Learning About Landscaping Materials

Posted on: 28 March 2018

Lack of water and soaring temperatures can be hard on your lawn. Often, the turf grass suffers and weeds move to take over. Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent this. The following weed control tips can help keep your lawn green all summer long.

Tip #1: Reseed patchy areas

In late spring or early summer, before the real heat arrives, take some time to honestly assess your lawn. Do you have patchy areas where the grass is much thinner? If so, these are going to be the first areas that weeds will invade. Spread some compost or topsoil mixed with grass seed over the thin areas, and keep the soil moist until the grass seeds sprout and establish. The result is thicker grass that doesn't have room for weeds to take root.

Tip #2: Address the pathways

Many people tend to walk the same path over and over, eventually wearing down an area of grass. This may kill the grass, but weeds can still thrive in the compacted, trafficked soil. If you can't prevent others from walking this path, then embrace it. Install stepping stones or pavers to create an actual path through your lawn and cut down on the chances of having a weedy way.

Tip #3: Apply a broadleaf weed killer

Most lawn weeds are classified as broadleaf weeds, since they have broad leaves instead of blades like grass. There are herbicides available that specifically target these weeds. Apply them in late spring or early summer for the best effect. This way, you kill the weeds before they go to seed. Also, this ensures the herbicide doesn't burn grass that could be suffering from heat or drought distress later in the season.

Tip #4: Water properly

A healthy lawn is better at resisting weeds. In the midst of summer, moisture is the most important aspect for healthy turf grass. Don't overwater, since this can actually weaken grass by encouraging it to have shallow roots. Instead, water deeply two or three times a week. A deep watering should moisten the soil to a 6- to 8-inch depth. This results in grass developing a deep, dense mat of roots, which leaves no room in the soil for a weed to take root.

Tip #5: Raise your mower blade

Many homeowners cut their grass toi short, which gives rise to weeds. Instead, make sure the grass is never cut lower than 3 to 4 inches in height. The taller grass shades the soil, which results in less moisture loss and healthier root systems. It can also shade out weeds that try to germinate, since they won't receive sufficient sunlight.

For more help, contact a lawn service in your area