Category Archives: Weeds

The Best Hose End Sprayers for Your Lawn (and More!) – A Buyer’s Guide

February 9, 2023 Lawn Guru Leave a comment

Have you ever found yourself watering your lawn with a hose in one hand and a heavy, awkward sprinkler in the other?

Have you ever wished there was an easier way to water your lawn without lugging around a heavy hose and Attachment?

Have you ever wondered, do hose end sprayers work?

If so, then you’ll be glad to know that hose end sprayers exist, and yes, they work!

In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the best hose end sprayers on the market and provide a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right one for your needs.

Whether you’re looking for something to water your lawn or wash your car, we’ve got you covered. Let’s get started!

Why you need a hose end sprayer

A hose end sprayer is an invaluable tool for anyone with a lawn, patio, garden beds, shrubs or trees to maintain. Not only can fertilizer and water be applied evenly and efficiently, but you can also use this device to wash your car and more (but, never without washing thoroughly between uses and/or having a dedicated sprayer for each type of job!!)!

By adding soap and other special detergents to the solution in the hose end sprayer, it’s easy to keep outdoor furnishings clean as well as keep patios, walkways, and even roofs free of debris.

Plus, a hose end sprayer helps with controlling weeds easier by allowing you to target specific areas with just the right amount of weed control/weed killer – no more over spraying chemicals on lawns or gardens.

Finally, a hose end sprayer is perfect for fertilizer applications as it allows even coverage of herbicides throughout your yard for optimum nutrient uptake without much effort on your part. Simply fill the sprayer bottle with your product (in the right amount–make sure you read the label!), adjust the metering dial, pick one of the spray patterns, and you’re on your way!

These sprayers are designed to dilute the product and deliver just the right amount needed by pulling product/concentrate from the reservoir, and mixing with the stream of water coming through the hose so that it sprays in a consistent amount (this limits application error, and makes for a very efficient application vs. other methods).

All-in-all, having a hose end sprayer on hand can save you time, money and effort while making your home look its best!

Different types of hose end sprayers

Hose end sprayers are an essential tool for many households and gardening jobs, so it’s important to choose the right one for your unique needs.

When deciding which type of sprayer to buy, consider the material it’s made of, the capacity of the tank, the number of mix ratios, fixed rate or adjustable flow settings, and any special features that suit your particular application.

If you’re spraying harsh chemicals then look for a model made from a material that won’t break down on contact.

For general lawn or garden use, a sprayer with adjustable flow settings will give you complete control over how much material is released per spray.

If you need to stick with a fixed rate then make sure it can be set accurately depending on what material you’re using. If you require certain chemical mix ratios then opt for a sprayer with multiple mix ratios included, so you don’t have to manually measure out ingredients every time.

Lastly, unless you are looking for something very specific/custom, make sure your sprayer connects to a standard garden hose (most do; in fact, many models come with a quick connect release feature and super easy instructions on how to get up and running).

How to choose the best hose end sprayer for your needs

With an endless array of hose end sprayers on the market, it can be difficult to select the one that best suits your needs. It’s important to consider spray distance, trigger styles, ergonomics, and durability when narrowing down your choices.

And, if you plan to spray fertilizer, pesticides, or other chemical mixtures, it’s important that you look for a sprayer with accurate adjustments.

If you’re looking for a powerful nozzle, then opt for one with a large diameter and high flow rate. For those seeking convenience and hands-free operation, time-release nozzles provide the solution. Ultimately, the right nozzle will cater to both your requirements and budget. Researching and reading reviews before making a purchase will help ensure you get exactly what you need!

The top three hose end sprayers on the market

Finding the right hose end sprayer for your gardening projects can often be a challenge, but if you’re in the market for one, there are three models that consistently make the top of recommended lists. Ortho Dial N Spray is a great option for avid gardeners, due to its adjustable settings and large container size. Chameleon is a lesser-known model, yet it has been touted as highly efficient and easy to use. Finally, Chapin International G390 has been lauded as a reliable choice that delivers superior performance on even the toughest jobs. Whichever one you purchase, all three of these hose end sprayers should get the job done with quality results.

Hose-End Sprayer Review

Ortho Dial N Spray – Premium Overall Choice!

The Ortho Dial N Spray hose end sprayer is the perfect tool for any gardener or DIY enthusiast looking to make their job easier.

This high-performance Ortho sprayer comes with adjustable settings (and three spray patterns), so you can control the flow rate to suit any task – whether it’s fertilizing, weed control, pest control, or cleaning outdoor furniture. The sprayer also has a large, easy to fill plastic container that comfortably holds up to 32 ounces of material, making larger jobs faster and more efficient.

In terms of features, the Ortho Dial N Spray is designed with convenience in mind. Thanks to its dial-based system, users can easily adjust the mix ratio between chemicals and water without having to manually measure out ingredients each time. And with its ergonomic design and comfortable trigger system, you can use this sprayer for extended periods without feeling strain on your hands. On top of this, its durable construction means it won’t get damaged if dropped or exposed to harsh chemicals.

For those who do a lot of spraying in their yard or garden, this hose end sprayer from Ortho can be an invaluable tool. Its adjustable flow rate allows for better coverage and precision when applying herbicides and fertilizers – something that would otherwise take hours of manual labor to achieve. Additionally, it’s great for cleaning outdoor furniture like patio sets or BBQ grills since you can add detergent and other cleaning agents directly into the solution for quick results (again, never do this without thoroughly cleaning your hose-end sprayer between uses; better yet, have a dedicated hose-end sprayer for applying lawn products and one for cleaning!).

Overall, the Ortho Dial N Spray hose end sprayer is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful yet easy-to-use piece of equipment. It’s designed with convenience in mind and offers superb performance at an affordable price – making it one of the best options around when it comes to keeping your home or garden looking its best!

Chameleon Sprayer – Best Value for Your Money

The RL Flomaster Chameleon hose end sprayer is an excellent choice for gardeners and DIY enthusiasts who are looking for a reliable, efficient, and easy-to-use tool at an affordable price.

This model is highly efficient and convenient, featuring adjustable settings that allow you to control the flow rate to suit any task – whether it’s fertilizing, weed control, pest control, or cleaning outdoor furniture.

Furthermore, this hose end sprayer comes with an ergonomic design and comfortable trigger system that makes it easier to use for extended periods without causing strain on your hands.

When it comes to features, the RL Flomaster Chameleon really shines. It boasts a large bottle size of 32 ounces which can comfortably store enough material for larger projects; plus, its adjustable dial-based system allows users to easily adjust the mix ratio between chemicals and water without having to measure out ingredients each time. And, with its quick connect system, you can attach your standard garden hose in seconds.

