Lawn Weeds

Weed management is probably the most time consuming and frustrating task facing North Shore gardeners. It seems there are always weeds to remove, no matter how hard we try to keep them at bay. Plants we define as weeds will always be part of our garden landscapes and it is not realistic to try to eliminate them completely. Attempts to do so usually involve frequent herbicide applications that have unacceptable adverse effects on the North Shore environment and us. However, we can minimize their impacts by following a few simple strategies and tips.

The key to ongoing weed management in lawns is preventing, and correcting, conditions that stress turf plants in the first place. When weed populations exceed tolerance levels in turf it usually means that the grass has been thinned out by poor conditions, such as drought, compaction, poor drainage, mowing too low, etc. Any openings in the turf will be colonized by weeds adapted to those conditions.

It may take a little practice and sleuthing but eventually you will be able to learn why certain weeds love your lawn and some don’t and take steps to correct the conditions. For more info on weeds as indicators of stress conditions in lawns, click here.

Weed Control Using Mechanical Methods

If your lawn has some weed coverage then remove weeds by hand or a weeding tool (link to tools below) and overseed exposed soil areas. Be sure top-dress your lawn with compost in the fall as this will help to increase the soil’s fertility.

Ultimately, a strong, densely planted lawn helps prevent weeds from getting established in the first place – so if your lawn is well-established and healthy continue to practice natural lawn care.

Click here for tips on how to deal with common lawn weeds like dandelions, morning glory, clover and moss.

If buttercups are a problem, improve soil drainage by aerating at least twice a year. Physical removal is not recommended as the plant may reestablish from stem fragments so if you try this care should be taken to assure that all plant fragments are removed. Good turf management practices, including a liming and fertilization program, will encourage a dense stand of turf and make it difficult for buttercups to become established.