Introduction
Keeping a lawn free of weeds is a challenge that every homeowner faces. Weeds are persistent, fast-spreading, and take away essential nutrients from your grass, leaving your yard looking patchy and unhealthy. View our guide.
Homeowners in Rockwall, TX, Heath, Royse City, and Rowlett need a combination of prevention, maintenance, and treatment to keep weeds under control. In this guide, weβll explore the most effective weed control strategies, so you can maintain a healthy, green lawn all year long.
1. Start with Pre-Emergent Weed Control
The best way to fight weeds is to prevent them before they grow. Pre-emergent herbicides create a barrier in the soil that stops weed seeds from germinating.
When to Apply Pre-Emergents in Rockwall, TX
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Spring (February – March): Stops crabgrass, spurge, and other summer weeds.
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Fall (September – October): Prevents cool-season weeds like henbit and chickweed.
β Pro Tip: Apply before soil temperatures reach 55Β°F in the spring and below 70Β°F in the fall for best results.
2. Eliminate Existing Weeds with Post-Emergent Treatments
If weeds have already appeared, post-emergent herbicides help kill them at the root.
π± Selective Post-Emergents β Target specific weeds like dandelions and clover without harming grass.
π± Non-Selective Herbicides β Kill all vegetation (best for driveways or walkways, not your lawn).
π« Mistake to Avoid: Spraying weeds on windy or rainy days can reduce effectiveness and spread chemicals where theyβre not needed.
β Pro Tip: Apply post-emergent herbicides in early morning or late evening for maximum absorption.
3. Mow Correctly to Keep Weeds Away
Mowing your lawn at the right height is crucial for weed prevention. Many homeowners mow too short, which weakens grass and allows weeds to thrive.
Recommended Mowing Heights
β Bermuda Grass β 1.5 to 2 inches
β St. Augustine Grass β 3 to 4 inches
β Zoysia Grass β 2 to 2.5 inches
β Pro Tip: Never remove more than 1/3 of the grass blade at a timeβthis keeps your lawn strong and weed-resistant.
4. Water Wisely to Strengthen Grass
Watering your lawn properly gives your grass the advantage over weeds.
π§ Water Deeply, Not Frequently β Helps grass develop deep roots that outcompete weeds.
π§ Morning Watering is Best β Prevents moisture from sitting on the grass overnight, reducing fungal issues.
π« Mistake to Avoid: Frequent shallow watering weakens grass and encourages weed growth.
β Pro Tip: Aim for 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, applied in two deep watering sessions.
5. Fertilize to Keep Weeds from Taking Over
Fertilization strengthens your lawn, making it less vulnerable to weed invasions.
Best Fertilization Schedule for Rockwall, TX
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Early Spring: Jumpstarts grass growth.
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Late Spring: Supports healthy root development.
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Summer: Helps grass withstand heat stress.
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Fall: Prepares the lawn for winter dormancy.
π« Mistake to Avoid: Using too much nitrogen can encourage weed growth instead of strengthening grass.
β Pro Tip: Use slow-release fertilizers for long-term grass health.
6. Improve Soil Health with Aeration and Overseeding
If your lawn is thin, patchy, or compacted, weeds will take over. Aeration and overseeding can help.
πΉ Aeration: Loosens compacted soil, improves oxygen flow, and enhances nutrient absorption.
πΉ Overseeding: Fills in bare spots, making it harder for weeds to establish.
β Pro Tip: Overseed in fall or early spring when temperatures are mild for best germination.
7. Identify and Treat Common Weeds in Rockwall, TX
Different weeds require different control methods. Here are some of the most common weeds in our area and how to treat them:
| Weed | Type | Best Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Crabgrass | Annual Grass | Pre-emergent herbicide (Spring) |
| Dandelion | Broadleaf | Post-emergent herbicide, hand-pulling |
| Clover | Broadleaf | Fertilization + post-emergent treatment |
| Spurge | Broadleaf | Pre-emergent (Spring) + spot treatment |
| Nutsedge | Perennial Grass | Selective herbicide designed for nutsedge |
π« Mistake to Avoid: Pulling weeds without removing the full root system allows them to regrow quickly.
β Pro Tip: Use selective herbicides for broadleaf weeds and pre-emergents to prevent future growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take for Weed Control to Work?
- Pre-emergent herbicides stop weeds before they start growing.
- Post-emergent treatments take 5-14 days to show visible results.
Can I Use DIY Weed Control Methods?
Some natural methods, like vinegar sprays, can kill surface weeds but wonβt stop deep-rooted weeds from regrowing. Professional treatments offer better long-term results.
What If My Lawn Is Already Full of Weeds?
For large infestations, a combination of post-emergent treatments, fertilization, aeration, and overseeding will help restore your lawn.
Will I Need Multiple Weed Treatments?
Yes! Weeds grow year-round, so consistent treatments ensure long-term control.
Conclusion
Keeping weeds out of your lawn requires a combination of prevention, proper lawn care, and targeted treatments. By following these essential weed control tips, homeowners in Rockwall, TX, Heath, Royse City, and Rowlett can maintain a lush, green lawn free from unwanted weeds.
For the best results, trust Green Lawn Fertilizing to provide expert weed control services customized to your lawnβs needs. Contact us today to schedule your professional lawn treatment and enjoy a weed-free yard year-round!
