When it comes to lawn weed control, many Boston homeowners aim for spring to tackle the job. But did you know that fall is actually a better time of year? When it comes to autumn treatments, not only will you get a jumpstart on those weeds germinating so they don’t come back next year, but also those that tend to pop up and spread during cooler months. These include:
- Henbit
- Corn speedwell
- Common chickweed
- Hairy bittercress
- Purple deadnettle
Why Fall is an Ideal Time in Boston
Fall is an excellent time of year in the Boston area to get control over a variety of different lawn weeds. This is for a few different reasons. First and foremost, weeds are storing up energy reserves for the harsh winter ahead. That means they’re drinking in what’s applied to them, moving nutrients, energy – and weed control products – from the leaves to the roots. Treatments are therefore more effective. During spring and warmer weather months, this process is reversed with roots expending energy upward to support plant growth.
Another reason fall is an ideal time of year for lawn weed control in Boston is that many types, including some of the most stubborn – like dandelion, henbit, and chickweed – germinate during cooler, moist months. They then survive as small plants throughout winter, only to blossom and explode once warmer weather appears. At this point, it’s much harder to control them. However, a pre-emergent treatment in early fall will suppress the development process. Even if they’re already growing, a fall weed treatment is more effective since plants are so small and not well-established.
Other Treatments to Focus On for Fall Lawn Weed Control in Boston
At Lawn Doctor of Boston, we know if you want to get the most from fall lawn weed control treatments, it’s also important to ensure your yard is as healthy as possible. A strong, thick lawn can work wonders when it comes to crowding out aggressive weeds. Fall is a good time for other treatments that can promote this kind of growth. So consider aerating your soil to loosen up compaction, seeding your lawn with newer, more weed-resistant varieties, and fertilizing to help your turf weather the harsh winter ahead. As a result, you’ll also have a lawn that can better fight off aggressive weeds come spring.
Call Lawn Doctor of Boston today at (781) 826-2920 to find out more. We offer free fall lawn weed control consultations to customers across the Boston, MA area, including in surrounding communities, like Metro West, Framingham, Newton, Milton, Dedham, Braintree, Weymouth, and Quincy.
