Weed Control
A lawn care professional that has passed the state pesticide examinations is presumed to be aware of weed types and basic treatment information. With that in mind we will focus on answering common questions.
The first step is to make sure of your weed indentification
Weeds of the West is a very good book to have in the truck.
Another great online option is http://www.msuturfweeds.net/
The next step is to determine if the weed is classified as a broadleaf or grass
Broad leaf herbicides are commonly formulated to kill weeds such as dandelions or clover without harming the Lawns Bluegrass of Rye. Again you should know this information and if you do not we highly recommend contacting your local extension office or state agriculture department for resources.
Here are some common weeds asked about in this area:
The Pesky Dandelion is best treated in the Spring and Fall. Common Broad Leaf Herbicides are effective however for best results always use a “sticker” (see below)*.
The Pesky Dandelion is best treated in the Spring and Fall. Common Broad Leaf Herbicides are effective however for best results always use a “sticker” (see below)*.
Mallow is a drought plant with a cuticle that can make control difficult. Certain herbicides are more effective and again – always use an additive to help the chemical stay on the plant.*
Bindweed is another problematic weed. The most effective times for herbicide application are during flowering, or in August/September. *
Black Medic is sometimes mis-identified. Combination herbicides are more effective than 2,4-D alone
Canada thistle is best controlled early in the season before it has a chance to harden off. Canada thistle is invasive due to shoots from its root system which can make lawn control difficult. With that in mind consider pre-emergent herbicides as well as post emergent.
Crab grass is best controlled with a pre-emergent herbicide. This is often applied as a treated fertilizer to do two things at once in the Spring. You may hear the term banding associated with Crab Grass control; this is a method of applying herbicide around the outer edge of the lawn, especially near the sidewalk where the cement will raise the ambient temperature of the soil faster and germinate the seed.
Puncture vine has the ability to put out seeds that can remain dormant in the soil for some time. In bare ground situations you may want to consider pre-emergents for control. One problem with the weed is even after the herbicide begins to control the plant – the plant will still put out seed to propagate itself. Actual removal of the carcass and seeds may be the most effective after the plant is mature.
* Professional Applicators know how critical it is to add the right adjuvents (sticker/surfactant) to get maximum weed control. Stop costly call backs and ineffective weed control.
