What is this weed?

becksdavidson

We have just come back from holiday and found this weed growing on our lawn. Does anyone know what it is? There are about 5 or 6 plants and it has deep roots. i am not sure what to do with it! Thanks so much 

Ceres

Looks similar to this monster. http://www.gardenersworld.com/forum/problem-solving/help-little-trees-growing-everywhere/987095.html

BobTheGardener

It might be the one Ceres said if there is any evidence of thorns but I suspect it is snowberry which is also well known for sending out suckers:

http://www.gardenersworld.com/forum/thread/?threadId=980161

becksdavidson

thanks for the help all.

It does have thorns.  Some plants seem to have small independent roots.  Others are sprouting from a large root running horizontally under the lawn

Dovefromabove

Just cut them down to the ground then keep mowing - the roots will run out of energy eventually.  You've probably not noticed them before because you were mowing them off when they were tiny ... then you went on holiday.