As the days get longer and the weather warms up, your garden and lawn spring to life—and unfortunately, so do the weeds. Left unchecked, they can quickly take over, stealing nutrients, water, and sunlight from your desired plants. But with a few simple strategies and the right tools, you can keep weeds under control throughout the spring and summer.
1. Start Early and Stay Consistent
The best time to tackle weeds is before they become a problem. Early spring is ideal for getting ahead of weed growth. Regular maintenance (even just a few minutes a week) is far more effective than letting things get out of hand.
2. Mulch Like a Pro
Mulching is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent weeds. A thick layer (2-3 inches) of organic mulch like shredded bark, straw, or wood chips blocks sunlight from reaching weed seeds and keeps your soil moist and cool. Bonus: it also makes your garden look tidy.
Pro tip: Avoid piling mulch right up against plant stems, leave a little breathing room to prevent rot.
3. Use Pre-Emergent Herbicides
Pre-emergent herbicides work by stopping weed seeds from germinating. Apply them in early spring before weeds like crabgrass and dandelions start to grow. These are great for lawns and flower beds but shouldn't be used where you plan to sow seeds.
Look for products like:
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Prodiamine & Dimension Fertilizers (Part of our 7-Step Fertilizer Program)
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Quali-Pro Prodiamine 4L Pre-emergent Herbicide
4. Weed After Rain or Watering
If you’re pulling weeds by hand, do it after a good rain or watering session. The soil will be softer, and weeds (especially the root systems) come out more easily.
5. Mow High and Often
For lawns, mow regularly and keep your grass about 3 inches tall. Taller grass shades the soil, which prevents weed seeds from sprouting and helps your lawn outcompete invaders naturally.
6. Spot-Treat Persistent Weeds
For tough, established weeds like thistles, bindweed, or poison ivy, use targeted herbicide applications. Choose products that won’t harm nearby grass or plants (selective herbicides), or opt for a natural solution like vinegar sprays for patios or cracks.
Popular options:
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SedgeHammer Plus Herbicide
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Q4 Plus Herbicide
- Ranger Pro Herbicide
- Homemade vinegar + dish soap + salt spray (for driveways and sidewalks)
7. Stay On It All Summer
Weeding isn’t a one-and-done task—it’s more like brushing your teeth. A little regular attention goes a long way. Keep tools handy, and make it part of your weekly routine to inspect for new weed growth.