Weeds

Contrary to popular belief, weed control DOES NOT have a 100% kill rate.

THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY TO CONTROL LAWN WEEDS IS TO MAINTAIN A THICK TURF.

THE BEST WAY to establish a thick turf is regular AERATING and OVER-SEEDING.

Put down the seeds to crowd out the weeds!

Weeds are divided into groups according to their length of life.

• Perennial weeds have a life of more than 2 years.  They produce new seed every year.
• Biennial weeds have a life of 2 years.  They produce seed in the second year.
• Annual weeds germinate from seed, grow, flower, and produce seed in less than 1 year.
  • Summer annuals germinate in spring and mature in fall
  • Winter annuals germinate in fall or winter and mature in late spring.

Did you know that:

• Weed control cannot be applied in temperatures over 85 degrees.
• Weed control cannot be applied in windy conditions (over 10 mph on site).
• Pre-emergent weed control is put down to help prevent weeds from germinating.
• Post-emergent weed control is applied after the weed has sprouted.
• Weeds are opportunists – they’ll quickly move into any bare spots.
• Weeds, diseases and insect pests are often a symptom that something is wrong (mowing habits, watering habits, soil compaction, too much thatch, lacking a specific nutrient, etc.)
• There are cultural ways to address these problems, which will reduce the need for chemical weed control applications. (see below)

Cultural ways to control weeds.

• Water – A.M. watering is best, so the grass can dry before nightfall.
  • Water deep and less often to encourage deep root growth.
• Mowing – A mowing height of 3 – 3 1/2″ is better for weed control.
  • Keep mower blades sharp so not to injure and weaken grass blades.
• Fertilize – Grass needs nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium to flourish.
• pH – Know your lawns pH.
  • Proper pH strengthens the plant.
  • Having a soil test will help determine your lawns nutritional needs.
• Aerate – Aeration relieves compaction (weeds tolerate compaction much better than grass does).
• De-thatch – Thatch levels over 1/2″ will hinder grass growth and invite insects.
• Over-seed – This will allow grass to grow in bare areas, rather than weeds residing there.

THE MOST EFFECTIVE WAY TO CONTROL LAWN WEEDS IS TO MAINTAIN A THICK TURF.

 THE BEST WAY to establish a thick turf is regular AERATING and OVER-SEEDING.

Call today to schedule a free lawn evaluation (207)767-5555.