In addition, this sprayer is designed with durability in mind; its exterior casing is made from durable plastic material which won’t get damaged if dropped or exposed to chemicals.

On top of being convenient and user-friendly, the RL Flomaster Chameleon offers solid performance even with thicker products (foam, fertilizers, etc.). And, the poly bottle stands up to pesticides and chemical mixtures well.

Its adjustable flow rate allows you to achieve better coverage with less effort when applying herbicides and fertilizers; plus, it can be used for cleaning outdoor furniture like patio sets or BBQ grills because you can add detergent and other cleaning agents directly into the solution for quick results (just remember to clean your hose-end sprayer between uses).

This hose end sprayer is an excellent value for money. Not only does it come with all of these great features but also at a very reasonable price – making it one of the best options on the market when it comes to keeping your home or garden looking its best!

Chapin International G390 – A Solid Little Workhorse

The Chapin International G390 hose end sprayer is an excellent choice for homeowners who just want the basics (that work!).

This model can be used for spraying herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers on lawns, as well as for cleaning outdoor furniture and is designed with convenience in mind, offering an ergonomic design and comfortable trigger system that make it easy to use for extended periods without causing strain on hands. Although this one is not adjustable (no dilution settings), it’s still a solid choice for those that are familiar with dilution/mixing and are just looking for a great sprayer. And, it’s spray fan covers a solid amount of lawn (or garden, or patio!) at once, allowing for efficient coverage when applying lawn care or other products.

The Chapin International G390 also boasts a sturdy construction that won’t get damaged if dropped or exposed to harsh chemicals. Additionally, its large container size of 32 ounces offers plenty of storage space so you don’t have to constantly measure out ingredients each time you need to mix up a solution. This feature is especially beneficial if you need to tackle larger jobs or projects that require more product.

All things considered, the Chapin International G390 hose end sprayer is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a powerful yet easy-to-use piece of equipment at an affordable price – making it one of the best options available when it comes to keeping your home or garden looking its best!

Conclusion

Overall, hose end sprayers are a great choice for homeowners looking to tackle larger jobs or projects that require more product. Whether you’re spraying herbicides/weed killer and fertilizers on your lawn, giving your garden a little boost of water in the Summer, cleaning outdoor furniture, or tackling any other lawn care task – there is an option out there that can help make the job easier and faster. Simply add your product to the reservoir, attach to your garden hose, and spray!

With features like adjustable flow rates, ergonomic designs, comfortable trigger systems and large container sizes – these types of products offer convenience without sacrificing performance!

So if you want your home or garden looking its best in no time at all then a hose end sprayer might be exactly what you need!

And, don’t forget, whenever it’s needed, our Lawn Serv subscription boxes include a free hose end sprayer!

Lawn Care, Soil, Spring, Summer, Weeds

The Ultimate Guide to Crabgrass: What is Crabgrass, How Can I Prevent Crabgrass, and How Can I Get Rid of Crabgrass?

January 29, 2023 Lawn Guru Leave a comment

Crabgrass is one of the most common lawn weeds in America. It’s a tenacious plant that can be difficult to get rid of once it gets started. Knowing how to identify crabgrass and how to prevent it from getting a foothold in your lawn is the best way to keep your yard looking its best.

This guide will teach you everything you need to know about crabgrass, from what it is and how it grows, to the best ways to get rid of it.

By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll be an expert on this pesky weed (but, don’t worry, if you still need help, our Lawn Serv Subscription Plans include crabgrass control–we’re here to help)!

What is crabgrass and why does it grow in my lawn?

Summer lawn maintenance begins in the spring and an important consideration when preparing your lawn is pre-emergent weed control.

In fact, while the temperature does impact plant growth, it’s really the soil temperature that you need to watch out for, as this determines weed seed germination.

If you can apply your pre-emergent weed control at the right time, most products on the market work extremely well against crabgrass (and broadleaf weeds too!). If you’re looking for a lawn that’s free of weeds, controlling crabgrass early is critical.

Crabgrass reproduces through underground stems and seed heads that are spread by the wind, making it incredibly difficult to remove without pre-emergent weed control strategies.

Crabgrass spreads easily and quickly–each of the individual crabgrass plants in your lawn can generate 150,000 crabgrass seeds!

Each of these crabgrass seeds can then spread, turn into a crabgrass plant, and the cycle continues throughout the growing season! Crabgrass grows vigorously in the summer and can quickly choke out other vegetation, which can hurt your good grass’ ability to survive.

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to prevent and treat crabgrass infestations through lawn maintenance techniques such as overseeding, proper mowing height and soil aeration.

Taking preventive steps early in the spring will go a long way towards achieving a luscious lawn come summertime!

How do I know if I Have Crabgrass In My Lawn? How to Identify Crabgrass

Crabgrass (Digitaria) is a tough, low-growing annual weed with many stems. It has a procumbent growth habit and eludes mower blades when lawns are cut. Its stalk that bears flowers and seeds is very tough and can withstand foot traffic in high-traffic areas, so it is a very durable plant!

Crabgrass looks like coarse light green clumps of grass with sprawling stems resembling the legs of a crab; it may be mistaken for fescue grass but color and size serve as good differentiators to recognize it accurately.

Young crabgrass blades have the thickness of a pencil while older ones get heavy, fall, become scraggly, displaying star-shaped patterns in the middle.

Types of Crabgrass

There are two types of crabgrass species: hairy and smooth.

Hairy crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis) is the most commonly found type in North America, and its dark green leaves have a rough, bristly texture.

It grows in clumps and can reach heights of up to 8 inches when mature. Its seed heads are usually reddish-brown or purplish in color and grow on the end of long stalks, which makes it relatively easy to identify.

Smooth crabgrass (Digitaria ischaemum) has much finer hair than its hairy cousin, and its leaves tend to be lighter in color with a smooth texture.

It also tends to grow lower to the ground than hairy crabgrass, reaching only about 2 inches at maturity. Unlike large or hairy crabgrass, it does not produce seed heads; instead, it reproduces through underground stems called rhizomes which spread outward quickly and make eradication difficult once established.

Both types of crabgrass thrive in dryer environments with full sun exposure and require pre-emergent weed control strategies for effective management.

Proper mowing height, overseeding, aerating the soil, and spot treatment with herbicides are all important steps that should be taken in order to prevent or control an infestation of this pesky weed.

How can I prevent crabgrass from growing in my lawn?

Lawns are susceptible to crabgrass invasions each year, but fortunately there are measures you can take to help prevent it from taking over, including chemical controls and prevention.

