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Effective Weed Control: Essentials for Your Lawn

Maintaining a pristine lawn in the Maritimes can be challenging, especially when weeds start to invade your green space. However, with the right strategies and products, you can keep your lawn looking its best. Here are some essential tips and products for effective weed control.

Understanding Common Weeds in the Maritimes

The first step in effective weed control is identifying the common weeds that plague lawns in the Maritimes. Some of the most prevalent include dandelions, crabgrass, and clover. Knowing what you’re up against will help you choose the right control methods.

Specific Weeds in the Maritimes

  • Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): A widely recognized weed with yellow flowers and rosette-shaped leaves.
  • Chickweed (Stellaria media): A low-growing weed with small, white flowers and fleshy leaves. 
  • Canada Thistle (Cirsium arvense): A perennial weed with spiny leaves and purple flower heads. 
  • Crabgrass (Digitaria spp.): A common grassy weed that grows in lawns and other disturbed areas.
  • Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis): A vining weed with trumpet-shaped flowers and heart-shaped leaves. 
  • Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti): An annual weed with large, velvety leaves and pale yellow flowers.
  • Yellow Rocket (Barbarea vulgaris): A biennial weed with yellow flowers and dissected leaves. 
  • Yellow Nut Sedge (Cyperus esculentus): A grassy weed with rhizomes (underground stems) that can be difficult to control. 
  • Tansy Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea): A biennial weed with yellow flowers and pinnate leaves. 
  • White Cockle (Lychnis alba): A biennial weed with white flowers and lance-shaped leaves.
  • Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca): A native perennial weed with pinkish-white flowers and lance-shaped leaves, also important for monarch butterflies.
  • Partridge Berry (Mitchella repens): A low-growing ground cover with oval, green leaves and red berries.
  • Common Blue Wood-Aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium): A perennial plant with blue or purple flowers and heart-shaped leaves.

Factors Influencing Weed Growth

  • Soil conditions: Weeds thrive in disturbed or nutrient-poor soils. 
  • Disturbed areas: Roadsides, pastures, and harvested tree lots are prone to weed invasion.
  • Climate: Environmental conditions like temperature and moisture can influence weed distribution and growth. 

Weeds can tell you a lot about your soil because all plant species prefer specific environmental conditions to thrive. Does the soil have too little nitrogen or is it eroded or too compacted? Here is a more detailed review of each type of weed and the specific factors that influence their growth on lawns:

Dandelions

Dandelions are quite resilient and can thrive in various conditions. Here are some key factors that influence their growth on lawns:

  1. Soil Compaction: Dandelions can grow well in compacted soil where grass roots struggle to penetrate
  2. Thin Turf: Sparse grass provides less competition, allowing dandelion seeds to germinate more easily.
  3. Excess Soil Moisture: Dandelions thrive in moist-to-wet soil conditions, especially when the grass is weakened by waterlogged soil
  4. Soil Acidity: Dandelions prefer slightly acidic soil, which might indicate your lawn’s pH is not optimal for grass
  5. Calcium Deficiency: Soil lacking calcium can favor dandelion growth, as these plants can pull nutrients from deeper layers to the surface
  6. Mowing Practices: Cutting grass too short can reduce its ability to compete with dandelions

To manage dandelions, maintaining a healthy, dense lawn is crucial. Regular aeration, proper mowing, and balanced fertilization can help keep these weeds at bay.

Chickweed

Chickweed (Stellaria media) is a common lawn weed that thrives under various conditions. Here are some key factors influencing its growth:

  1. Soil Type: Chickweed prefers moist, fertile, and well-drained soils. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels
  2. Moisture Levels: It thrives in moist conditions but can also tolerate some drought
  3. Climate Conditions: Chickweed is cold-hardy and often flourishes in cooler seasons, even under snow cover
  4. Disturbed Soil: Areas with disturbed soil, such as those with frequent foot traffic or lawn maintenance activities, are ideal for chickweed growth
  5. Shade: Chickweed can grow in both sunny and shaded areas, but it often forms dense patches in shaded lawns
  6. High Nitrogen Levels: Chickweed tends to do well in soils with high nitrogen content

To manage chickweed, maintaining a healthy lawn through proper fertilization, regular mowing, and using turfgrasses well-adapted to your site conditions is essential. Postemergence herbicides containing dicamba, MCPP, and fluroxypyr can also be effective.

