The short version: the three most common Texas lawn weeds are crabgrass, Poa annua (annual bluegrass), and dandelions. Crabgrass is an annual that shows up in spring, Poa annua germinates in the cooler months, and dandelions are perennials with a deep taproot. The best defense against all three is a thick, healthy lawn plus well-timed pre-emergent and post-emergent weed control. Below is how to spot each one and how to get rid of it.
Dealing with weeds is the frustrating reality of owning a lawn. You can do everything right and still have weeds crop up everywhere, and weed control can be tricky; even lawn care companies sometimes struggle to get rid of common weeds in Texas completely. Keep reading for the three most common Texas weeds and how to get rid of them.
1. Smooth Crabgrass and Hairy Crabgrass
How to spot crabgrass
Texas is home to two different types of crabgrass; smooth crabgrass and hairy crabgrass. Both of these weeds are annual weeds and tend to pop up in early to mid-spring.
Crabgrass spreads very quickly and can easily dominate your entire lawn if left unattended. In addition, crabgrass needs sunlight to grow, so lawns that are thin or cut very short are easier for the weed to take over. Because of this, one of the best ways to combat crabgrass is to maintain a healthy lawn since it will struggle to spread in dense turfgrass.
How to get rid of crabgrass
To prevent crabgrass from taking hold, you need to:
- Mow your lawn regularly
- Follow a good watering schedule
- Fertilize your lawn
- Use pre-emergent weed control
If your lawn has been neglected and various Texas weeds have taken over, you'll need to remove the crabgrass by digging it out physically. The bare spots will then need to be filled with sod.
2. Poa Annua (Annual Bluegrass)
How to spot Poa annua
Poa annua is also known as annual bluegrass. This weed grows upright and can be identified by its creeping stolons. Poa annua usually appears in late summer but can persist into fall.
How to get rid of Poa annua
Its seeds germinate during fall, winter, and spring. Because it has such a large germination period, it can be difficult to control. Pre- and post-emergent weed control is usually needed to prevent Poa annua from constantly popping up.
3. Dandelions
How to spot dandelions
You might not consider this cheery yellow flower a weed, but this thick taproot can quickly become a nuisance if you don't take care of it. Dandelions usually appear from April to June before the flower head matures and the seeds disperse.
How to get rid of dandelions
Dandelions are perennial, so if you don't take matters into your own hands, you'll never be rid of them. Dandelions need to be treated with post-emergent and liquid weed control. Like most common weeds in Texas, the best defense against dandelions is to have a thick and healthy lawn.
Eradicate These Common Texas Weeds
Being able to spot and get rid of common Texas weeds is the first step in maintaining a healthy lawn. Weeds require constant attention to ensure they don't pop up again when you least expect it. The best defense against these Texas grass weeds is maintaining a healthy lawn throughout the year.
If you want to make sure your yard is weed free, it's best to hire professionals to take care of the job. Contact us to help you with all your lawn care services and needs today!