The most beneficial pre-emergent step you can take is applying pre-emergent weed control during the optimum time in which crabgrass begins germinating. Depending on the climate, this window of opportunity occurs anytime between late winter and early spring when soil temperatures start to warm up. When soil temperatures start to reach ~55°F for four to five days, that’s when crabgrass seedlings really start to wake up and grow, so this is the ideal time to prevent a crabgrass infestation. For most cool season grasses, seeds germinate around March/April, while warm-season grasses (such as St. Augustine grass) may even see these soil temperatures all year round.

Additionally, keeping an eye on your soil temperatures (early summer and spring in particular) can help reduce the spread of dry crabgrass seeds in your yard and maintain a lush lawn all season long.

With proper pre-emergent care, you can protect your yard from crabgrass and keep your lawn looking its best all summer long.

How can I get rid of crabgrass that’s already growing in my lawn?

If you have crabgrass growing in your lawn, it is definitely time to take action!

Hand-pulling crabgrass

Full-lawn weed control application

One of the best ways to get rid of this pesky weed is to use a ready-to-spray product that won’t harm or kill the grass around it. And, this is likely the most effective way to kill crabgrass while also preventing it from setting seed (very important for control!).

In this case, post-emergent herbicides are used. These come in two types: selective and non-selective.

Ready-to-Spray products come in several varieties, but there are some effective products that tackle both crabgrass and other weeds (one of our favorites: Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer)

Selective herbicides target specific weeds or plant categories, while non-selective kill all plants, including those you might want to keep (non-selective herbicides kill all plants, so these products are usually used on patios, driveways, etc. and not really on lawns unless they are REALLY infested with weeds!). If you have any other plants in the area that you want to keep, a selective post-emergent herbicide should be chosen that targets crabgrass specifically.

Spot-treatment for crabgrass elimination

When spot treating, be sure to carefully spray the leaves and stems of the crabgrass and nothing else. For smaller lawns, there are effective products that come in spray bottles, so they are very easy to apply. But, for larger lawns, you may want to look for an effective concentrate product. Reapplication may be necessary if you are dealing with a particularly stubborn patch.

Additionally, regularly controlling weeds when they first appear can help to reduce future outbreaks of crabgrass. Taking these steps will help keep your lawn free of crabgrass so you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy lawn all season long!

Importantly, once crabgrass dies, it’s important that you remove the dead crabgrass–other weeds thrive in thick thatch buildup!

Maintain a healthy lawn

Maintaining a healthy lawn is the best way to prevent weeds, like crabgrass, from invading. Regularly mowing the grass to the correct height, overseeding thin patches with new grass seed, and aerating to improve root development can help create an environment that is less hospitable for weed growth.

Furthermore, applying pre-emergent herbicides at the appropriate time of year can help reduce the spread of weed seeds and protect your lawn from an infestation. Spot treatments are also effective in eliminating existing crabgrass (and other weeds), but must be done carefully so as not to harm any surrounding desirable plants or grasses.

Regular maintenance is the key: regularly controlling weeds when they first appear can greatly help reduce future outbreaks of crabgrass.

Taking these steps will ensure that your lawn is kept healthy and free of invasive weed growth throughout the season by blocking their initial germination process before it even starts. When taking care of your lawn, be sure to avoid over fertilizing or over watering; both can cause excessive weed germination and unhealthy conditions for grass growth.

With proper maintenance and care, you should have a lush green lawn all season long!

Should I be concerned about crabgrass, or is it just a nuisance weed?

If the question is whether you should be concerned about crabgrass, the answer is a resounding yes! Crabgrass can quickly take over your lawn, smothering beneficial grass species and creating an unsightly weed patch. The roots of crabgrass can reach depths of 12 inches, meaning it’s difficult to uprooted without significant effort – it can even spread from one lawn to another.

However, with timely and effective management techniques, such as pre-emergence herbicides, careful soil maintenance and proper mowing schedules, you can effectively manage crabgrass and prevent it from taking over your lawn. Additionally, more tolerant turfgrass species are available for those wanting a more low-maintenance option when it comes to avoiding crabgrass outbreaks. With some simple tips and preventive measures in mind, you can avoid being overrun by unwanted weeds like crabgrass.

Crabgrass prevention tips for next year

Taking preventative steps to limit the growth of crabgrass in your yard next year can save you time and energy fighting an onslaught of this pesky weed. One of the best ways to start is by taking care of your lawn throughout the growing season. Regular tasks such as cutting, aerating, and fertilizing will keep your grass healthy and strong, presenting a tougher barrier for crabgrass to penetrate. It’s also important to mow at the proper height – short enough for a neat appearance but not too short that you’re weakening or scalping the grass itself. Regularly check on any areas of your lawn that may be susceptible to bare soil exposure or standing water; these areas are commonly prime spots for crabgrass to sprout. Finally, apply a pre-emergent fertilizer early in the season – doing this before you see signs of trouble can help to ward off potential crabgrass down the line.

The bottom line on crabgrass

When it comes to crabgrass, the bottom line is that prevention is key. Taking preventative steps such as overseeding your lawn and maintaining a healthy soil pH level can go a long way to helping reduce the chances of an infestation. If you are dealing with existing crabgrass, prompt action is important in order to reduce its spread. Applying an herbicide approved for use on lawns may be necessary to help control the growth, but if not done properly it could also damage your grass. So get informed on the best options available and decide what will work best for you and your lawn before taking action.

Crabgrass is a problem for many homeowners because it’s unsightly and difficult to get rid of. But by following the tips in this article, you can keep crabgrass out of your lawn and have a beautiful yard that you can be proud of. Thanks for reading!

Need a little extra help tackling crabgrass in your lawn? No problem! Lawn Serv is the perfect solution–we take care of the timing, the specific product selection (our plans include crabgrass and weed control products!) and provide guidance along the way so you can enjoy your lawn to the fullest!

With Lawn Serv subscription boxes, you can get everything you need delivered right to your door on a monthly basis. The boxes are tailored specifically to each lawn’s specific needs, and make it super easy to get that beautiful lawn! For more information click here to check out the subscription options.

All Natural, Equipment, Fall, Lawn Care, Seeding, Soil, Spring, Summer, Weeds, Winter

Unlock the Secrets of a Lush Green Lawn: Learn the Best Practices for Fertilizing Your Yard

January 12, 2023 Lawn Guru Leave a comment

Creating a healthy and beautiful lawn starts with understanding how to properly fertilize it. No matter if you’re just starting out in landscaping or if you’ve been keeping up with the excellent care of your yard for years, knowing what type of fertilizer to use and when is essential for lush green grass all year round.

Unlocking the secrets behind achieving a flourishing lawn only takes learning some simple best practices that will make fertilizing as easy as one-two-three – here are our top tips!

Introduction: What is Fertilizing and Why Is It Important?

