Apr 22, 2023
How To Control Weeds in Spring
Spring is a time for growth, rebirth, and new beginnings. Unfortunately, the same can be said for the weeds on your lawn. As the weather warms up and the days get longer, weeds will begin sprouting. If you’re not careful, they can quickly take over and threaten your less resilient plants.
Fortunately, there are several ways to control the growth of weeds.
Let’s take at how to control weeds in spring:
1. Pre-emergent Herbicides
One of the most effective ways to control weeds is to use a pre-emergent herbicide. These herbicides are applied to the lawn before weeds germinate. They create a barrier that prevents weed seeds from taking root in the first place.
When you’re thinking about how to control weeds in spring, pre-emergent herbicides are one of the most effective ways because applying them in spring is when seeds are only starting to germinate.
Before using them, don’t forget to read the package label carefully and follow the directions.
2. Post-emergent Herbicides
What if you’ve already started to see weeds on your lawn? If this is the case, you can use a post-emergent herbicide to kill them. Post-emergent herbicides are applied to the weeds and kill their leaves and stems.
There are a number of different types of post-emergent herbicides available, so choose one that’s been formulated to address the type of weeds you have.
3. Weed Pulling
We know — weed pulling is time-consuming and entails a lot of effort but it still deserves a place on our list because it’s effective and natural. You don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals with this method!
Simply pull the weeds up from their roots, being careful to include the roots that are beneath the soil’s surface.
Weed pulling is most effective when done on a regular basis and before weeds have a chance to become larger.
4. Hand-weeding
Meet weed pulling’s lesser-known cousin: hand-weeding. This is similar to weed pulling, but instead of using your hands, you use a tool called a hand-weeder. Hand-weeders have a sharp blade that you insert into the soil next to the weed. Once it’s positioned correctly, you twist the blade to loosen the weed from its roots.
Hand-weeding is a bit more difficult than weed pulling, but it is more effective as you’re more likely to get the entire root system out.
5. Mulching
Mulching is a great way to prevent weeds from growing on your lawn. Mulch helps suppress weed growth by blocking sunlight and by creating a barrier between the soil and air.
There are a number of different types of mulch available, including bark mulch, wood chips, and compost. Choose a mulch that is appropriate for your climate and one that will complement the look of your lawn.
6. Watering Deeply
Weeds need water to grow, so one way of controlling weeds is to water your lawn deeply and less often. This will help keep the grass healthy and strong. It will also make it more difficult for weeds to germinate.
How deeply should you water? The moisture should go deep enough to reach the roots of your grass. This is usually about 6 inches from the surface.
7. Fertilize Your Lawn
Another great way to control weeds is to fertilize your lawn. Fertilized grass is healthier and more vigorous than unfertilized grass. It’s thus better able to compete with weeds for water and nutrients.
As always, follow the directions on your fertilizer label. Too much fertilizer can make your lawn more susceptible to weed growth!
8. Aerate Your Lawn
The answer to how to control weeds in spring may be as simple as aerating your lawn. Aeration improves drainage and air circulation which can help reduce weed growth. Aerating also helps loosen the soil so it’s more challenging for weeds to grow.
You can do the aerating yourself by renting an aerator or you can hire a professional lawn care company like Visionary Fertilization to do it for you.
Maintain a Healthy Lawn With Visionary Fertilization
Last but certainly not least is to maintain a healthy lawn. A healthy lawn is thick and dense which makes it difficult for weeds to take root and grow.
Mow your lawn regularly, water it deeply and infrequently, and fertilize it properly. You should also aerate your lawn every few years.
By following these tips, you can keep your lawn healthy and weed-free all year long.
If these tips sound like too much effort or you just need some help keeping your lawn weed-free, Visionary Fertilization will be happy to help. Our lawn care services include grass fertilization and grass treatments, lawn pest control, aeration, and more.
Call
586 281 5148 to learn more or
request an estimate.
