Weeding

• Remember this about weed control — weeds are opportunists. They only grow where they are allowed to grow. That's why the best way to keep weeds out of a lawn is to do everything you can to promote a dense, healthy turf. This means following proper mowing, watering and fertilizing techniques.

• Remembering the basics

  Mowing too short or infrequently can promote weed growth by opening the turf canopy to extra sunlight. Here's a mowing basic: follow the one-third rule. In other words, never cut more than a third of the leaf blade with any single mowing.

  Mowing too closely, or scalping the turf, opens the turf canopy and makes it harder for the grass to compete with weeds.

  Improper watering and fertilization also invites weeds. Too much or too little of these essentials can stress the turf, resulting in open areas for weeds to take hold.

  It's best to control weeds when they are young. That's because older, tougher weeds are often immune to any chemical control.

  Because spring weather conditions can be unpredictable, it's best to rely on biological signs rather than the calendar to determine when to apply herbicides.

• Weed-free, chemical-free?

  Is it possible to have a weed-free lawn without herbicides?

  Yes, but not without some work.

  You'll need to do some thorough hand pulling to get rid of existing weeds. Then, you'll have to stay on top of weed growth with good lawn care practices (one-third mowing rule, regular watering, etc.) to keep them out.