Fertilizing is the process of adding essential nutrients to soil in order to enhance its fertility and promote healthy plant (grass) growth. This practice is vitally important because it helps replenish lost nutrient levels in the soil due to soil erosion, leaching, and crop removal.

Additionally, fertilizing can be used to address deficiencies that naturally occur in soils such as a lack of nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium. These three nutrients are vital for plant health and growth; without them, plants cannot grow properly.

Fertilizing also helps plants resist disease and pests as well as improve yields.

As a result, using organic fertilizers as much as possibly is generally preferred over traditional fertilizers since they are more sustainable and produce great results!

Organic fertilizers help improve soil structure, which allows water and air to penetrate deeper into the soil and can result in better root development for plants. Furthermore, organic fertilizer releases slowly over time providing consistent nourishment for crops throughout their growing season.

By using the right fertilizer approach–including the right product, right timing, right application, and right program–your lawn will be beautiful all year long!

Let’s take a quick step back … do I even need fertilizer on my lawn??

Great question! One of the reasons we started Lawn Serv was to ensure that lawn care was super easy and–most of all–super efficient! Meaning, we wanted to make sure that America’s lawns were getting exactly what they needed, and only that! Some lawns need lots of love, including high-quality lawn foods/fertilizers, nutrients and amendments. Some don’t. But, the only way to tell is to do a high-quality, comprehensive soil test (note: all of our Lawn Serv subscription plans include free soil testing!).

Once you have the results of your soil test, it will be very clear what kinds of love your specific lawn needs!

What Type of Fertilizer Should I Use for My Lawn?

Fertilizers are an essential part of gardening and landscaping. They help to ensure that plants and turf receive the nutrients they need to thrive. However, it is important to understand the different types of fertilizers available and when to use them in order to get the best results.

And, when it comes to taking care of your lawn, choosing the right type of fertilizer is an important part of keeping your grass healthy. Depending on the type and condition of your soil, certain types of fertilizer will be more beneficial than others. Knowing which type to use can help ensure that you are providing the best possible nutrition for your grass.

Different Types of Fertilizers and When to Use Them

Organic fertilizers are made from natural sources such as bone meal, fish emulsion, manure and compost.

Organic fertilizers provide essential nutrients such as carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium that help plants grow. They also gradually release their nutrients over time, meaning they don’t need to be applied as often as chemical-based fertilizers.

Organic fertilizers slowly release nutrients over time, helping to build up healthy soil that can continue to nurture plants long-term.

Organic fertilizer is often used when establishing a new garden or lawn or as a supplement in established gardens throughout the growing season.

By using organic fertilizers, you can also help improve the soil structure and add vital organic matter to your lawn that helps retain moisture and promote healthy growth.

Synthetic or chemical-based fertilizers are a blend of minerals and other chemicals that provide fast-acting nutrients in a concentrated form. Chemical-based fertilizers may provide quick results but it is important to make sure you only use them according to the instructions on the package.

Synthetic fertilizers are chemical compounds made up of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These minerals help promote plant growth while also providing essential nutrients like calcium and magnesium. Synthetic fertilizer is quick-acting and helps plants reach peak performance more quickly than organic methods do, making it ideal for large-scale commercial operations or fast-growing crops like vegetables and fruits.

For optimal results in most cases it is best to combine both organic and synthetic fertilizers into your lawn care program.

This allows you to take advantage of both types of fertilizer’s benefits while avoiding some of their drawbacks.

Additionally, this approach can give you a better understanding of how much fertilizer should be applied per area in order to get the desired results without causing any damage or negative consequences for your lawn landscape or environment.

Finally, the time of year matters when deciding on how much fertilizer should be used as well. During periods when there is more active growth – usually during spring and fall – more fertilization is needed due to increased nutrient demand in order for plants to thrive properly. During summer months and periods with less active growth, less fertilization is necessary as there are fewer nutrients being used by plants at these times.

Slow-release fertilizers are a combination of both synthetic and organic ingredients that release nutrients into the soil at a gradual rate over several weeks or months. This method helps reduce nutrient runoff which can contribute to water pollution and allows plants to take in more nutrients without being overwhelmed by too much all at once. Slow-release fertilizers are often used in container gardens or with ornamental plants like trees and shrubs where stability is crucial for long-term health.

Liquid fertilizers provide an immediate boost for young seedlings or plants coming out of dormancy but can be washed away easily if not properly secured with mulch or other ground cover material. They may also be applied directly onto foliage where they will absorb quickly but require accurate application rates since they don’t last very long in the soil before needing reapplication.

Knowing what type of fertilizer is right for your garden or landscape will help you achieve optimal results while protecting your local environment from potential harm caused by chemical runoff or leaching into waterways. Understanding when each type should be used will maximize their effectiveness while minimizing any unintended consequences on nature’s balance.

How Do I Know How Much Fertilizer to Apply?

When it comes to applying fertilizer to your lawn, it is important to know how much fertilizer should be used. Too little and you won’t get the desired results, while too much can damage the environment and even your lawn. The amount of fertilizer that needs to be applied depends on several factors, including the type of grass you have, the size of your lawn, and the time of year. Knowing this information can help you determine just how much fertilizer should be applied (in addition to soil testing, of course!).

The first step in determining how much fertilizer should be applied is to determine what type of grass you have in your lawn. Different types of grass require different amounts of fertilizer, so it’s important to identify your grass type. Once you know this information, you can look up specific recommendations for how much fertilizer should be used for that particular grass type.

The next step is to measure the size of your lawn. This will give you an idea of how much total area needs to be covered with fertilizer when applying it.

You may also need additional measurements if there are any slopes or areas with higher levels of shade or drought tolerance that need special attention when fertilizing.

By taking into account all these factors – types of grass, size of lawn, and time of year – you can decide exactly how much fertilizer needs to be applied in order for your lawn to look its best!

Tips for Applying Fertilizer Effectively to Your Lawn

When it comes to applying fertilizer to your lawn, there are a few key tips and tricks to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to read the label on the fertilizer package carefully before applying it. This will help ensure that you are using the right type of fertilizer for your lawn, as well as using the correct application rate for optimal results.

When possible, try to purchase fertilizer that is slow-release or “coated” with substances that control release rates, as this type of product can help reduce instances of runoff and leaching into nearby waterways.

In addition, it’s best to apply fertilizer only when grass is actively growing rather than during periods of dormancy.

If possible, avoid spreading fertilizer close to trees and shrubs; not only do they have different nutrient needs than turfgrass, but they may also be more sensitive to certain nutrients found in fertilizers.

