Wondering how to kill winter weeds?
Killing weeds in winter can be a daunting task, but no matter the season, maintaining a healthy lawn can be easy. Starting early is recommended as most weed growth will begin in the fall. Below is a guide to help you through the process.
Let’s Get Started
Weed control, much like any home DIY project, will require some preparation to ensure the best results.
Which Winter Weeds Do You Have?
Start by identifying the weeds in your garden. There are two common types of winter weeds. The first is the broadleaf, which can include the common chickweed and henbit, and the second is the Poa Annua (or annual meadow grass), which is widespread and low growing.
Best Time To Kill Weeds In Winter
Check the weather conditions of the coming days. Pick a cluster of days with warmer temperatures as most weeds won’t take the treatment when it is cooler
Mow Your Lawn
Mowing your lawn encourages growth and prevents disease. Attach a bag to the mower to catch any seeds to help reduce the spread of weeds in the coming spring. Aerating your lawn in late fall assists in root growth and promotes breathing. Use a spike or plug aerator to poke small holes in the ground allowing nutrients, water, and air to be absorbed.
Have A Read
Read every product label carefully to ensure that any products are correctly applied.
Common Weed Control Methods
There are plenty of products and methods to choose from for winter weed control. Identifying the type of weeds and grass ahead of time will help you choose the right one for your garden.
Mulching
Mulching is an environmentally friendly and chemical-free option safe for both you and your lawn. For mulch, you can use dead leaves, shredded bark, grass clippings, or straw. Calculate how much mulch you will need to cover your lawn. A quick ratio would be one cubic yard to 390 square yards of lawn. Overlap newspapers or cardboard anywhere you do not intend to plant. Make sure there are no gaps as this will promote weed growth. This can keep winter weeds out for up to two years. Next, spray the paper with water until it is soaked. Evenly spread the mulch on the paper. Be careful not to smother any plants in the area but cover any weeds completely.
Use A Home-Made Killer.
A cheap remedy for homemade winter weed control can be made from everyday kitchen products. You will need two pints of vinegar, one teaspoon of natural dish soap, and a garden spray. Mix the vinegar and dish soap before adding it to the garden spray. Spray as much as needed until it kills all the weeds, being mindful of any plants around the lawn. Vinegar spray is especially effective on dandelion and crabgrass when sprayed directly onto the plant.
Weed Torch
A weed torch is an alternative to sprays. Winter is the safest time of year to use a weed torch. Clear the lawn of any debris (dry leaves especially), assemble the weed torch, and point the flame directly at the weeds until they burn. A weed torch is useful for weeds that grow between pavers and gravel.
Weed Sprays
There are many commercial weed killing products available. Most of these products are available ready mixed or as a concentrate. In most cases, one application will control winter weeds.No weed spray is harmful to your lawn when used correctly so follow the instructions. However, not all sprays will work for all lawn types. Spot test a patch of your lawn to check if you are unsure. Do not spray on the frozen or snow-covered ground as the grass will not absorb it.
Winter is a great time to hibernate and cozy up around a fireplace, but spending time tending to your lawn can be just as enjoyable. Preparing a maintenance plan for fall and spring will also help reduce germination. Make sure to identify which weeds you have to choose the right method and achieve the best results. Follow the instructions provided so you don’t risk harming other plants (or your family!). Starting the control before winter hits will set you up for success.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to dealing with winter weeds, you have a few options: pulling by hand, using homemade solutions, chemical weed killers in the store, or if you’re feeling a little fiery this winter, a weed torch.
Winter is coming, so let’s get weedy!
