What are Lawn Weeds?
A weed is simply any plant that we don't wish to be growing in a particular place. Grass becomes a weed within flower beds, for example.
Common lawn weeds include Dandelion, Clover, Daisy, Buttercup, and Thistle - but there are a long list of difficult to control weeds, or those which thrive in certain conditions or at certain times of year. We see weeds such as Speedwell, Lesser Trefoil (yellow flowering Clover), and Field Woodrush which require professional control.
The two methods of weed control are via the use of a selective herbicide (lawn weed killer) and manual removal. If considering the use of a selective herbicide yourself then please take care - see below.
How do we treat Lawn Weeds?
In the first instance, for many lawns that we view, an application of a selective herbicide is required to bring the weeds under control, in conjunction with a Fertiliser Application - this making up a typical summer lawn treatment. This encourages grass growth, and reduces weeds at the perfect time of year, when weeds are at the height of the growth.
Regular lawn treatments, as part of our Lawn Care Treatment Programme, enhance grass health and thickness and controls weed growth on an ongoing basis. Maintaining a height of cut of at least 25mm along with a frequent mowing regime makes a huge difference to the health of the grass, which in turn will reduce the number of weeds you will see taking.
On an ongoing basis, we spot treat for newly germinated, or stubborn weeds such as Speedwell - spraying only as required for the good of your lawn and the environment. By working together we keep our pesticide use to a minimum.
Our clients can feel assured that not only are we NPTC qualified for the purchase, storage, transport and use of herbicides, but we are also a BASIS Lawn Assured Accredited Operator. We are independently audited on an annual cycle to maintain the highest of standards for complete peace of mind for our customers.
Why do you need to treat Lawn Weeds?
Lawn weeds can spoil the appearance of a well maintained lawn. Whereas a few weeds may not be deemed a problem to many, when weeds start to take over, grass growth starts to suffer.
Broadleaved weeds smother the grass and, when left to an extreme level where the lawn is more weed than grass, a lawn treatment followed by a Lawn Renovation is often the cause of action to restore the desired grass thickness.
DIY Vs Professional Weed Treatment
Not all lawn weeds are equal. Some are easier to control that others, with control for Dandelions available from DIY stores. As with any DIY lawn product, this needs to be used at the correct rate, following label instructions for safe use and storage. Please note that professional pesticide products require by law PA1+6 qualifications to purchase, store, transport and use.
Weeds such as Clover, Yellow Flowering Clover, Creeping Cinquefoil, Plantain, Field Woodrush, Selfheal and Speedwell will not be affected by the weaker active ingredients available to the DIY market.
These weeds will require carefully removing from the root, or treated as part of an ongoing lawn care treatment programme. A professional can provide advice on difficult to control weeds and other factors which may be enhancing their growth.
FAQ's
WHAT WEEDS DO YOU TREAT IN LAWNS?
We treat a wide range of common broadleaf lawn weeds, including clover, dandelions, daisies and plantains.
HOW DOES LAWN WEED CONTROL WORK?
A selective herbicide (lawn weed control) is designed to target weeds without harming the grass when applied correctly.
HOW LONG DOES WEED CONTROL TAKE TO WORK?
Weeds usually begin to curl, discolour or weaken over the following days and weeks, although results vary by weed type and weather.
WILL ONE TREATMENT KILL ALL THE WEEDS IN MY LAWN?
Not always. Some lawns need repeated treatments to bring weeds under control properly. We expect 75-90% control with each treatment.
WHY DO I STILL HAVE WEEDS AFTER TREATMENT?
Some weeds are harder to control than others, and stressed or thin lawns are more likely to suffer repeat weed problems.
IS LAWN WEED KILLER SAFER FOR CHILDREN AND PETS?
Yes, once the product has dried and any instructions have been followed. For grazing pets, this period is 14 days.
CAN I MOW THE LAWN BEFORE OR AFTER WEED CONTROL?
We advise not to mow the lawn for two days before, and for two days following a weed control treatment.
WILL WEED CONTROL ALSO IMPROVE THE THICKNESS OF MY LAWN?
Weed control removes competition, but improving thickness usually also requires feeding and good lawn care.
IS PROFESSIONAL WEED CONTROL BETTER THAN DIY LAWN WEED KILLER?
Professional treatments are chosen and applied based on the weeds present and the condition of the lawn, which typically gives better results than using a general off-the-shelf product.