Once you’ve applied the fertilizer, the general rule is to water deeply after applying fertilizer – this will help the nutrients penetrate deeper into the soil and reach the roots of your grass where it can do its job more effectively. However, some fertilizers need time to absorb into the plants/soils, so make sure you read the specific label/directions carefully to ensure proper application.

Finally, make sure you have a good spreader! There are a ton of spreaders available on the market, including hand-held spreaders, push spreaders, and tow-behind spreaders. The most common type for a typical/medium-sized lawn is going to be a push spreader. These are usually $50-$100 for a decent one. For smaller lawns/sections of a lawn, you may be able to use a smaller, hand-held model. If you have a much larger yard, you may want to opt for a tow-behind spreader.

Common Mistakes People Make When Fertilizing Their Lawns

Lawn fertilization is an important part of lawn care, but it can also be a tricky process. If done incorrectly, it can cause more harm than good. Common mistakes people make when fertilizing their lawns include using too much fertilizer, not timing the application correctly, and not knowing what type of fertilizer to use for their particular type of grass.

When applying fertilizer to a lawn, it is important to use only the amount specified on the package. Too much fertilizer can result in nutrient overload, causing the grass to become too lush and grow too quickly. This leads to increased watering requirements and greater susceptibility to disease and pests. Furthermore, if the wrong kind of fertilizer is used or if none is used at all, the grass may lack adequate nutrients and become weak or thin out over time.

To ensure optimal growth and health, it is also important that fertilizers are applied during a specific window of time each season. Most fertilizers should be applied in springtime or late summer/early fall depending on your climate zone and type of grass you have in your yard. Applying at other times could mean missing out on nutrient absorption or overfeeding which can both lead to poor performance from your grass.

Finally, different types of grasses need different types of fertilizer specifically tailored to them; otherwise they may not get the nutrition they need for optimal growth and health. Before applying any type of fertilizer, research the best kind for your particular type of grass; for example some prefer nitrogen-rich fertilizers while others might require phosphorus-heavy mixtures instead. That way you will know your lawn is getting exactly what it needs when you apply fertilizer each season.

Conclusion: Final Tips for Maintaining a Healthy, Beautiful Lawn All Year Round

Maintaining a healthy, beautiful lawn year round doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With proper care and attention, it’s easy to achieve the perfect outdoor space that you can enjoy all year long. The following tips will help you keep your lawn looking its best so you can take pride in it every time you step outside.

First and foremost, make sure your lawn is getting enough water.

It’s important to water your lawn regularly but not too much. You should also adjust the amount of water depending on the weather conditions – if it’s been very hot and dry, your lawn may need more water than usual.

If possible, install an irrigation system so that you don’t have to manually monitor how much water your lawn is receiving each day.

If possible, watering your lawn in the morning is best because:

Watering your lawn in the morning is the best time for your grass to receive the optimal amount of water, as less is lost due to heat or wind.
Morning hours are cooler and calmer, meaning that the water can absorb into the soil more easily and penetrate deeper.
Watering in the morning gives your grass time to “drink” the water throughout the day, while watering at night promotes disease as the water absorbs slower, creating the ideal environment for fungus and other lawn disease.

The next step is to fertilize your lawn regularly. Fertilizing helps promote growth and ensure that your grass stays green and lush throughout the year. Make sure you use the right kind of fertilizer for your particular type of grass – this will ensure optimal results. Additionally, avoid over-fertilizing; too much fertilizer can damage or burn the roots of your grass.

You should also mow your lawn on a regular basis during its peak growing season (which typically runs from late spring through early fall).

Mowing helps keep weeds under control and gives the grass a neat, uniform appearance. Be sure to set the mower blades at a high setting– around 3 inches– so that you don’t scalp the grass when mowing. Also remember to sharpen or replace blades when necessary so they cut efficiently and don’t tear at the turf or leave uneven blades of grass behind when mowing.

Finally, if there are any bare spots in your lawn or areas where weeds seem to persist no matter what measures you take, try overseeding these areas with new seed blends designed for climate-specific turfgrass varieties in order to fill in these bald patches and prevent weeds from taking hold again. With regular care and maintenance like this, you can enjoy a healthy, beautiful outdoor space all year round!

Need a little extra help tackling your lawn fertilization program? No problem! Lawn Serv is the perfect solution for homeowners who want to maintain a healthy, beautiful lawn year-round without having to worry about buying and storing fertilizer, mowing supplies, and weed control products.

Equipment, Lawn Care, Spring, Summer, Weeds

The Ultimate Guide to Identifying and Eliminating Nutsedge From Your Lawn

January 10, 2023 Lawn Guru Leave a comment

As a homeowner, one of the most frustrating lawn problems can be dealing with nutsedge.

With its invasive nature and rapid growth rate, it takes over your yard quickly if you don’t act fast. That being said, identifying and eliminating nutsedge is not rocket science – in fact, this ultimate guide gives you all the tools needed to help keep your lawn nut-free!

We’ll talk about identification techniques, preventive measures for keeping it away from future trouble spots on your property, and ways to eliminate existing nutsedge without harming other parts of your lawn.

Read on to learn more about how to master tending to a well-manicured lawn that won’t be taken over by pesky wandering grasses like nutsedge!

Controlling nutsedge in your lawn can be a difficult and frustrating task, but with some time and effort you can get rid of them. Nutsedges are a type of weed that is particularly difficult to control because they have tough, fibrous roots, grow rapidly, and spread quickly. They can make your lawn look unsightly, shade out desirable plants, reduce water efficiency, crowd out more desirable grasses, and worse. It’s important to take the necessary steps to eradicate them so that you can enjoy your lawn again.

The best way to manage nutsedge is through a combination of cultural, mechanical, and chemical methods.

Cultural control methods involve changing the environment or condition of the area where the weeds are growing; this includes improving drainage and irrigation practices, modifying mowing practices and fertilization rates as well as monitoring for insect or disease infestations that could contribute to bare spots in the lawn that nutsedge will quickly fill in.

Mechanical control involves hand-pulling or digging out the nutsedge plants which should be done when they are young and actively growing; however this does not always work as some of the tubers may remain in soils for years before sprouting new plants. If you are going to pull/dig these weeds out, you may want to use a tool such as a “weed claw/puller”. These tools try to pull the weed out including the entire root system to limit the ability to come back.

Chemical control involves using herbicides specifically designed for controlling nutsedge; these include products such as pendimethalin (sold under brands like Pre-M), halosulfuron (sold under brands like Manor), sulfentrazone (sold under brands like Dismiss) or imazaquin (sold under brands like Image). One of our favorites–and easiest to use–is the Ortho Nutsedge Killer for Lawns Ready-To-Spray. For tougher infestations and for a more advanced user (you’ll have to mix this one yourself), we have also seen a lot of success with Sedgehammer.

