How to Prevent Weeds Before They Start
Weeds: the uninvited guests that keep appearing on your lawn. They’re sneaky, stubborn, and ready to ruin your yard’s spring glow-up. But don’t worry! With a little planning, you can stop those pesky weeds before they even show their ugly heads. Here’s how to take charge and keep your lawn weed-free this spring.
1. Start with Pre-Emergent Weed Control
Think of pre-emergent herbicide as a forcefield for your lawn. It stops weed seeds from germinating, which means fewer problems later. The trick is to apply it early in the season—usually late February to mid-March in Oklahoma—before the soil warms up too much. Pruett Lawn & Landscape can assist you in choosing and applying your pre-emergent.
2. Keep Your Lawn Thick and Healthy
A healthy lawn is like an anti-weed army. Thick, lush grass blocks sunlight from reaching weed seeds, making it harder for them to sprout. Keep your grass strong by fertilizing (but not too much!), watering wisely, and mowing at the right height—around 2.5 to 3 inches for most grasses.
3. Mulch, Mulch, Mulch
For flower beds and garden areas, mulch is your best friend. A 2-3 inch layer of mulch does wonders to smother weeds and lock in moisture for your plants. Plus, it gives your yard that polished, professional look.
Pro tip: Use organic mulch for added nutrients as it breaks down.
4. Don’t Disturb the Soil
Ever notice weeds popping up after you dig or rake? That’s because disturbing the soil brings dormant weed seeds to the surface. Try to minimize soil disruption unless you’re planting something new. When you do need to dig, cover the area with mulch or grass seed right away to keep weeds from taking over.
5. Water Smart, Not Hard
Weeds love water just as much as your grass does, so don’t overdo it. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth for your lawn. Shallow, frequent watering only makes it easier for weeds to grow. Aim for about an inch of water per week (including rainfall).
6. Pull Weeds Early (and Completely)
If you do spot a weed or two, don’t wait for them to spread. Pull them out by the root as soon as you see them. The earlier you tackle them, the easier it is to stay ahead. Pro Tip: Pull weeds after a rain or watering session—they’ll slide out of the soil much easier.
Need a Hand? Feeling overwhelmed or just want some professional help? Pruett Lawn & Landscape in Oklahoma City is ready to assist with all your weed control needs. With services ranging from lawn maintenance to landscape installation, we’ve got you covered. Visit our contact page to get started.
A Weed-Free Spring Starts with You
Stopping weeds before they start takes a little effort now, but it’ll save you hours of frustration later. Remember: pre-emergents are your first line of defense and mulch works wonders; a healthy lawn is your best weapon.
