Three Ways to Keep a Weed-Free Lawn

Keeping a weed-free lawn requires some planning. Before you get started, evaluate the weed problem. A few weeds here and there will require a different strategy than a lawn that has more weeds than grass. Use the following guide to determine the right way to get your lawn in shape.

Guide for a Weed-Free Lawn

Minor Weed Problems

Even the most, well-maintained yards will have a few new weeds each year. When you spot emerging weeds, take care of them quickly to prevent larger problems. The easiest way to do this is to use a spot-killer. Choose an all-purpose herbicide and a good sprayer to get the job done. Target each weed, taking care to spray only the weeds so you don’t end up killing larger areas than necessary. Weeds like dandelions will put all of their energy into blooming and spreading seeds once you have applied the killer, so make sure to remove any flowers and buds.

Larger Weed Problems

When using a spot-killer that will result in dozens of ugly dead patches all over the yard, you will want to take a different approach. The first thing to do is mow the yard at the proper height to promote healthy, strong growth that crowds out existing weeds. Bent grass likes to be cut to 3/4-inch or shorter, while tall fescue or Kentucky bluegrass are best if clipped between 1 ½ to 3 inches.

You should also take care to make sure that your weed-free lawn has the right amount of water, and consider adding regular fertilizing to your lawn care regimen. There are many great weed-and-feed systems that you can use in the spring and fall of the year. These products will give your grass the nutrition it needs, while applying a pre-emergent pesticide to prevent new weeds from sprouting.

Turf Wars: What to Do When Nothing Else Works

When it comes to major weed infestations, there are two ways to deal with it. The first is to kill the entire yard and start over with either new seed or new sod. If you don’t want to go through the hassle and expense, you can opt for the second approach. This strategy involves using a broad-leaf herbicide to kill all weeds. You can find these products at most home improvement stores. Many even offer crabgrass control. Alternatively, you can hire a landscaping service to treat your lawn. Continue using a weed-and-feed system along with regular watering to promote new growth, and your lawn will be the envy of the neighborhood in a season or two.

To learn more on how to have a weed-free lawn, call 805-773-5395 or