🗑️ Weed Control Guide
Identify and eliminate common lawn weeds for good.
The First Rule of Weed Control
A thick, healthy lawn is the best weed prevention. Weeds exploit bare soil, thin grass, and stressed turf. Focus on growing great grass and weeds will struggle to compete.
Common Lawn Weeds
Broadleaf Weeds
| Weed | Appearance | Control |
|---|---|---|
| Dandelion | Yellow flower, puffball seed head | Broadleaf herbicide in fall; dig out taproot |
| Clover | Three-lobed leaf, white flower | Nitrogen-rich fertilizer; broadleaf herbicide |
| Crabgrass | Light green, spreads low | Pre-emergent in spring; pull before seed sets |
| Chickweed | Small leaves, white flowers | Hand pull; pre-emergent in fall |
Grassy Weeds
| Weed | Appearance | Control |
|---|---|---|
| Crabgrass | Coarse, light green, crab-like spread | Pre-emergent (apply when soil hits 55°F) |
| Quackgrass | Tall, rough blades with clasping auricles | Selective herbicide glyphosate spot treatment |
| Nutsedge | V-shaped stems, yellow/purple flower heads | Specialized sedge herbicide |
Pre-Emergent Strategy
Pre-emergents prevent weed seeds from germinating. They don’t kill existing weeds.
- Spring application: Apply when soil temperatures reach 55°F (lilacs blooming)
- Fall application: Apply for winter annual weeds like chickweed and henbit
- Timing is everything: Too early degrades before weeds germinate; too late misses the window
Post-Emergent Strategy
For existing weeds:
- Spot treat rather than broadcast when possible
- Use selective herbicides that kill weeds but spare grass
- Apply on calm, dry days above 60°F
- Don’t mow for 2–3 days before or after application
Natural Weed Control
- Corn gluten meal — natural pre-emergent (apply in spring and fall)
- Vinegar spray (horticultural grade) — spot treat, kills top growth only
- Hand pulling — best for small infestations; get the root
- Solarization — clear plastic over soil for 4–6 weeks in summer
Weed Prevention Calendar
| Season | Task |
|---|---|
| Early spring | Apply pre-emergent; spot treat winter weeds |
| Late spring | Spot treat broadleaf weeds; pull crabgrass |
| Summer | Hand pull; maintain mowing height; water deeply |
| Early fall | Core aerate; overseed; apply pre-emergent |
| Late fall | Final broadleaf treatment; clean up debris |