Controlling Catchweed Bedstraw: Persistent Annual Weed with Sticky Stems

Q: I have a pesky weed I can't identify. It feels "sticky" to the touch. I dug it up, ensuring no roots left, but it came back! Identify and suggest control.

You have catchweed bedstraw. It's an annual from seed each year. Seeds remain dormant in soil for several years—that's why it never disappears.

Pull conscientiously every year and it will eventually go away. Or use a landscape pre-emergent containing dithiopyr (Preen Weed Preventer for Southern Gardens).

See also Organic Weed Killers.