To effectively manage wood sorrel, which of the following methods is recommended?

Hand-pulling or hoeing is an effective method for managing wood sorrel primarily because it directly removes the plant from the soil before it can flower and produce seeds. This method is particularly advantageous for controlling small infestations or for weeds in garden beds and landscapes, as it reduces the chance of these plants spreading further.

When hand-pulling, it’s crucial to ensure that the entire root is removed, as wood sorrel can regenerate from root fragments left in the ground. This physical removal helps to prevent the continued presence of wood sorrel and can be very effective when done consistently, especially before the plants have the chance to mature and seed.

Other methods mentioned, like applying water or using synthetic fertilizers, do not address the issue of wood sorrel and can sometimes exacerbate weed problems by promoting growth conditions that favor unwanted plants. Similarly, spraying fungicides is ineffective against wood sorrel, as it is not a fungus but rather a type of broadleaf weed. Therefore, the hand-pulling or hoeing method stands out as the recommended approach for managing wood sorrel effectively.