There are many types of weeds that can grow in lawns. The most common weeds include dandelions, chickweed, and henbit. Broadleaf weeds such as annual bluegrass, quackgrass and crabgrass are also common; these weeds spread by rhizomes or underground stems. plantains, marestail and thistle are other herbaceous perennial turf weeds commonly associated with dry soil conditions
If you’ve a lawn, you should be aware of the following weed species:
Common Ragweed
COMMON RAGWEED is a weed that grows like a weed and can survive frost, drought and salt water. It also forms large clusters of small yellow flowers that are attractive to pollinators such as bees & butterflies. If you see COMMON RAGWEED growing in your lawn – it’s time to take action!
Crabgrass
Crabgrass is a weed that spreads quickly throughout your lawn and is difficult to remove. If left unchecked, it can form dense patches, damage turfgrass and affect the overall quality of your lawn. Fortunately, ragwort can be treated in a number of ways, and removal is usually the best option.
Some common methods for removing crabgrass include herbicides or pesticides, while others use grass or root killers. If you’re unable to remove crabgrass yourself, hiring a professional may be the best solution for you. Remember to always read the product label before using a weed killer or pesticide & be sure to follow all safety guidelines to avoid potential accidents.
Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea)
This weed can do a lot of damage to the plants it eats, as well as flowers and trees. If you notice creeping Charlie growing in your lawn, remove it before it does too much damage. There are several options for controlling creeping Charlie – herbicides / insecticides, for example – so it’s important that you choose the best option for your lawn. Don’t let creeping charlie take over your yard or lawn – fight it and remove it today!
Dandelion
Dandelion is a weed that’s common in lawns across the United States. It can be difficult to remove because it spreads through underground roots and flowers. If you see dandelions growing in your lawn – you should use an herbicide that’s safe for pets and children. You can also try pulling out the dandelion before it blooms as that will reduce its rate of reproduction.
Ground Ivy
Ground ivy (Glechoma hederacea) is a common weed that can quickly overgrow lawns and gardens. This weed overgrows other plants – making it difficult to see or walk on the ground. It often spreads by underground stems and rhizomes.
So make sure you remove it completely before it gets out of control. There are many ways to control ground ivy – use herbicides, hoe it out or mow it as needed. If you’re having trouble getting rid of this weed, using herbicides may be the best solution. Remember to wear gloves & eye protection, and avoid breathing in the dandelion-like flowers of the weed.
Oxalis (also known as creeping wood sorrel)
Oxalis is a weed that can quickly overgrow a lawn and is difficult to get rid of. If you notice oxalis early, it’s important to take the proper steps to remove it. Oxalis prefers moist soil. Watering your lawn regularly can help reduce its growth. If oxalis spreads too much – you may need to hire a professional spraying service to eliminate the problem. Be sure to identify oxalis early so you can take the necessary steps to control its growth.
Pigweed (Amaranthus spp.)
Pigweed is a weed that grows in both dry and wet areas and is often found near water sources. This weed can cause great damage to turf if not eradicated quickly. Its sap causes the leaves to turn yellow and die, killing the underlying plant. If you discover Pigweed in your lawn, don’t wait. Have it removed as soon as possible to prevent damage to the lawn and possible loss of turf.
Plantain
Is plantain growing in your lawn PLANTAIN? If so, you should know how to get rid of it. PLANTAIN is a weed that grows quickly and is difficult to remove. Keep your lawn well watered and watch for signs that it’s growing near your home.
If you see PLANTAIN growing, hire a professional landscaper to deal with it. Crabgrass and dandelions are other weeds you should be aware of that may also need to be removed by a professional. Make sure your lawn stays weed-free and that lawn care is at the top of your to-do list this season!
Purslane
This weed is a type of broadleaf weed that grows quickly and can be difficult to remove. It produces large, floppy leaves that can discolor lawns bright green. PURSLANE also forms dense underground clumps that make it difficult to pull out by hand. If left untreated, PURSLANE will eventually spread through the soil and infest other plants in your yard or garden.
So if you notice weeds growing in abundance anywhere in your lawn, first try to remove them by hand. If that’s not possible, you should use an herbicide to get rid of the weeds quickly. Last but not least, always keep your lawn weed-free by mowing it regularly and using weed control products.
Quickgrass
This weed grows quickly, forms dense clumps, and has an unpleasant odor and taste. Not to mention, it is not easy to mow or remove. If you notice QUICKGRASS in your lawn, contact your local garden center for advice on how to control it. In the meantime, watch for signs that the plant is getting out of hand, such as dense clumps, an unpleasant odor or yellow flowers. Getting rid of QUICKGRASS as soon as you notice it can keep your lawn in good condition and prevent problems later.
Thistle
If you live in a warm, dry climate, you may be dealing with THISTLE. This weed is common in areas with a lot of turf and can cause a lot of damage. It is resistant to many herbicides, so be sure to consult a professional before taking action.
If you suspect your lawn contains THISTLE, contact a professional gardener. He can give you the best advice on how to remove the weed + restore your lawn to its former glory.
Nutsedge (Cyperus spp.)
