Weeds Are Plants Growing in the Wrong Place

Weeds are plants, too. They don’t get no respect, though, because they’re growing in the wrong place, such as your lawn, garden and even cracks in the pavement. If left untreated, weeds will spread to compete with the grass for space, food and light. In the end, they will ruin the look of your lawn.

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Basically, weeds come in three varieties: grassy, sedge and broadleaf. Some weeds are perennials, which means they can last for more than one growing season, while annuals germinate, flower and die all within one season. Broadleaf weeds, which are characterized by wide, flat leaves, are most common in lawns and gardens. Dandelion, plantain and other broadleaf weeds are among the most common and troublesome turf pest problems in plants.

Summer annual broadleaf weeds start to germinate in early spring. Those beginning to germinate in our area now include crabgrass, dollarweed (also known as pennywort) and goosegrass.

Where Do Lawn Weeds Come From?

Seeds of broadleaf weeds occur naturally in the soil, and can persist for 30 or more years. Low-quality grass seed often contains unwanted weed seed. The weed content of any grass seed you buy should be 0 percent. Finally, weed seeds are sometimes brought to a landscape in top soil or compost.

Broadleaf weeds often occupy areas in landscaping that have been damaged by pests or other factors. Insect pests can thin and weaken turf, allowing weeds to invade the soil. Appropriate pesticides should be applied as necessary. Broadleaf weeds are also found where soil conditions are poor and where there is incorrect maintenance.

How You Can Get Control of the Weeds in Your Turf

While a completely weed-free lawn is nearly impossible, the best way to minimize broadleaf weeds is through proper mowing height and frequency, sensible fertilization and adequate irrigation. Lawn weeds can gain a foothold when your lawn is too short or not mowed often enough; too much or not enough fertilizer, or fertilizing at the wrong time of year; and over or under watering.

Some infestations of broadleaf weeds may require herbicide treatment. Because of the variety of broadleaf weed species, most products have two or more different active ingredients and are sold as prepackaged mixtures. Before choosing a herbicide, however, it is important to first identify the type of weed with which you’re dealing so that you can choose the right product. There are many online resources to assist you with identification. The experts at Insect Protection Pest Control are also available to help you with identification and treatment options.

• Herbicides should be applied only when environmental conditions are adequate for control.
• Watch wind speeds to avoid drift.
• Apply herbicides only when the temperature is between 65°F and 85°F.
• Do not apply if rain is expected within 24 hours.
• Don’t mow for a few days prior to or after applying.
• When possible, make spot applications to avoid unnecessary herbicide use.

Finally, don’t ignore treatment in the fall when many perennial broadleaf weeds are actively growing.

Control of pests outdoors is the first step to controlling them indoors. Using environmentally-approved and pet-friendly methods and treatments, the professionals at Insect Protection Pest Control can develop a plan to control both weeds and other pests that’s right for you. Call them today for a FREE consultation.

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