Canada Thistle

Canada Thistle (Cirsium arvense) is a persistent and invasive weed that can be challenging to manage on lawns. Here are some key factors that influence its growth:

  1. Soil Disturbance: Canada Thistle thrives in disturbed soils, such as those found in areas with frequent foot traffic or lawn maintenance activities
  2. Moisture Levels: It prefers moist soil conditions but can also tolerate dry periods
  3. Soil Fertility: This weed can grow in a variety of soil types but tends to do well in fertile soils
  4. Sunlight: Canada Thistle grows best in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade
  5. Root System: It has an extensive root system that can penetrate deep into the soil (up to 6 feet) and spread horizontally (up to 15 feet), allowing it to form dense patches
  6. Seed Dispersal: The seeds are equipped with a pappus (a tuft of hairs) that aids in wind dispersal, allowing them to spread over long distances

To manage Canada Thistle, it’s important to maintain a healthy, dense lawn to outcompete the weed. Regular mowing, proper fertilization, and possibly the use of herbicides can help control its spread.

Crab Grass

Crabgrass (Digitaria spp.) is a common and troublesome weed in lawns. Here are some key factors that influence its growth:

  1. Soil Temperature: Crabgrass seeds germinate when soil temperatures consistently reach between 55°F and 60°F (13°C to 16°C) in the spring
  2. Sunlight: It thrives in sunny areas and can outcompete turfgrass in these conditions
  3. Soil Compaction: Compacted soil provides an ideal environment for crabgrass, as it struggles to compete with healthy, dense turf
  4. Moisture Levels: Crabgrass prefers moist conditions but can also tolerate drought, making it adaptable to various watering regimes
  5. Mowing Practices: Mowing the lawn too short can stress the grass and create opportunities for crabgrass to establish
  6. Bare Spots: Areas of the lawn that are thin or bare are prime spots for crabgrass to take hold

To manage crabgrass, maintaining a healthy, dense lawn is crucial. This includes proper mowing, watering, and fertilization practices. Pre-emergent herbicides can be applied in early spring to prevent crabgrass seeds from germinating, and post-emergent herbicides can be used to control any that do appear.

Bindweed

Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) is a persistent weed that can be challenging to control. Here are some key factors that influence its growth on lawns:

  1. Soil Type: Bindweed thrives in moist, deep, fertile soils but can also tolerate poor, dry, gravelly soils
  2. Climate: It grows well in temperate, Mediterranean, and tropical climates
  3. oil Moisture: While it prefers moist conditions, bindweed seldom grows in wet soils
  4. Shade: Bindweed growth can be partially reduced by shade from other plants
  5. Root System: Bindweed has an extensive root system that can reach depths of up to 20 feet, making it difficult to eradicate
  6. Nitrogen Levels: Adequate nitrogen fertilization can help manage bindweed by promoting healthy grass growth

To control bindweed, maintaining a healthy lawn through proper fertilization, irrigation, and mowing practices is essential.

Velvetleaf

Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti) is a resilient weed that can thrive under various conditions. Here are some key factors that influence its growth:

  1. Soil Moisture: Velvetleaf prefers moist soil conditions but can tolerate moderate water stress. It grows best when soil moisture is maintained at 75% to 100% field capacity
  2. Soil Fertility: It thrives in fertile soils and can grow quickly during the hot summer months
  3. Sunlight: Velvetleaf can grow under both full sun and partially shaded conditions, making it adaptable to different light environments
  4. Temperature: It grows well in warm temperatures but is not frost-tolerant and dies with the first hard frost
  5. Seed Dormancy: Velvetleaf seeds exhibit considerable dormancy, allowing them to survive in the soil for over 50 years. Scarification of the seed coat by microbial action, soil action, or tillage permits water entry and germination
  6. Disturbed Soil: Areas with disturbed soil, such as those with frequent foot traffic or lawn maintenance activities, are ideal for velvetleaf growth

To manage velvetleaf, maintaining a healthy, dense lawn through proper fertilization, regular mowing, and minimizing soil disturbance is essential. Herbicides can also be effective in controlling this weed.