Nutsedge is an invasive weed that can grow quickly in your lawn. It is difficult to remove and destroys the soil structure and fertility of your lawn. Nutsedge also produces large amounts of sap that can damage nearby plants or walkways. If you notice nutsedge growing in your lawn, get rid of it as soon as possible!
Buckhorn Plantain (Plantago lanceolata)
Buckhorn Plantain and nutsedge are two weeds to watch out for if you have a lawn. These weeds grow quickly, have spikes on their stems and large leaves. They can overgrow your lawn very quickly if not properly controlled. Therefore, it is important that you use weed killers – that specifically target these plants.
Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense)
Canada thistle and nutsedge are two common invasive plants that can quickly take over your lawn. Not only do they have sharp spines that damage lawns, flowers and vegetables, but they also reproduce quickly.
If you do not remove them before they become a problem, it will be difficult to completely stop their spread. In fact, if left unchecked, these weeds can overgrow an entire lawn in just a few years! So make sure you get rid of Canada thistle and nutsedge before they do any real damage – it will save you time and trouble later.
Bindweed
Bindweed is a common weed that grows in lawns and gardens. It can grow up to 2 feet tall, has branching stems and tiny white flowers. Bindweed causes problems by crowding out other plants, forming dense mats and blocking sunlight from reaching the soil below. To remove bindweed from your lawn, use an herbicide or hand weeder.
White Clover
This weed grows quickly and has deep roots, making it difficult to remove. White clover also produces a large amount of nitrogen in the soil, which can cause other plants to overgrow. If you see white clover growing in your lawn – act immediately and remove it with a shovel / hoe!
Lamb’s-Quarter
Lamb’s-quarter is a popular weed because of its psychoactive properties, which make it an ideal choice for recreational use. This weed can have negative effects on the environment, including suppressing plant growth and affecting property values. If you grow lambsquarters in your lawn – be sure to have a plan for disposal – or you could have a cannabis problem!
Plantain
One weed that is commonly found in lawns is plantain. Plantain grows quickly and can be difficult to get rid of, so it’s important to spot it early. If you see plantain growing, it’s best to control it with an herbicide like Roundup® or 2-4-D®. If you come in contact with them – be aware that plantain pollen can cause allergic reactions in people. So it’s important to avoid direct contact. If you do have to deal with plantain then you shall use a herbicide that is best suited for lawn weed control.
Dayflower
Dayflower is one of those weeds & it’s important to know how to remove it from your lawn. First, use the right herbicides or pesticides to get rid of daylily. Be sure to wait at least 48 hours – before planting other garden plants in the area. Second – be on the lookout for dayflower in future testing, if you see this weed frequently then invest in a professional weed killer.
Finally, be on the lookout for dayflower in future lawn care – as they may be an indication that you are not using the right herbicide or pesticide.
Velvetleaf
Velvetleaf is a weed that’s difficult to remove from lawns. Don’t rely on herbicides or pesticides – they only make the weed harder to control. Instead, use physical methods like mowing & removing dandelions. If you use an herbicide then wait at least 3 days before planting other garden plants in the area.
Wild Violet
As the name suggests, wild violets are a weed that typically grow in yards and gardens and can be difficult to remove. But don’t worry, because they contain thiamine, a vitamin B1. This means they aren’t suitable for pets / people who’re pregnant or nursing. Other weeds that might grow in your lawn include Japanese stilt grass, goldenrod, chickweed and speedwell.
While each weed has its own pros & cons, it’s important to be aware of them and get rid of them before they get too big. Follow these tips to keep your lawn weed-free and make it even weedier!
Smartweed
This weed grows quickly and produces a lot of pollen. As it grows, it can cover other plants with its pollen and make them infertile. If you’re having trouble controlling this weed, it’s best to remove it before it becomes a problem. Remember that ragwort is found in lawns, gardens & pastures, so be sure to keep an eye out for it. If you find it, remove it before it becomes a problem.
Quickweed
Quickweed is a weed species that grows quickly & becomes invasive in lawns. It can be difficult to remove, so it is important that you take steps to prevent its growth. Quickweed produces large amounts of chlorophyll – which makes it look green from a distance.
Knotweed
Knotweed is a weed that grows quickly and can be difficult to remove. If not removed in a timely manner, knotweed can quickly overgrow a lawn, leaving the soil soggy & muddy. Not only does this make it difficult for the plants to grow, but it can also form a dense canopy over the lawn that’s difficult to break through. If you notice knotweed creeping into your lawn – you should have it removed as soon as possible.
There are a few ways to do this, and the most effective is often trial & error. If you catch knotweed early, you can have it removed before it becomes a problem. If you discover knotweed in your lawn, don’t hesitate to have it removed – it’ll improve the health of your lawn and beautify the appearance of your property.
Pokeweed
It’s important to be aware of the types of weeds that are growing in your lawn. One of these weeds is pokeweed. Pokeweed is a type of weed that grows in both wet and dry areas. It’s known for its poisonous root that can cause serious health problems if ingested. If you see pokeweed growing in your lawn, be sure to remove it with a weed whacker or hoe ASAP.
