Weeds are the number one pest problem in home lawns. The most important message to convey to homeowners seeking to reduce weed problems is to emphasize that weeds are a result of poor lawn management. Occasionally the wrong turfgrass species is being grown: homeowners with serious lawn problems should first consult UW Extension bulletin “Lawn Establishment and Renovation, Publication No. A3434” to make sure they are using the correct grass for the site. Local county extension agents can help them identify the grass type(s).

Good lawn management requires three cultural practices: proper mowing, fertilization, and irrigation. Mowing at the correct height and frequency actually stimulates growth and produces a thicker lawn which prevents weeds from getting established. Most lawns should be mowed between two and three inch height. Any given mowing should adhere to the 1/3 Rule: never remove more than 1/3 the height of the leaf at any mowing. Thus, a lawn which is 3 inches tall should not be mowed shorter than 2 inches. Mowing frequency will depend on the growing conditions: more often in spring, perhaps two to three times a week; in summer and fall once weekly is usually sufficient. Most lawns should be fertilized three or four times annually with about 1 lb nitrogen per thousand square feet each time. Suggest the “Holiday Schedule” for convenience: Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, and Halloween. The July 4 fertilization should be skipped if the turf is dormant due to heat and/or drought. Many homeowners choose to not or are prohibited by local ordinance from water their lawns during drought periods. Since water is required for turf growth and cooling, turf leaves may turn brown and dry during prolonged droughts. The thin turf allows weeds which have low water requirements to gain a toehold.