How to Control Mimosa Pudica
Mimosa pudica, commonly known as sensitive plant, is a low-growing, creeping, thorny herb. This plant is not particularly hardy and will only overwinter in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 and 11, where average minimum temperatures stay above 30 degrees Fahrenheit. In these areas, sensitive plant can spread quickly due to its prolific seed set -- up to 675 seeds on one plant. If these plants become a problem in your lawn, you can control them using a combination of methods.
Put on gloves and goggles to protect yourself from chemicals. Choose a windless, partly cloudy or cloudy day in spring or summer, when most of the sensitive plants are actively growing.
Spray the foliage of the plants with a ready-to-use herbicide containing the active ingredient triclopyr so the leaves are completely covered, on top and underneath, but not dripping. Try not to touch the leaves of the sensitive plant during application, as they will fold and droop, making them difficult to cover.
Pull the plants out of the ground with a hoe after they start to die, and get rid of the plant material. Wear gloves, long sleeves and pants to protect yourself from the thorns.
Repeat the applications of triclopyr and removal throughout the growing season for sensitive plants that reappear. Continue control until all of the plants are gone, or until they reach a level with which you are satisfied.
- Read the label of the herbicide carefully to determine exactly how to apply it and what precautions you need to take.
Sarah Morse has been a writer since 2009, covering environmental topics, gardening and technology. She holds a bachelor's degree in English language and literature, a master's degree in English and a master's degree in information science.