Yellow Rocket

Yellow Rocket (Barbarea vulgaris) is a resilient weed that can thrive in various conditions. Here are some key factors that influence its growth:

  1. Soil Moisture: Yellow Rocket prefers moist, well-drained soils but can tolerate a range of moisture conditions
  2. Soil Fertility: It thrives in fertile soils and can grow quickly, especially in nutrient-rich environments
  3. Sunlight: This weed can grow in both full sun and partial shade, making it adaptable to different light conditions
  4. Temperature: Yellow Rocket is a cool-season plant that can germinate in both spring and fall. It is frost-tolerant and can survive through winter
  5. Disturbed Soil: Areas with disturbed soil, such as those with frequent foot traffic or lawn maintenance activities, are ideal for Yellow Rocket growth
  6. Seed Dispersal: The seeds of Yellow Rocket can remain viable in the soil for several years, allowing it to re-establish even after removal

To manage Yellow Rocket, maintaining a healthy, dense lawn through proper fertilization, regular mowing, and minimizing soil disturbance is essential. Post-emergent herbicides containing 2,4-D, MCPP, and dicamba can also be effective.

Tansy Ragwort

Tansy Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea) is a resilient weed that can thrive under various conditions. Here are some key factors that influence its growth:

  1. Soil Type: Tansy Ragwort grows well in medium to light-textured soils, including calcareous soils, organic-rich alluvium, light loam, and clay-with-flints
  2. Moisture Levels: It prefers areas with sufficient rainfall (around 34 inches or 860 millimeters per year) but is absent where the water table is high
  3. Sunlight: This weed can grow in both full sun and partial shade, making it adaptable to different light conditions
  4. Temperature: Tansy Ragwort is a winter annual, biennial, or short-lived perennial that can grow between 8-36 inches tall but can attain heights greater than 6 feet under optimal conditions
  5. Disturbed Soil: Areas with disturbed soil, such as those with frequent foot traffic or lawn maintenance activities, are ideal for Tansy Ragwort growth
  6. Seed Dispersal: The seeds are equipped with a pappus that aids in wind dispersal, allowing them to spread over long distances

To manage Tansy Ragwort, maintaining a healthy, dense lawn through proper fertilization, regular mowing, and minimizing soil disturbance is essential. Herbicides containing 2,4-D and picloram can be effective when applied to actively growing immature plants.

White Cockle

White Cockle (Lychnis alba), also known as White Campion, is a resilient weed that can thrive in various conditions. Here are some key factors that influence its growth:

  1. Soil Type: White Cockle prefers well-drained soils and is commonly found in pastures, along right-of-ways, and in hay fields
  2. Moisture Levels: It thrives in moist conditions but is seldom seen in very dry climates
  3. Sunlight: This weed is a “sun-lover” and grows best in full sun, although it can tolerate partial shade
  4. Temperature: White Cockle seedlings do not tolerate high temperatures well, making it more prevalent in cooler climates
  5. Seed Dispersal: Each female plant can produce over 24,000 seeds, which can remain viable in the soil for up to three years. The seeds are similar in size and shape to clover and alfalfa seeds, often leading to contamination
  6. Disturbed Soil: Areas with disturbed soil, such as those with frequent foot traffic or lawn maintenance activities, are ideal for White Cockle growth

To manage White Cockle, maintaining a healthy, dense lawn through proper fertilization, regular mowing, and minimizing soil disturbance is essential. Herbicides can also be effective in controlling this weed.

Common Milkweed

Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) is a resilient plant that can thrive in various conditions. Here are some key factors that influence its growth:

  1. Soil Type: Common Milkweed prefers well-drained soils but can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils
  2. Moisture Levels: It thrives in moist conditions but can tolerate periods of drought. Consistent moisture helps in optimal growth
  3. Sunlight: This plant grows best in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade
  4. Temperature: Common Milkweed grows well in warm temperatures. Elevated temperatures can increase its growth, while water stress can decrease it
  5. Seed Dormancy: The seeds require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. This means they need to be exposed to cold, moist conditions for a few weeks before they can germinate
  6. Disturbed Soil: Areas with disturbed soil, such as those with frequent foot traffic or lawn maintenance activities, are ideal for Common Milkweed growth

To manage Common Milkweed, maintaining a healthy, dense lawn through proper fertilization, regular mowing, and minimizing soil disturbance is essential.

Partridge Berry

Partridge Berry (Mitchella repens) is a low-growing, evergreen plant that can thrive in various conditions. Here are some key factors that influence its growth:

  1. Soil Type: Partridge Berry prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils. It is commonly found in mature forests with rich, organic soil
  2. Moisture Levels: It thrives in moist, well-drained conditions but can tolerate some drought once established
  3. Sunlight: This plant grows best in partial to full shade, making it ideal for shaded areas of the lawn
  4. Temperature: Partridge Berry is hardy and can survive in a range of temperatures, but it prefers cooler, temperate climates
  5. Growth Habit: It spreads vegetatively through creeping stems that root at the nodes, forming dense mats over time
  6. Seed Dormancy: The seeds require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy and germinate

To encourage the growth of Partridge Berry, maintaining a shaded, moist environment with well-drained, slightly acidic soil is essential.

