Now that your grass is growing slower, you may think the weeds are too. Well, they’re still out there! In fact, some weeds—like henbit—are in the process of germinating now, even though you won’t see them until spring. So, there’s such a thing as fall lawn weeds, and there are ways to stop them.

Fall Lawn Weeds

While you may see more weeds in the spring and summer when everything is growing—like a weed—some weeds continue growing in the fall and are able to survive the winter. Weeds that germinate in fall overwinter as young plants and prosper once the weather warms again.

Of course, if you live in a warmer climate, weeds continue to grow well into the winter months. They eventually die when it gets too hot, but they’ve already dropped new seeds that are waiting for the weather to cool.

Some of the common fall lawn weeds include:

• Henbit
• Dandelion
• Deadnettle
• Chickweed
• Prickly lettuce
• Bluegrass
• Wild mustard
• Horseweed
• Sow thistle

Fall Weed Prevention

There are herbicides that help create a barrier to stop weed seeds from germinating. Different products last for various amounts of time. Become familiar with the product you intend on using and how often it should be reapplied.

Some herbicides also kill existing weeds. Be cautious when using any treatment, for it could end up killing grass and plants you want to keep. Also, clean any tools you use to help prevent the spread of weed seed. Remove any perennial weeds and seasonal annuals before applying preventative herbicide.

The best way to prevent any type of weed is to properly maintain your lawn. Keep it well trimmed, watered, and fed. The lushness helps block out weeds that prefer to grow along with dead patches of grass.

For more information on dealing with weeds at any time of the year, contact the lawn care experts at Cardinal Lawns.