Weeds germinate in the summer when your lawn is stressed by heat, humidity, and drought. To understand summer weed control, you must first understand the two main groups of weeds you’ll encounter.
Two Main Groups of Weeds
Weeds fall into two major groups:
- Grassy Weeds. Grassy weeds, like crabgrass, are harder to control because they look just like grass. Once you notice them, it’s too late to stop them from germinating but not treating them.
- Broadleaf Weeds. Broadleaf Weeds. Broadleaf weeds such as dandelion, ground ivy, and white clover are easier to identify and control.
Summer Weed Control Tips
The key to proper summer weed control is early prevention and year-round maintenance. Battle summer weeds with these tips.
Early Prevention
Early Prevention is key to summer weed control. Common weeds such as crabgrass and dandelions spread their seed in the fall. They lay dormant until the rising temperatures and increased spring and summer sunshine help them germinate. Pre-emergent herbicides can help make a huge dent in weed control. When applied at the appropriate time, it will coat the seeds and prevent them from sprouting.
Hand Weeding
Hand weeding is the best defense on small lawns where the number of weeds isn’t overwhelming. And it’s most effective against annual broadleaf weeds. When hand weeding, get a good grip on the whole plant. If you can pull the root out, you’re less likely to see it again. But if you pull the top off, it will likely grow back. Keep the lawn healthy once the weed is gone to discourage weed growth.
Maintain a Healthy Lawn
Some weeds are indicators of poor growing conditions. For example, clover grows in low-nitrogen soil, which means the grass needs fertilization. Ground ivy grows well in the shade. Keeping shrubs pruned properly to allow for more sunlight can help reduce their regrowth.
Weed and Feed
Use products or lawn care services that keep weeds away and feed your grass. Proper fertilization guards against more weeds popping up. Use weed and feed in June and July to create the best growing environment.
Healthy Lawns are Weed-Free Lawns
Weed seeds need plenty of sunlight to sprout. That’s why they seem to take over bare spots. However, if you keep your lawn healthy with proper lawn care maintenance, it should grow thick enough to keep the sunlight from reaching those seedlings embedded in the soil.
Professional lawn care service is the best summer weed control for any home or office. Call the Nichols Reliable Lawn Care & More team for a hassle and weed-free lawn year-round. 479.502.2192