Common Blue Wood-Aster

Common Blue Wood-Aster (Symphyotrichum cordifolium) is a hardy perennial that can thrive in various conditions. Here are some key factors that influence its growth:

  1. Soil Type: It prefers average, dry to moist, well-drained soils. Poorly drained locations can lead to issues like aster wilt
  2. Moisture Levels: While it can tolerate dry conditions, it grows best in moist soils
  3. Sunlight: This plant can grow in both full sun and partial shade, making it adaptable to different light environments
  4. Temperature: Common Blue Wood-Aster blooms late summer into fall and can continue blooming through the first few frosts
  5. Growth Habit: It spreads by short rhizomes, leading to a clumping growth habit. Taller plants may require staking or support
  6. Disturbed Soil: Areas with disturbed soil, such as those with frequent foot traffic or lawn maintenance activities, are ideal for its growth

To manage Common Blue Wood-Aster, maintaining a healthy, dense lawn through proper fertilization, regular mowing, and minimizing soil disturbance is essential.

Note: While some plants are commonly considered weeds, some native species, like common milkweed, can also be beneficial to the ecosystem. 

Some ‘weeds’ such as Goldenrod (Solidago species) and Joe Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum) are native species which support pollinating insects and birds and contribute to the ecosystem. Milkweed (Asclepias species), for example, provides a nursery for the offspring of Monarch butterflies. Also, Queen Anne’s Lace (Daucus carota) is also considered a weed but can be beneficial in that it attracts predatory wasps, flies and lady beetles which prey on garden pests such as aphids.

Pre-Emergent Herbicides

Pre-emergent herbicides are a great way to prevent weeds from taking root in your lawn. These products work by inhibiting the germination of weed seeds. Apply them early in the season before weeds start to grow. There are many popular options available, speak with your local Feeds’n Needs experts to find the right solution for your green space.

Remember to always read the label for application specifications.

Post-Emergent Herbicides

For weeds that have already established themselves, post-emergent herbicides are necessary. These products target and kill weeds that are actively growing. There are many popular options available, speak with your local Feeds’n Needs experts to find the right solution for your green space. Remember to always read the label for application specifications.

Organic Weed Control Options

If you prefer an eco-friendlier approach, there are organic weed control options available. These products are safe for pets and children and are effective in managing weeds. There are many popular options available, speak with your local Feeds’n Needs experts to find the right solution for your green space.

Manual Weed Removal

Sometimes, the best solution is good old-fashioned manual removal. Tools like weed pullers and hoes can help you remove weeds by the root, preventing them from growing back.

Lawn Maintenance Practices

Maintaining a healthy lawn is one of the best defenses against weeds. Regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing can keep your grass strong and resilient. Here are some tips:

  • Mow Regularly: Keep your grass at a height of 2.5-3 inches (or use the one-third rule) to prevent weed growth. Mowing is a crucial maintenance practice for turf, significantly influencing the type and amount of weeds present. Following the one-third rule (never mow off more than one-third of the plant) is beneficial, but there’s more to consider. As turf grows taller and denser, it shades the soil, preventing weed seeds from germinating due to lack of sunlight. Increased mowing height alone can reduce weed pressure significantly.

During summer, raising mowing heights to three inches or more helps turf grow thicker and reduces weed pressure. Taller turf also promotes deeper root growth, enhancing the turf’s ability to withstand heat, drought, disease, and insect pressure. Additionally, keeping mower blades sharp and returning clippings to the turf (using a mulching mower blade helps with this) contributing up to two pounds of nitrogen per year.

  • Water Deeply: Water your lawn deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
  • Fertilize: Use a balanced fertilizer to keep your lawn healthy and vigorous. Remember to always read the label for application specifications.

To get your green space looking it’s best, talk with one of our Feeds’n Needs experts in store. They will help you find the best solution to control and prevent weed growth.

Conclusion

Weed control in the Maritimes requires a combination of prevention, treatment, and maintenance. By using the right products and practices, you can keep your lawn looking lush and weed-free. Visit your local Feeds’n Needs to find all the essentials you need for effective weed control.

Feeds'n Needs Team