While weeds are visually unasthetic, they also compete with your desirable turfgrass for light, nutrients and water which can be to the detriment of your turf. They also have a tendency to grow faster than your lawn, requiring more unwanted attention.
When controlling weeds it is essential to first identify the weed or weeds you have. Turf Finder has gathered a detailed collection of narrow, broadleaf and grass weeds commonly seen growing within turfgrass. It is then important to look at an integrated control program of how you can treat and reduce future weed growth and development.
Pre-emergent weed control may be used to control a number of weeds. The pre-emergent herbicide, applied in either granular or liquid form, provides a barrier, which kills germinating weeds before they develop. Refer to their irrespective product lables for further details.
Pesticides work best when the target weed is actively growing. This will be different for different weeds. To ensure an effective kill, do not mow the turfgrass to be sprayed at least 3 days prior and after herbicide application. When spraying pesticides, either in a spray on bottle or knapscak, make sure you prevent any drift from your pesticide spray so you don't harm other plants in your, or your next-door neighbour's yard. Also be aware that some herbicides you may want to use to control any weeds in your lawn may also kill your turf. Be sure to read the product label carefully and only apply turf registered prodcuts.
If you do not wish to spray any pesticides, please visit our Turf Services section to see if a local contractor is available in your area once you have identified what weeds require control.
Below we have provided a range of turfgrass weeds which can be found within warm- and or cool-season turfgrasses. Included within each weed thumbnail are technical descriptors and control options for both the home owner and professional sports turf ground manager or superintendent. For further information on pesticide regulations and what you can legally spray, please visit our Pesticides page.