Dealing with Winter Weeds in Southern Lawns

While many northern states are covered in snow, the mild winters in the south leave lawns vulnerable to weed growth. While southern lawns often transition into a state of dormancy over the winter, many winter weeds remain active. Believe it or not, fall and winter weed control is equally as important for your lawn as spring and summer weed control. Unfortunately, many homeowners fail to realize this and often neglect their lawn during this time of the year. As a homeowner, it’s important to learn what you should keep an eye out for and how to manage pesky winter weeds. 

Why Are Winter Weeds Harmful to Your Lawn?

Not only are winter weeds unsightly, they can also be extremely damaging for your turf as it heads into the spring growing season. Winter weeds create competition for sunlight, moisture and nutrients and can overrun your lawn by starving out healthy grass. When winter weeds eventually die off, your lawn may be left with bare and thin areas that then become more susceptible to common annuals such as crabgrass.
 

Common Types of Winter Weeds

1. Chickweed

2. Henbit

3.Annual Blue Grass (poa annua)

How to Manage Winter Weeds

The best defense against the growth of winter weeds is a strong, thick, healthy lawn. During the growing season, it is important that your lawn is well fertilized, mowed at the right height and getting enough water on a consistent basis. That way when winter rolls around your lawn will be more resilient, making weed growth difficult.

Even if your lawn is well maintained, taking the appropriate measures to prevent and manage winter weeds is recommended. Managing winter weeds actually starts in late summer/early fall prior to winter annual weed germination. During this time, it is important to apply a pre-emergent weed control to suppress the growth of winter weeds. During the winter, if you notice weeds popping up, you can use post-emergent herbicides on an as-needed basis.

Knowing how and when to apply different weed control products can often create some confusion for homeowners. If you ever need help managing winter weeds, don’t hesitate to contact your local Weed Man. We would be more than happy to help!

Brought to you by Weed Man Lawn Care: We care for your lawn.