However, in any case, make sure you read the entire label, confirm that any product that you use is compatible with your lawn, and test in a small area before you apply more broadly!

Be sure to read all labels carefully before application as many herbicides have restrictions on their use near bodies of water or around other sensitive areas such as playgrounds or gardens.

To successfully manage nutsedge in your lawn it’s best to start early before they become established by continually scouting your lawn for any signs of young plants throughout the season; if present use mechanical means first by pulling them up then move on to chemical controls if needed.

If chemical controls are used make sure to apply them correctly according to all label instructions and follow up applications with watering if recommended.

In addition be sure to avoid introducing new sources of nutsedge into your landscape by purchasing clean soil/fill or nursery stock as tubers may exist in soil even after multiple tillings over several years; also keep tools used in infested areas clean from transferring pieces from one place to another!

With diligence and discipline you can eventually achieve success in controlling these pesky weeds!

Introduction: What is nutsedge and why is it a problem?

Nutsedge is an invasive weed that is a serious problem for gardeners and homeowners alike. It is a grass-like plant that grows quickly, often appearing in large clusters and taking over garden beds or lawns. Nutsedge can be difficult to identify from other grasses or weeds due to its dark green color and its triangular stems, but it will typically grow much faster than other plants in the area.

Nutsedge reproduces rapidly through underground tubers, which are small, knobby structures that store nutrients and enable the plant to survive tough environmental conditions. These tubers allow the nutgrass to spread quickly and take over any area it is growing in. The weed also produces thousands of seeds each year, making it hard to control as they can easily spread with water runoff or even a breeze. Some nutsedges will even remain dormant during winter months and then sprout again come spring.

Once established, nutsedge can quickly become an eyesore with its thick foliage invading gardens or lawns and outcompeting other desirable plants for space and resources. In addition, because nutsedge has shallow roots that don’t penetrate deep into the soil like many other weeds, it can be especially difficult to eliminate once it takes hold in areas like flowerbeds or between pavers or bricks. Unfortunately, if you’re not super careful, manual removal of nutsedge can actually cause more harm than good because breaking off pieces of the root systems may just result in new plants sprouting up again later on.

It’s important for gardeners and homeowners alike to take action against this troublesome weed before it becomes too widespread. The most effective way of controlling nutsedge is through consistent mowing, as well as applying pre-emergent herbicides when needed. If possible, the best course of action is always prevention by keeping weeds away from your lawn before they have a chance to establish themselves.

Identification Techniques: How to spot and identify nutsedge in your lawn

Nutsedge is a weed that can be difficult to spot and identify in your lawn. It usually grows in patches, so it’s important to pay close attention when looking for it. Nutsedge has thin leaves with a V-shaped pattern, whereas most grasses have broad, flat blades. Additionally, nutsedge leaves are slightly rough to the touch and look shiny or glossy compared to the duller look of regular grass. The stems of nutsedge are also triangular shaped and have an appearance similar to bamboo. If you pull on its roots you may notice that they’re coarser than regular grass roots. Lastly, nutsedge produces brownish-purple flowers from late summer through early autumn that are clustered at the top of its stem.

If you suspect your lawn may be infested with nutsedge, there are several steps you can take to confirm your diagnosis and get rid of it. First, double check for the visual indicators listed above before making a final judgment call. If you’re still not sure if what you’ve found is nutsedge or not, then simply pull up some plants by their roots and inspect them further using a magnifying glass.

As always, Lawn Serv customers can also send pictures anytime to our soil science team for weed identification and to build a plan to get rid of weeds for good! Click here to learn more!

Prevention Strategies: What measures can be taken to keep nutsedge away from your property?

Preventing nutsedge from taking over your property can be a challenging task, but it is possible. The most effective way to keep nutsedge away is to take preventative measures before the weed has had a chance to take root.

Firstly, make sure that you routinely mow your lawn. This helps keep the weeds short and less likely to spread. Additionally, consider using an herbicide every few months throughout the season. Be sure to read instructions carefully when applying any type of chemical as overuse or improper use can cause damage to turf and other plants in your area.

It is also important to keep soil healthy and nutrient rich so that weeds cannot get a foothold.

This can be done by regularly fertilizing with well-balanced fertilizer, aerating your lawn to allow for oxygen exchange and water drainage, and doing some form of mulching such as laying down compost or wood chips around gardens or pathways. These all help create an environment where weeds are less likely to thrive due to lack of nutrients and sunlight penetration into the ground.

Additionally, keeping an eye out for spots where nutsedge may sprout up is key in prevention. If it’s spotted early on they can be pulled out before they have a chance to spread even further. For more established plants, hand-pulling is not effective; however, cutting them off at ground level will help reduce their ability to spread further seedlings.

Lastly, one of the most important steps in preventing nutsedge infestation is making sure that you do not inadvertently spread them across your property or landscape through activities like mowing or moving soil around from one area of your yard to another without cleaning off the material first.

It’s also important not move firewood or other organic material from place with existing nutsedge infestations onto your property as this could easily spread these pesky weeds throughout your entire backyard if left unchecked!

Keeping your lawn nutsedge-free

Keeping your lawn free of nutsedge can be a tricky task, but it is possible. The first step in controlling nutsedge is to properly identify it. Nutsedge is an invasive perennial grass-like weed that grows faster than regular grass and has triangular stems with yellow-green leaves and seed heads. It usually grows in patches and can spread quickly if left unchecked.

Once you have identified nutsedge, the next step is to remove existing nutsedge infestations from your lawn. This can be done with manual or mechanical methods such as hand-pulling, digging out the roots, or using a hoe or trowel to scrape away the top layer of soil containing the weed’s roots. If large infestations are present, chemical herbicides may need to be used for more effective control. Make sure to follow all safety instructions and wear protective clothing when using herbicides.

Finally, prevent future infestations by maintaining a healthy lawn through proper mowing and fertilizing practices that will help crowd out weeds like nutsedge. Additionally, avoid over-watering as this will lead to more favorable conditions for nutsedge growth. Applying mulch around plants and trees can also help prevent nutsedge from sprouting up close to them in the future. Following these steps should help keep your lawn free of pesky weeds like nutsedge so you can enjoy a beautiful green space year round!

It can be difficult to stop the spread of nutsedge, but with the right techniques and a little effort, homeowners everywhere can keep their yard nutsedge-free. With preventive measures such as avoiding overwatering, providing plenty of sunlight and utilizing proper mulching techniques, you can help ensure that this pesky weed doesn’t make its way into your landscape. If you spot any visible signs in your lawn, using timely chemical treatments may be the best solution for eliminating the problem all together.

For more on how to keep your lawn nut-free year round, be sure to check back throughout the season for updates, and as always, feel free to reach out to the Lawn Serv team with any questions.

