Weed Control 101
How to Control Weeds
What to do and why.
Types of Herbicides
There are two main types of herbicides: selective and non-selective.
Selective Herbicides:
Selective herbicides are designed to target specific types of weeds while leaving desirable plants unharmed. They work by exploiting biological differences between weed species and cultivated plants. Selective herbicides are particularly useful in lawns, where the goal is to eliminate weeds without damaging the grass.
Non-Selective Herbicides:
Non-selective herbicides, as the name suggests, are designed to kill or control all vegetation they come into contact with. They do not discriminate between weeds and desirable plants. Non-selective herbicides are commonly used in areas where complete vegetation removal is desired, such as driveways, sidewalks, or vacant lots.
Modes of Action
Herbicides work through various modes of action, targeting different parts of the weed to disrupt growth and eventually kill the plant. Understanding these modes of action can help you choose the right herbicide for your specific weed problem.
Contact Herbicides:
Contact herbicides kill plants upon direct contact with the foliage. They are particularly effective against annual weeds and grasses. However, they may not eradicate weeds with extensive root systems since they only affect the parts of the plant they touch.
Systemic Herbicides:
Systemic herbicides are absorbed by the plant and transported throughout its system, including the roots. They provide a more comprehensive control approach, as they target both the foliage and the roots. Systemic herbicides are effective against perennial weeds and can offer long-term suppression.
Pre-Emergent Herbicides:
Pre-emergent herbicides are applied to the soil before weed seeds germinate. They form a barrier that inhibits weed seedlings from developing roots and shoots. Pre-emergent herbicides are commonly used to prevent annual weeds from establishing in lawns and garden beds.
Post-Emergent Herbicides:
Post-emergent herbicides are applied directly to weeds that have already emerged. They target actively growing plants and can be either selective or non-selective. Post-emergent herbicides are effective against both annual and perennial weeds, providing targeted control.
Safe and Responsible Use
When using herbicides, it's essential to prioritize safety and responsible application. Here are some guidelines to follow:
Read and follow the label instructions carefully: The herbicide label provides vital information on dosage, application methods, safety precautions, and proper storage. Adhering to the instructions ensures effective and safe use.
Wear protective clothing and equipment: Use appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, long sleeves, long pants, and eye protection, when handling and applying herbicides. This protects you from potential skin irritation or exposure.
Choose the right herbicide for the target weed: Identify the weed species you want to control and select a herbicide specifically designed to target that type of weed. This ensures effective control while minimizing the impact on desirable plants.
Apply herbicides during optimal weather conditions: Follow the recommended application guidelines, taking into account temperature, humidity, and wind conditions. Applying herbicides during unfavorable weather conditions may reduce their efficacy or lead to unintended damage.
Avoid overspraying and drift: Apply herbicides with precision, targeting the weed foliage while minimizing contact with desirable plants. Avoid overspraying or allowing the herbicide to drift onto unintended areas, as this can harm nearby plants.
Conclusion
Weed control can seem confusing, but it is very simple. Start a consistent pre-emergent cycle to address weeds before they grow, and target currently growing weeds with a selective post emergent. Weed control is a constant battle, but by following a consisted schedule the battle will get easier and easier.Â
Learn more about different weed types here.
Learn more about our lawn health plan that address lawn weeds here.Â