Leaves aren’t the only thing invading your lawn this fall. Weeds are still growing, even if you can’t see them. Fall is the best time of year to treat your yard for perennial broadleaf weeds. This is the season they’re storing energy to take over in the spring. You can stop them by acting now. Here are some tips on controlling fall lawn weeds.

Controlling Fall Lawn Weeds

Just when you think you’ve won the weed battle this year, those returning favorites are just gearing up for a comeback next spring. Perennial broadleaf weeds, like dandelions, are currently germinating and storing energy in their roots below the surface. So while you may not see them, you certainly will once they wake up refreshed in the spring.

However, if you act now, you can make sure they suck up weed control products instead of stealing nutrients from the soil. This way they won’t get the chance to fully germinate and will die back over the winter instead of using up that stored energy to survive. It’s easier to deal with them now than wait until they’re already established in the spring.

It’s also easier to control annual weeds, such as henbit and chickweed, in the fall. Many annual varieties are also germinating this time of year and will show up in the spring.

Types of Fall Weed Control

While you’re heading down the weed control aisle looking for the perfect product, keep these tips in mind:

• Liquid products offer better coverage and are therefore more effective on hardier weeds than granular products.
• Weeds should be actively growing and visible for liquids to do the most good.
• Only spray liquids when it’s not windy and the temperature is above 55 degrees.
• Granular products work better on damp grass they can stick to.
• Some of the most common weed control products come in granular form.

No matter which product you choose, remember to follow the instructions carefully for the best results, and multiple applications may be needed depending on the situation.

Post-Weed Control

Once your lawn is weed free you can help keep it that way by maintaining a thick healthy lawn. Fall is also a great time to seed and fertilize your lawn. You don’t want to apply weed control to any newly seeded areas, but you can seed and fertilize a short time after you’ve treated for weeds. The best time to fertilize is just after mowing. There are even multipurpose products that help weed and feed your lawn.

To get the most out of the season, contact the lawn care specialists at Cardinal Lawns for a consultation on what your lawn could use this time of year. The more you prep now, the happier and greener your lawn will be.