A weed in a home landscape is defined as a plant in an undesirable location. Whether this plant is a “true weed” or a desired plant that has become invasive, steps must be taken to limit the effect on the surrounding plants’ growth and improve the visual quality of the landscape.

Any successful weed control program should be multifaceted and include scouting, sanitation, cultural control, mechanical removal, and, when necessary, chemical control methods.

It is important to know the type of weed and its location within the landscape.

It is beneficial to identify the weed, either by genus and species, or at least by family. If this is not possible, the next step is to determine what kind of weed it is.

In what habitat does the weed exist? Considering the home landscape can help split up the location of weeds to better inform weed control decisions.

Home Garden – Many people are producing vegetables and fruits in home gardens. Use of an herbicide in a home garden is most likely unnecessary and could cause injury to the desired plants.

Planting Beds – Annual and herbaceous perennial beds are very common places for weeds to emerge. Any chemical control should be used prior to planting these beds.

Shrubs and Tree Beds – Weeds can become a problem around shrub beds and trees. Hand pulling is always an option in these areas, while mechanical cultivation can cause injury to the roots of the shrubs and trees.

Driveways and Walkways – Unsightly weeds can emerge in the cracks of hardscapes, such as walkways and driveways, and cause damage to the edges of the cement or asphalt.

Nonlandscape Areas – Waste areas are where most invasive weeds are usually found. They are along the edge of the property and can creep into planting beds, turf, and hardscapes. Many products are available for use in these areas, but sanitation is the best means to prevent the movement of these weeds back into the landscape.

Once a weed management program is started, be persistent. A steady effort will reduce the levels of weeds in the landscape, making future weeding easier.

For professional residential or commercial weed control services in St Johns County, Julington Creek Plantation, Durbin Creek, Nocatee. and surrounding communities. Call or contact us today.

The preceding information provided for informational purposes. Experts courtesy of: UF/IFAS. “Homeowner Considerations Prior to Selecting a Weed Control Product“; Andrew W. MacRae and Marina D’Abreau; Photo Courtesy: Flikr®.com; tuchodi