The 3 Most Common Weeds – Learn to Identify These Weeds So You Can Get Rid of Them for Good

SUMMARY

You may be tending to your plants and then suddenly notice unusual plant growth. When you look a little bit closer you start to notice that this new plant is, in fact, a weed! While weeds are just like any other plants, just minding their own business trying to grow, they deprive your other plants of much needed nutrients. They may even endanger young saplings by blocking them from the essential sunlight they need to photosynthesize. The weeds have to go, but how do you eliminate them? Weeds are known for being extremely tough and stubborn. However, the first step to defeating your enemy is to learn about them so you can exploit their weaknesses. So, in this helpful guide, we will help you learn to identify the top 3 most common weeds and how to get rid of them. Read on to learn more!

The Most Fertile of the Common Weeds

What Are Dandelions?

Dandelions (Taraxacum officinale) are common perennial weeds in lawns and gardens. They have long leaves that form a rosette at the base and bright yellow flowers on hollow stalks, which can reach 6 to 18 inches tall. These flowers bloom from early spring to late fall and turn into fluffy seed heads, known as “dandelion clocks,” that disperse seeds with the wind. You may be familiar with dandelion clocks since many people will ‘make a wish’ and blow on the seeds to disperse them. Dandelions also have thick taproots that can grow up to 2 feet deep! This allows them to thrive in many different climates. They prefer sunny, moist spots but are adaptable and resilient, which makes them widespread in many areas.

How Do You Get Rid of Them?

To get rid of dandelions, you have a few options. Good old hand-pulling is an effective option, especially when the soil is moist. Just make sure to remove the entire taproot to prevent regrowth. You can also use herbicides like selective broadleaf herbicides that target dandelions without harming grass, or non-selective options that work for spot treatments. It’s best to apply these when dandelions are young and vulnerable. Consider using a vinegar and dish soap mixture or use flame weeding for areas like sidewalks if you want a chemical-free approach. By checking your lawn regularly and removing new dandelions, you can most of the weed growth at bay.

The Most Drought Tolerant of the Common Weeds

What is Crabgrass?

Crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis) is a common annual weed that often invades lawns and gardens. It’s easily recognizable due to its coarse, green leaves and sprawling growth pattern, which resembles fingers reaching out from a central point. The leaves are wide and flat, and the plant can grow in dense patches, typically forming star-shaped clusters. Crabgrass produces seed heads that look like little forks, which resemble crab claws. This weed thrives in hot, dry conditions and can quickly outcompete desirable grasses, making it a persistent nuisance in many yards.

How Do You Get Rid of It?

You can try several methods to eliminate crabgrass (a very common weed in Iowa). Hand-pulling works well for small patches; remove the entire root. Apply pre-emergent herbicides in early spring for larger infestations to prevent seeds from germinating. If crabgrass has already sprouted, use post-emergent herbicides designed for it. For a natural approach, you can use boiling water or a mixture of vinegar and dish soap to kill the weeds on contact. Regular lawn care, like maintaining healthy grass and filling bare spots, can also help keep crabgrass at bay.

The Most Adaptable Out of the Common Weeds

What is Chickweed?

Chickweed (Stellaria media) is a common weed found in Iowa, especially in gardens and lawns. It grows up to 12 inches tall with sprawling stems and small, oval, bright green leaves that are smooth and arranged oppositely. Chickweed can produce tiny white flowers with five petals, often in clusters. This hardy annual thrives in moist, nutrient-rich soils and can quickly spread their seeds, forming dense mats that outcompete other plants. While often seen as a nuisance, chickweed is edible and can be used in salads or livestock fodder.

How Do You Destroy It?

To destroy chickweed you can use several methods. Hand-pulling works well, just like for crabgrass and dandelions. However, for larger areas, apply post-emergent herbicides that specifically target chickweed. If you’re looking for a natural option, vinegar, and dish soap can kill the chickweed quickly. Maintaining a healthy lawn through regular mowing and proper watering can also help prevent chickweed from taking over. Additionally, pre-emergent herbicides in early spring can prevent new seeds from germinating.

Conclusion

While we have not created a comprehensive list of weed species and how to deal with them specifically, you can still apply the knowledge you’ve learned about dealing with these top 3 common weeds to your repertoire. Weeds generally follow the same pattern when germinating and spreading quickly. Hopefully, this article will help you when you prepare to eliminate your weeding problem.

However, if your schedule is too busy or the weed problem is too big, we’ll be able to lend a hand BEFORE the weeds get out of hand! At Mastergrass, we consider ourselves masters of weed control. We use top-of-the-line products and techniques that target invasive plants while safeguarding your lawn’s integrity and not disrupting Iowa’s natural ecosystem. Want to learn more about our methods and products? You can call us at (515) 236-5168 or contact us today. Regarding weed control, it is our top priority to put your and your needs first!