One of the most pressing challenges in turfgrass management is re-cultivation, particularly due to the increasing problem of weeds. As weeds proliferate, they not only make the lawn look uneven but also negatively impact its overall health and visual appeal. Lawn weeds compete with the grass for nutrients, water, space, and light, which weakens the turfgrass and reduces its aesthetic value. Additionally, damaged turfgrass becomes more fragile, less resilient to cold, drought, and foot traffic, making it prone to degradation or even death. This can lead to thinning or bare patches, which are unsightly and costly to repair. Therefore, effective weed control is essential in maintaining a healthy and attractive lawn.
Weeds that damage turfgrass can be broadly categorized into three main types: grassy weeds, sedge weeds, and broadleaf weeds. Grassy and sedge weeds are classified as monocots, while broadleaf weeds are considered dicots. Understanding these categories helps in choosing the right herbicides and application methods for each type of weed.
For annual grassy weeds, several herbicides such as valerate, sulfosate, chlorate, and dimethyl tetrachloride can be used. These are typically applied before germination for optimal effectiveness. However, perennial grassy weeds are more challenging because their biological and anatomical features are similar to those of turfgrass. This makes it difficult to target them without harming the desired grass. In such cases, non-selective herbicides like glyphosate, chlorsulfuron, and fluazifop are often used, either through spraying or directed application. For broadleaf weeds, selective herbicides such as paraquat, dicamba, and 2,4-D are commonly used, usually during the spring and autumn when the turf is mature. It’s important to apply these herbicides on moist soil and on windless days to ensure maximum efficacy and minimize drift.
Selective herbicides are generally applied after weeds have emerged and are often used in combination with other products for better results. Using them alone may reduce their effectiveness. For annual grassy weeds, the key is to act before they sprout, as post-emergence options are limited. Care must be taken during application to avoid damaging the turf. Perennial grassy weeds, which reproduce mainly through vegetative growth, are harder to control. During summer, spot-spraying or applying high-concentration herbicides like glyphosate directly to the weeds can be effective. Spot treatment works well for weeds that are shorter than the grass, while smearing is more suitable for taller weeds.
When dealing with Cyperaceae (sedge) weeds, using a bud inhibitor like shapron is recommended. The best time to apply this is when the turf has developed 4 to 5 leaves, or within 7 days of planting. For newly established lawns, it's important to apply the herbicide before the grass turns green. Pre-emergence treatments for broadleaf weeds are often done alongside grass weed control, using products like pendimethalin or acetochlor. Post-emergence treatments should be applied when the weeds have 2 to 4 leaves, using herbicides such as 2,4-D or dicamba.
In live-planted lawns, it’s common to use glyphosate or Gramoxone before seeding to treat the soil. However, care must be taken to allow at least 3 to 5 days for the herbicide to break down safely. After seeding, once the seedlings emerge, both soil and foliar treatments can be used. A protective layer is formed in the soil, which helps kill any existing weeds. The effectiveness of herbicides varies depending on the growth stage of the lawn. For lawns propagated through vegetation, herbicides can be applied before planting or during the early growth stages. However, long-term residual herbicides used before planting can affect seedling emergence. From the time of sowing until the four-leaf stage, only safe herbicides should be used. Once the lawn reaches the five-leaf stage, a wider range of herbicides becomes available for use.
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