If you’re like many homeowners across the Naperville, IL area, getting rid of stubborn dandelions and other broadleaf and grassy weeds in your lawn is your #1 lawn weed control concern. Just when you think you’ve treated and suppressed your last one, another grows in and they continue their cycle of populating your lawn. It’s certainly a frustrating experience.
But at Lawn Doctor of Batavia-Aurora, we know there are some simple steps you can take to gain control over dandelions and other broadleaf and grassy weeds and make your lawn a less friendly environment for weeds in general. Here’s a look at them:
Thicken your lawn. As local lawn weed control experts in the Naperville area, Lawn Doctor of Batavia-Aurora recommends keeping your lawn healthy and strong to naturally fight off a weed invasion. One particular area to focus on is thickness. Thick turf means weeds won’t have the space to germinate and take root, nor will they have access to much-needed sunlight. Likewise, a thick lawn means a deep root system more efficient at taking in key nutrients and water.
If your lawn is, in fact, thinning, seeding will help to reduce weed growth. Fall is typically the best time for seeding, which can limit the number of dandelions and other broadleaf and grassy weeds in your lawn next year.
Aerate your lawn. When it comes to dandelions and other broadleaf weeds, they actually thrive in compressed soil. Your grass roots, however, will have a tough time taking in enough oxygen, water and nutrients. The grass will even begin to suffocate. That’s why compressed soil is often a recipe for a dandelion and weed takeover.
To test for soil compaction in your lawn, stick a screwdriver into the soil. If you encounter a lot of resistance, it’s likely due to compaction. Your next step should be lawn aeration.
Mulch your landscaping. Dandelions and other broadleaf and grassy weeds don’t only go after grass, they also like to get established in garden beds, as well. When this happens, mulch can go a long way in suppressing a weed takeover. Not only does a thick layer of mulch prevent dandelion and other weed seeds from getting much-needed sunlight, stifling weed growth, but it also lowers the soil temperature and conserves moisture. This provides for more favorable growing conditions for your landscape plants.
Be mindful with hand pulling. When you notice a few dandelion weeds in your lawn, you can remove them by hand. When you do, though, just make sure you get the full root out. Some can go quite deep into the soil and all need to be completely removed. If even the smallest bit of root stays in the soil, it will regenerate.
Ready for Professional Lawn Weed Control Help in the Naperville Area?
Call Lawn Doctor of Batavia-Aurora. From stubborn and aggressive dandelions to crabgrass, wild violets, chickweed, and clover, we know how to help with lawn weed control for homeowners across the Naperville area. We offer a range of services, including pre-emergent, post-emergent and preventative care, to suppress weeds, prevent them from coming back, and restore your lawn’s health and beauty.
Our lawn weed control services are available to customers in Naperville, Batavia, Aurora, Lisle, Downers Grove and St. Charles, IL. To schedule your free consultation, call Lawn Doctor of Batavia-Aurora today at 630.406.8535.
