Spring is the season when your lawn wakes up from its winter nap and unfortunately, so do the weeds. Just when you’re dreaming of a lush, green yard, dandelions, crabgrass, and clover try to hijack the show. But don’t worry! Getting weeds under control in spring is absolutely doable with the right strategy and a little consistency.

At Hernandez Lawn Care, we’ve assisted many homeowners battle spring invaders and take back their lawns. Whether you’re a DIY yard warrior or in need of professional lawn care services Chicago IL, this guide is full of tips to assist you in keeping those annoying weeds at bay and providing your grass with space to grow.

Why Spring Weed Control Matters So Much

You know the saying nip it in the bud? That’s precisely what spring weed control is all about. Weeds are opportunistic. When your lawn is patchy or weak after winter, they move in and begin to take over.

Spring is the ideal time to get a handle on things for a few reasons:

• Weeds are just beginning to emerge and are easier to kill
• Stopping weeds now equals fewer problems in summer and fall
• You allow your grass to get stronger and thicker

By being proactive, you’ll save yourself a lot of time and aggravation in the future.

Types of Common Spring Weeds

Before you begin pulling or spraying, it’s helpful to know your enemy. Here are some of the most common spring weeds you may find sprouting up in your lawn:

Dandelions

Those bright yellow flowers might look pretty, but they reproduce quickly and dig in deep with their taproot.

Crabgrass

Low and wide-spreading annual grassy weed that will choke your turf if left untreated.

Clover

Some homeowners find the appearance of clover acceptable, but it steals nutrients from grass and can take over your lawn.

Chickweed

Tender and green, chickweed appears in clusters and commonly in shady, damp areas.

Plantain

These prostrate, broad-leaved weeds are resistant to being pulled and prefer soil compaction.

All of these weeds are slightly different, but fortunately, there are some general strategies that work magic.

Step-by-Step Spring Weed Control Strategy

Want to get started? Here’s a basic, effective method for controlling weeds during the spring:

Step 1: Begin with a Clean-Up

Start by raking up any remaining leaves, trash, and dead winter grass. That opens the ground for sunlight, air, and nutrients to come in and give your grass an easy boost and makes it easier to spot where weeds are creeping in.

Step 2: Pinpoint and Treatment of Current Weeds

Already seeing dandelions or other troublemakers? Use a selective post-emergent herbicide or hand-pull them carefully, making sure to get the roots. Spot-treating is less harmful to your lawn than blanketing the whole yard unnecessarily.

Pro tip: Pull weeds after a rainstorm or watering session. The soil is softer and roots come out easier.

Step 3: Apply Pre-Emergent Herbicide

This is your weed-fighting secret weapon. A pre-emergent herbicide prevents weed seeds from sprouting. Timing is critical, spray it when soil temperatures hit around 55°F for a few consecutive days (most often mid to late March or early April in Chicago).

Make sure to water it in to activate it and avoid seeding new grass right after, as it will block that too.

Step 4: Mow High, Not Low

Cutting your grass too short may seem like a good idea to keep things tidy, but it actually stresses your turf and gives weeds a leg up. Set your mower to 3 to 4 inches to shade the soil, prevent weed seeds from getting sunlight, and encourage deeper roots.

Step 5: Feed Your Lawn

Thick, healthy grass is the ultimate natural weed-control method. A spring fertilizer provides your lawn with the nutrients necessary to green up and grow strong. Use a slow-release spring fertilizer and follow the label directions.

Organic and Natural Weed Control Options

Want to go chemical-free? There are some natural options that can get the job done as well:

• Corn gluten meal as a natural pre-emergent
• Boiling water or vinegar (be cautious, these can kill grass as well)
• Mulching with natural materials to suppress weed growth in garden beds
• Hand pulling regularly before weeds seed

Natural options take a little more elbow grease, but they’re perfect for green-minded homeowners or families with pets and children.

When to Call the Pros

Occasionally, no matter how diligent you are, weeds appear to triumph. If your lawn is taken over or you just don’t have time to tackle it, hiring a professional can be a lifesaver.

At Hernandez Lawn Care, we provide top-of-the-line lawn care services Chicago IL ranging from fertilization and weed control to aeration and overseeding. We tailor each lawn plan to meet your specific yard’s requirements, making sure your grass receives the attention it requires.

Final Thoughts

Managing spring weeds is a matter of timing, technique, and a bit of perseverance. The best news? You don’t have to fight alone. If you approach it the right way, your lawn can go from weed-filled to perfectly green in a snap.

Get started early, maintain consistency, and don’t hesitate to call for help when you need it. A weed-free lawn is in sight and when you achieve it, you will be asking yourself how you ever managed to do without it.