Managing Weeds in Landscapes, Gardens, and Lawns

Every garden has weeds and dealing with these unwanted plants is an ongoing task in any landscape. Control of weeds is important. Weeds are strong competitors for available water, nutrients, and sunlight. Reduced air circulation created by tall weeds encourages the development and spread of foliage diseases and a weedy garden often has more insect problems. While a completely weed-free garden is not attainable, reducing weeds is beneficial.

Weed management requires persistence throughout the entire growing season removing weeds when they appear and preventing them from getting large, flowering, or setting seed.

Management Techniques | Management of Weeds Types | Management by Garden Area | Management of Specific Species | More Information

Weed Management Techniques

There are many different techniques for weed management and effective control often comes from using a combination of different techniques.

Managing Specific Types of Weeds

Weeds can be divided into several major groups. Some species can be classified in one or more of these groups, and others cannot be classified in any of these groups. Understanding how the weed is classified will help with control as the management of weeds in each group looks similar.

What Type of Weed Is It?

Perennial Broadleaf Weeds Photo by Aaron Steil

Perennial Grassy Weeds Photo by Aaron Steil

Managing Weeds in Specific Garden Areas

Weed management in different areas of the landscape has different considerations. What works well in a lawn is not necessarily good for a vegetable garden or perennial border.