Equipment, Lawn Care, Seeding, Soil, Spring, Summer, Weeds

How to Get Rid of Lawn Weeds For Good!

January 3, 2023 Lawn Guru Leave a comment

The best way to get rid of lawn weeds is to prevent them from growing in the first place by using a high-quality grass seed and some key best practices for lawn care.
Dethatching or scarifying your lawn once or twice a year will disrupt the growth of weeds and allow for better absorption of light, moisture, and nutrients by the grass roots.
Digging up weeds by hand, especially those with long taproots, is an effective way to remove them. Be sure not to leave any root fragments behind as they can quickly regrow.
Keeping on top of mowing (without cutting the grass too short) and removing all clippings will help prevent weed seeds from spreading and will weaken existing weeds.
Fertilizing and aerating your lawn regularly will help establish strong growth that can better compete against weed growth.
Checking your soil’s pH level can also indicate whether lime or Sulphur treatments are necessary.

If all of the above sounds daunting, don’t worry! Check out the comprehensive Lawn Serv Subscription plans–they’ll help keep track of your individual lawn’s schedule, and will send you all of the products you need, right when you need them!

Now, on to weed control!

Weeds are one of the most common and annoying problems gardeners face. Unwanted plants such as daisies, clover, and dandelions can quickly take over a lawn if left unchecked. But there’s no need to panic – with some patience and dedication you can get rid of weeds without using chemical herbicides or expensive treatments! In this blog post we’ll discuss eight simple tips for keeping your lawn weed-free: from clearing out big invasions with a trowel to regular mowing schedules, fertilizing your lawn, and checking pH levels. With these steps combined you’ll soon have a beautiful healthy lawn free from pesky weeds!

Choose the Right Grass Seed

A lush, green lawn is a great addition to any outdoor living space. But creating a beautiful lawn requires some work and planning. One of the most important aspects of having an attractive lawn is choosing the right grass seed mix. It’s important to pick a quality blend that will help you achieve beautiful results. Here are some tips on how to find the best grass seed mix for your needs.

When selecting a grass seed mix, one of the first things you should consider is whether it is designed for residential or commercial use. Residential blends are typically designed specifically with homeowners in mind and provide higher-quality seeds than their commercial counterparts. This means fewer weeds and a healthier lawn overall.

When shopping for grass seed mixes, you should also look for varieties that have a wide range of turfgrass types and varieties such as Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, or fine fescue instead of just one species. Having multiple types of turfgrass will create an even stronger foundation for your lawn and make it more resistant to disease, drought, and other environmental stresses.

Finally, if possible try to opt for certified seed mixes with labels such as “Certified Turfgrass Seed” or “Organic Turfgrass Seed”. These labels indicate that the seeds have undergone extensive testing and are free of weed contaminants which can damage your lawn over time. Taking these steps can help ensure that your lawn has a good start and becomes an attractive feature in your outdoor living space!

Creating a beautiful lawn can be rewarding but it does require some planning and effort. When it comes to selecting high quality grass seed mix there are several factors that you should be aware of in order to get the best results possible – from opting for residential or commercial blends depending on your needs, looking for a variety of turfgrass types in the mix, and seeking out certified or organic labels whenever possible. Following these tips can help ensure that you get the most out of your lawn care investments!

Need a recommendation? For most “Cool Season” lawns (those in the middle and Northern parts of the U.S.), we LOVE this Jonathan Green Black Beauty Ultra blend!

Don’t forget to de-thatch your lawn

Want to know how to get rid of lawn weeds? Dethatching or scarification is an effective approach for keeping them at bay. Wait until you’ve done the first few mows of spring and temperatures are at least 10 degrees Celsius (50°F). The process of scarification, or dethatching, will disrupt the weeds’ growth and can be performed with a scarifying rake or gas-powered tool.

This perforation of the soil’s surface allows light, moisture and essential nutrients to be more easily absorbed by the grass roots’ network, resulting in ‘lush, green growth and a healthier-looking lawn.’ Take a look at our guide on how to scarify a lawn to learn more.

Dig up Weeds by hand

Digging up weeds by hand can be a tedious but necessary task for keeping that lawn tidy and in check. The small trowel comes in useful for removing those pesky plant with long taproots such as dandelions, broad-leaved docks, and plantains – make sure you remove the full root rather than just its leaves.

After clearing out the bigger weed invasions, level the holes with compost, give a sprinkle of fresh grass seed and some water to finish off. Daisies and small clumps of clover can also be removed this same way thanks to their smaller roots. For less formal gardens however you may want to leave these pretty flowery additions alone! Just keep an eye out for couch grass as this weed is particularly difficult and difficult to destroy as it grows quickly from tiny fragments of its main root network.

If you’re unsure about any part of weeding check out our additional blogs for more tips!

Keep Up With Your Mowing Schedule

Knowing how to mow a lawn properly is a skill that most grass-owning-gardeners need to know. One of the most important things to remember is to not cut it too short, or when it’s frosted or wet, all of which can damage the turf. But mowing it in the right conditions, to the right height, will encourage strong, healthy grass. This will be better-equipped to out-grow weeds. If your lawn is already speckled with the likes of creeping thistle or common ragwort, then regular mowing is also a good way to get rid of them.

Be sure to add a clippings bag or box to your red lawnmower before you start mowing. That way, you’ll be less likely to spread the weed seeds around and cause even more weed growth. Removing all the seeds and cutting back the plant again and again will weaken them and prevent them from setting new seeds. With some patience and regular maintenance with your handy lawnmower, you’ll soon have a beautiful healthy lawn free from weeds!

Feed Your Lawn to Strengthen Your Grass!

Fertilizing your lawn with the right fertilizer is key for keeping weeds at bay and ensuring a healthy, lush lawn. A balanced fertilizer should be applied in late spring and autumn to provide essential nutrients for grass growth. Taking it one step further, aeration of the soil should be done a day or so before applying fertilizer. As well as allowing fertilizer to penetrate deep into the roots of the grass, aerating helps to break up compacted soil and improves drainage. With these steps combined, you will have your doorstep daisy-free in no time! Need more advice? Check out our spring lawn care tips article!

Check Your Lawn’s pH Level

It’s important to keep an eye on the pH of your lawn in order to ensure your grass is getting everything it needs to grow healthy and strong. Generally, soil should register at a level between 6.0 and 7.0 on your soil test. If the reading is below 7.0, then you may notice weeds such as dandelions emerging – this indicates that the soil is too acidic for normal grass growth. To correct this problem you can add lime to your lawn; likewise, if the reading is above 7.0 then you may need intervene with garden sulphur to give your grass the right amount of acidity in which to thrive.

