

I think that it is Sheep's Sorrel that you have got, but also compare it
with Common Sorrel. The leaf of Sheep's Sorrel is arrow-shaped with
distinct spreading lobes at the base. Usually turns red in the summer.

The leaf of Common Sorrel is oblong with ears at the base. The lobes
point downwards. Turns red in late summer.

Any product containing MCPA or 2, 4-D (If still available) will see them
off. Best to apply in late spring and repeat the treatment a month
later.

Regards,
Emrys Davies.