Weeds
Weeds can simply be defined as unwanted plants and as homeowners
we face many challenges controlling weeds. The first and best
method of weed control begins with proper maintenance practices
which will encourage a dense, vigorous turf. Healthy turf shades
the soil so sunlight cant reach weed seeds ready to germinate.
A thick turf also minimizes the physical space available for weeds
to become established.
Bare areas in your lawn should be resodded to help prevent weed
infestation as weed control cannot be
accomplished in these areas.
Proper cultural practices also have a tremendous impact on your
weed control goals. Here are some examples
of conditions which
will encourage weed growth.
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Overwatering - Many weeds thrive on excessive
moisture such as Dollar Weed, Sedge and Crabgrass.
Weeds cannot be controlled in areas which are being
overwatered or which retain a lot of moisture.
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Underwatering - Certain weeds such as Florida
Pusley and Spruge will thrive under dry conditions. |
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Mowing Too Short - Mowing too short will
decrease the density of the turf therefore allowing
weeds to flourish. |
Certain weeds or grass varieties cannot be controlled chemically.
Bermuda, Alexander and Torpedo Grass are some examples of
undesirable grasses which infest and take over St. Augustine
lawns. There are no products available which will provide
pre or post emergent control. Resodding is the only way
to correct this situation and nothing will prevent these
grasses from possibly reinfesting in the future.
Crabgrass
Unfortunately there is no longer a post emergent weed control
available for crabgrass. This is another situation where
the areas of infestation would have to be resodded. Drake,
however is taking an extra step in the early spring months
by applying a pre-emergent weed control which will help
to reduce but not eliminate the generation of crabgrass.
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