Binghamton Agway Farm & Home Store
145 Broad Avenue Binghamton, NY 13904
(607) 723-7409
bafeedback@binghamtonagway.com
 

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Sat 8am - 6pm
Sun 8am - 5pm
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A dense, healthy turf grass is the best defense against weeds. When a lawn is vigorous, there is little room for weeds to grow. However, when weeds become a problem in your lawn here are some tips on how to control them.

Types of Weeds

In Northeast lawns, dandelions, plantain, spurge, chickweed, Henbit, ground ivy, knotweed and purslane rank among the worst broadleaf weeds. They seem to have an ability to survive even the toughest growing conditions.

Chemical Practices

 In some cases, chemical control is the only effective method for eradicating weeds. Follow these guidelines for good lawn management:

1. Identify the weed(s) in question.
2. Determine the best herbicide (chemical which kills or reduces plant growth) that will effectively control the weed(s). For helpful information, bring weed samples to your local Agway lawn expert.
3. Follow application instructions carefully.

How To Control Broadleaf Weeds

 Dry Formulations: If you prefer a granular herbicide, use Agway Greenlawn Weed Control and Lawn Fertilizer when broadleaf weeds are young and tender in spring or fall. When using dry formulations, follow these general practices:

1.  Apply weed control when broadleaf weeds are actively growing and temperatures are between 50-70 degrees F.
2. Apply when weeds are moist. This is important for dry formulations so that the granules cling to the weeds and produce the best possible control.
3. Time the application when the chance of rain is not forecasted for 24 to 48 hours. If rain-washes the dry formulation off the weeds, control will be decreased.

Liquid Weed Controls: To selectively control invasive broadleaf lawn weeds, apply Agway Liquid Lawn Weed Killer or Triamine II Lawn Weed Killer when weeds are young and tender in spring, early summer or early fall. For difficult to control weeds like ground ivy, spurge and henbit, use Agway Broadleaf Weed and Ivy Control.

 Always designate a sprayer just for herbicides and label it clearly so it is never used to spray insecticides or fungicides. In weedy lawn areas that require reseeding in spring or fall apply Roundup or Spectracide Grass and Weed Killer to kill both weeds and weakened turfgrass. After 24 hours, vegetation will turn brown. Then prepare ground for seeding. (Unlike other herbicides mentioned, Spectracide and Roundup will not hinder seed germination.)

How To Control Crabgrass

Crabgrass is a different type of weed and requires treatment with pre-emergent controls. Consult with your Agway lawn care expert for appropriate products and application time for your area.

Cultural Practices

 Maintaining a healthy lawn is the best way to control weeds.

1. Seeding – select a variety of grass that is well suited to your growing conditions.
2. Mowing – most grasses in our area should be mowed to a height of 1 ½ to 2 ½”. A good rule of thumb is to mow when the lawn gets to be 1/3 taller than its recommended mowing height.
3. Soil pH – maintain soil pH at 6.4. If pH is below 6.4, add lime.
4. Fertilize – maintain adequate nutrient levels by applying lawn fertilizers. Agway has an extensive selection, including our convenient Agway 4-Pack complete lawn care program.
5. Watering – water lawn when necessary, but avoid excessive irrigation. Early morning is the best time to water.

 Don’t Let Weeds Win

Manage your lawn well season by season. Remember to use weed killers only when necessary and always follow application directions carefully.