Controlling Summer Weeds: Effective Strategies

Crabgrass

Crabgrass is a low-growing annual weed that spreads quickly in thin or bare areas of your lawn. It’s characterized by its coarse texture and light green color.

Dandelions

These familiar yellow flowers may seem cheerful, but they can quickly take over your lawn. Dandelions have deep taproots that make them challenging to remove completely.

Thistle

Thistles are easily recognizable by their prickly leaves and purple flowers. They can grow quite tall and are particularly troublesome in neglected areas.

White Clover

While some consider clover beneficial, it can become invasive in lawns. White clover is identified by its three-leaf structure and small white flowers.

Pre-Emergent Weed Control Strategies

One of the most effective ways to manage summer weeds is to prevent them from sprouting in the first place. This is where pre-emergent herbicides come into play as part of a comprehensive lawn care plan.

Timing is Everything

Pre-emergent herbicides should be applied in early spring, before soil temperatures reach 55°F. This is typically when forsythia bushes begin to bloom in Pataskala.

Proper Application

For best results, apply pre-emergent herbicides evenly across your lawn using a calibrated spreader. Water the lawn thoroughly after application to activate the herbicide.

Choosing the Right Product

Select a pre-emergent herbicide that targets the specific weeds common in your area. Some products may also include fertilizer, providing a dual benefit for your lawn.

Photo suggestion: An image of a lush, weed-free lawn with a person applying pre-emergent herbicide in the foreground.

Our professional lawn care and weed control experts will select the correct herbicide for your lawn and apply it at just the right time, ensuring control over those pesky weeds.

Post-Emergent Weed Control Methods

Despite your best prevention efforts, some weeds may still appear in your lawn. Post-emergent herbicides are designed to tackle these established weeds.

Selective vs. Non-Selective Herbicides

Selective herbicides target specific types of weeds without harming grass, while non-selective herbicides kill all vegetation they contact. Choose carefully based on your weed problem and lawn composition.

Spot Treatment

For isolated weed problems, spot treatment with a liquid herbicide can be effective. Ensure you spray directly on the weed, avoiding contact with desirable plants.

Blanket Application

If weeds are widespread, a blanket application may be necessary. This method covers the entire lawn but should only be used with selective herbicides to avoid damaging your grass.

Photo suggestion: A split-screen image showing spot treatment on one side and blanket application on the other, highlighting the difference in approaches.

Natural and Cultural Control Methods

While herbicides can be effective, there are also natural and cultural methods to control weeds as part of a holistic lawn care approach.

Proper Mowing Practices

Maintaining the correct mowing height for your grass type can help shade out weed seedlings. For most cool-season grasses in Ohio, aim for a height of 3.5 to 4.0 inches.

Overseeding

Filling in bare or thin spots in your lawn with grass seed can prevent weeds from taking hold. Fall is typically the best time for overseeding in Ohio.

Soil Health

Healthy soil promotes strong grass growth, which naturally crowds out weeds. Regular soil testing and appropriate fertilization can improve your lawn’s resistance to weed invasion.