Comprehensive soil testing is included with all of our Lawn Serv subscription plans, but if you’re just looking for a standalone soil test kit, that’s ok too! You can find those here.

Use Chemical Weed Killers/Prevention Only When Necessary

Sometimes (particularly when left untreated for several years in a row), weeds may just seem like they are taking over. When none of the organic or manual approaches seem to be working, there are very effective and targeted products available that will take care of most weed problems very quickly if used correctly.

These products typically are classified as either a “pre-emergent” weed control product (which target germinating seeds and are used to prevent weeds from sprouting) and “post-emergent” weed control (which target existing weeds, so are applied once you can see them above the soil).

While weed control products should be selected very carefully, when used as directed they are extremely effective at controlling most kinds of weeds (there are some exceptions, which we’ll get into in our other blogs!). Most importantly, before you apply any weed control product, make sure you read the application and handling instructions on the label very carefully.

One of our favorites is a combined “pre- and post-emergent” weed control product. This also has long-lasting control, so it greatly reduces the number of applications needed, and let’s you focus on enjoying your lawn, not fighting weeds! (But, as always, please check the label carefully to make sure this works for your grass type!

Lawn Care, Weeds

Managing Weeds In your Yard While keeping the grass

May 27, 2019 Lawn Guru Leave a comment

Everyone wants a weed free yard. Understanding where to start and setting realistic expectations is going to save you the frustration though as managing weeds in a lawn is an ongoing battle.

1.) Hand pulling weeds is going to help whenever you have established mature weeds already.

2.) Using a spot treatment is going to help on any weeds that are less mature or that are really hard to hand pull

3.) Preventing weeds is going to save you time on step 1 and 2, so be sure to apply your pre-emergent weed control religiously and using a broad post-emergent early is going to be more effective against less mature weeds.

We talk about attacking weeds in a bunch of ongoing mini-battles a lot here at Lawn Serv. We personally like to try to spend 5-10 minutes before mowing the lawn to walk the area, pick up sticks, and pull any mature weeds. After the mow take another 5-10 minutes pulling any mature weeds you saw while mowing while walking around with the spot treatment spraying anything too hard to pull.

After a few weeks of repeating that process you will have made a lot of great progress!

Enjoy the lawn!

Lawn Serv Team

https://lawnserv.com/

Bugs, Lawn Care, Spring, Weeds

3 Steps to Getting Rid of Those Weeds

May 3, 2019 Lawn Guru Leave a comment

Crabgrass! Dandelions! Chickweed! Oh my! Without prevention and proper control, weeds can germinate and spread very quickly. The best way to prevent weeds in the first place is to grow a thick, healthy lawn, which will crowd out and block weeds and weed seeds from getting access to your lawn’s nutrients and even the sun. But, once weeds have taken hold, they can be difficult to rid from your yard. Luckily, though, there are a few relatively simple things you can do to prevent those pesky weeds from ruining your beautiful lawn. We’ve included our recommended approach–the weed-eliminating trilogy–below. Just remember, like lawn care in general, getting rid of weeds is a marathon, not a sprint!

As always, feel free to reach out with any questions–we’re here to help!

STEP 1: PULL, PULL, PULL!

Many types of weeds (like crabgrass, chickweed, etc.) can be hand-pulled relatively easily, so it’s definitely worth trying to make a dent manually. Earlier in the season is usually better, as the weed roots are still relatively shallow. Similarly, hand-pulling when the soil is moist is usually most effective.

STEP 2: SPOT, SPOT, SPOT!

Once you’ve taken a few passes through your yard hand-pulling as many weeds as you can, you may want to use a targeted spot treatment for weeds. These usually come in a spray bottle, or jug with a wand attached.

Spot treatment is usually most effective when you can target the center/base of the weed, as well as the major weed leaves. When applying spot treatment, it should not harm the lawn, but you should try to avoid overspraying your weeds anyway–you’ll use less product overall, and your grass will be under less stress!

STEP 3: PREVENT, PREVENT, PREVENT!

The Spring and Fall are key times for getting ahead of weed growth. Once weeds become more mature during the summer, your grass is often too stressed to be able to fight back! So, don’t forget your pre-emergent weed preventer in the Spring, and if you’re not planning to overseed in the Fall, you may choose to apply another round of pre-emergent.

But, don’t forget that growing a healthy lawn is the best prevention there is! So, don’t forget to mow a little higher, water your lawn at least once a week, and take the time to walk through your lawn each week to spot potential weed germination and other lawn stresses before they start to spread!

Lawn Care, Spring, Weeds

Weed Control Pre vs Post Emergence

February 18, 2019 Lawn Guru

Quick Pro-Tips:

Pre-Emergent Herbicides are used in the early Spring Season to prevent weed seeds from germinating
Post-Emergent Herbicide is used once the Spring Season has begun to target established weeds
Application timing is important in the success of weed control
More mature weeds will need more attention – Like manual pulling

Overview:

Nobody likes weeds. They are hard on the eyes and usually end up killing the lawn by sucking up all the nutrients from the surrounding grass and eventually dying themselves making the lawn patchy and bumpy. In order to prevent weeds from growing there are two types of product commonly used called Pre-Emergent and Post-Emergent Herbicides. It is ideal to understand the difference between the two to get the best results for your effort.

Note: There is NO SUCH THING AS ORGANIC weed control!

Pre-Emergent Herbicides:

These products are typically meant to be applied in the early Spring season. The “Pre” in Pre-emergent is its focus on stopping weed seeds (or any seeds, grass included) from germinating. Typically that means from February to May depending on where you live or when the soil temps are getting up to 55 degrees. Based on where you are in the country and particular years climate this can change slightly.

Check your soil temps HERE

Post-Emergent Herbicides:

Post Emergent products are meant to address established weeds such as dandelions, thistle, bindweed, nutsedge and many more to kill them. The products can be applied with spot treatment for small problems, with a hose end sprayer for great leaf coverage, and as a granular product for a slower release and control. Be careful as application rates should be limited throughout the year. You can’t always get them all at once! Hence the manual process below…

Manual Weed Pulling:

Because you should really limit your weed control applications in a given year, as to not stress the good grass you want to keep. The best thing a homeowner can do is hand pull weeds or use a de-weeding tool to help in that process. You can get a mixture of seed and soil to back-fill any holes you create in the process to make sure no weeds just fill that spot again.

Lastly: No matter how much you treat your lawn, weed control is about consistency and perseverance. Because weed seeds can travel several different ways from distance sometimes very far away you can never truly stop weed prevention and intervention. Keeping a healthy full lawn fed to crowd out weeds is the best practice.

For Manual Weed Pulling Check Out This Tool