For most people – occasionally eating small amounts of pokeweed has no negative effects. However, if you’re concerned about your health / fear that the weed may cause harm, it’s always best to seek professional advice.
Poison Ivy
If you live in the United States, you’re probably familiar with the weed known as Poison Ivy. This plant can be found everywhere & can cause severe skin irritation if you come in contact with it. Poison ivy isn’t only harmful to humans, but also to plants. If you discover poison ivy on your property, you should avoid contact with it.
If you do come in contact with it – remove the leaves and twigs immediately. If you’re allergic to poison ivy, you should also avoid contact when gardening. People who’re allergic to this weed should also keep their pets away from it, as they too can get sick if they come in contact with it.
Black nightshade
Black nightshade is a weed that grows in gardens and yards throughout the United States. This plant can be harmful to plants, people, and animals if ingested or if you come in contact with it. Symptoms of black nightshade ingestion include vomiting, diarrhea & cramps. If you see this weed growing in your lawn, take action before it becomes a problem. Cut it down, and if it is too difficult to remove, contact an experienced weed removal company.
Black Medic
It grows quickly and is resistant to common lawn care chemicals. If you have black medic in your lawn, it’s best to hire a professional gardener to safely remove it. Other common weeds include crabgrass, dandelions and red clover. If you have trouble removing these pesky weeds yourself, contact a lawn care professional who can help you get the job done right.
Dock
This weed grows best in water and can take over an entire area if not removed early. To get rid of dock, you can use herbicides or hand labor. Herbicides are the most common option and relatively easy to apply, but they can be harmful to the environment. If you want to avoid herbicides, use hand labor to remove the dock.
This way, you can ensure that the weed is eliminated without harming the environment. Once the dock is gone – you should also remove any other weeds that have grown in its place. Knowing the difference between dock and other weeds will help you avoid them in the future.
Henbit
Chickenweed is a weed that grows in lawns & can cause significant damage. Not only does it cause leaves to die, but it can also spread disease and affect the quality of your lawn. If you notice henbit growing in your lawn, it’s important to remove them before they spread too much. There are several methods you can use to remove henbit, including hand / using a weed killer.
Be careful when doing this – as henbit can be difficult to remove. Do your lawn a favor and get rid of henbit before they become a big problem!
Fleabane
Fleabane is an annual weed that grows in lawns & gardens. This weed produces a toxic flower that attracts insects, which helps the plant reproduce. When fleabane flowers are pollinated, they release a toxin that can harm nearby plants and animals. Fleabane can be controlled with herbicides – but it’s best to consult a professional first. If you are unsure how to control fleabane then contact a soil / pest management professional in your area for more information.
Nettle
This weed grows in poor soil conditions and has strong fibers that can damage lawns. If you see nettle growing in your lawn – get rid of it as soon as possible. You can use herbicides or even pruning shears to remove the weed before it spreads too far. Keep in mind that nettle can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions if ingested. So be sure to wear gloves when working with it.
Prostrate Spurge
This weed causes leaves to yellow and die, resulting in reduced growth and yields. If you discover spurge in your lawn, act quickly and use a pesticide designed specifically for this weed. Other weed control options include herbicides / dandelion root killers. For more information on weed control in lawns, check out our article!
Musk Thistle
If you live in an area prone to drought – you may be familiar with musk thistle. This weed can do a lot of damage to lawns and gardens if left unchecked. The seeds of musk thistle are poisonous. So be careful when handling or disposing of the leaves & flowers. Also, the plant is easily identified by its bright green leaves and purple flowers. If you come across this weed then you should spray it with an herbicide or mowing it down.
Ragweed
Ragweed is a weed that is found throughout the United States. It is a troublesome weed because it can cause respiratory problems in people and pets. Ragweed has long – slender stems that grow 3 to 4 feet tall. Ragweed leaves are compound, meaning they have several leaflets arranged along the stem.
Yellow Sweet Clover
This weed is easily identified because of its bright yellow flower heads. Once established – it grows quickly and is difficult to control. If you want to get rid of yellow sweet clover then you should use an herbicide or pull it out by hand.
Yellow Salsify
This weed is best removed with herbicides / by digging it out with a garden spade. If left untreated, yellow salsify will spread and take over your lawn over time. Other plants to watch out for include dandelions, crabgrass & annual ryegrass.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get rid of crabgrass in my lawn?
There are a few easy ways to get rid of crabgrass in your lawn. The most common method is to use a Roundup herbicide. Another effective method is to use an over-the-counter weed killer like 2, 4 D. You can also use oven cleaner or boiling water – just be sure to wear long pants, gloves & eye protection when doing so.
What’s a good fertilizer for weed control and how often should it be applied to successfully control weeds?
A weed control fertilizer can help control weeds by reducing the number of plants that grow. You can apply a weed control fertilizer every two to three weeks to achieve the desired results . Always read the label carefully and follow all safety precautions before using a weed control fertilizer. You do not have to use a specific type of weed control fertilizer – any substance high in nitrogen and low in phosphorus will do.