WEEDS!

How to Keep Weeds Out of Your Yard: A Homeowner's Guide to a Healthier Lawn

Nothing ruins a beautiful lawn faster than a patch of stubborn weeds. Whether it's dandelions, crabgrass, or clover creeping in, weeds are more than just an eyesore — they compete with your grass for water, nutrients, and sunlight. The good news is, with a little know-how and consistent care, you can keep weeds from taking over your yard.

1. Start with Healthy Grass

The best defense against weeds is a thick, healthy lawn. Weeds thrive in thin or bare spots, so your first goal should be to give your grass everything it needs to grow strong.

• Mow high: Set your mower blade to 3-4 inches depending on the grass type. Taller grass shades the soil, which helps prevent weed seeds from germinating.

• Water deep, not often: Aim for 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. Deep watering encourages deeper root growth, which helps grass outcompete weeds.

• Fertilize regularly: Feed your lawn based on its specific needs and the season. Well-fed grass grows thick and can choke out weeds naturally.

2. Prevent Before They Sprout

• Apply pre-emergent herbicide: In early spring (before soil temps hit 55°F), use a pre-emergent herbicide to stop annual weeds like crabgrass before they germinate. Timing is everything, so check local soil temps or ask your local lawn care pro.

• Mulch flower beds: Apply 2–3 inches of mulch in garden beds to prevent weeds from seeing the light of day. Mulch also helps retain moisture and improves soil over time.

3. Attack Existing Weeds Early

• Pull them by hand: For isolated weeds, especially broadleaf types like dandelions, hand-pulling works well. Do it after rain or watering when the soil is soft to get the whole root.

• Spot-treat with herbicide: Use a post-emergent weed killer for persistent weeds, but follow label instructions carefully to avoid harming your lawn or nearby plants.

4. Overseed Bare Patches

Bare spots in your lawn are open invitations for weeds. Overseed those areas in the spring or fall (depending on your grass type) to crowd out invaders and keep your lawn looking full.

5. Don't Let Clippings Spread Seeds

If your lawn is already fighting off weeds, collect your grass clippings rather than mulching them back in. This helps prevent weed seeds from spreading.

Final Tip: Patience Pays Off. Weed control isn’t a one-time task. It’s a season-long strategy that gets easier over time as your lawn thickens up and your maintenance routine keeps things in check.