Winning the War on Lawn Weeds

A few weeds are normal; a takeover means your grass is struggling. Fix the grass, and weeds lose their foothold.

Strengthen the Turf First

• Water deeply (200 mm) infrequently—builds deep roots.
• Fix drainage if waterlogged.
• Fertilize appropriately for your grass type.
• Mow weekly—removes flower stems before seed set.

Spot-Treat, Don't Broadcast

Most weeds in a healthy lawn are isolated. Dig them out or spot-spray with a pump sprayer. Walk backwards, nozzle close, low pressure. Add food coloring or surfactant to track coverage.

Herbicide Rules

• Read the label. Never exceed rates.
• ID your grass—some types (e.g., St. Augustine) are injured by MCPA/dicamba.
• Keep pets/kids off until dry.
• Don't use "weed-and-feed"—timing conflicts, over-application, drift risk.

Stubborn Weeds Need Targeted Timing

Example: Lawn burweed (Soliva) requires a specific pre-emergent window. Consult your local extension for problem weeds.

Persistence Pays

Kill weeds before they seed. Next spring's problem shrinks dramatically.