Winter can be a confusing time for gardeners because gardens go into their most dormant states. Therefore, it’s not the best time to undertake any serious planting. However, winter is perfect for weed control and preparation for a weed-free spring. If your goal is abundant and rich spring growth, start the weed-control process in winter. There isn’t much planting to do during the winter months, but gardeners shouldn’t forget about their gardens during winter. Here’s how controlling winter weeds can prepare you for the best weed-free spring during winter.
Controlling Winter Weeds: What to Know
Why Winter is Best
Gardens already hit their growth spurt during the spring. Any weeds that have made their way into the soil will sprout and grow with access to enough water. Weeds can choke out healthy growth and might overwhelm an otherwise healthy gardenscape.
Gardener should not wait until spring to address their potential weed problems. Prepare soil and plants during winter; there’s less to worry about during spring.
This leaves more time for the essential things gardeners want to focus on, like actual gardening and planting!
Adjusting and Adapting the Soil
Winter is the ideal time to adapt the soil and ensure no undesirable roots are left. Turn and sort soil with a specific focus on removing weeds. Remove the plant at its roots to ensure you de-weed correctly.
Anywhere weeds have snapped off, leaving their root system intact, you’re leaving more potential room for returning weed growth. Don’t do it!
Prepared soil is only possible in spring if you’ve started doing it during winter. Use the colder months to monitor what the soil is doing. Plan for how you’ll reintroduce nutrients without sparking potential weed growth.
Remove Falling Leaves and Debris
Falling leaves and other debris should be removed before the spring starts. While many gardeners think leaving the leaves will enrich the soil, it complicates healthy growth. Decay is one way to sprout a lot of weeds instead of plants.
Plant cuttings can hide many weeds and undesired plants. When leaving this out on the lawn, you’re reintroducing this right back into the growth cycle.
Ensure debris is disposed of or destroyed appropriately.
Proper De-Weeding for Winter
Winter can be used to remove any undesired weeds and trees. However, you must remove the whole root system. Hand-pulling weeds is a practical, chemical-free way to remove the entire root of a weed. Winter is an excellent time for this process because the colder soil conditions make it easier.
Common winter weeds not handled correctly will sprout again when temperatures rise.
Pay special attention to your de-weeding technique if you have a constant problem with recurring weeds. Ensure nothing gets left behind.
For best results, remove weeds before cutting away grass—or prepare for more de-weeding!
Disposing of Weeds and Cuttings
Gardeners unknowingly play into the evil cycle of weed growth when disposing of cuttings too close to their garden. Weeds can spread back into the garden by:
- Insects
- Birds
- Mammals
- Wind
Dispose of any weeds responsibly, and destroy the remains to prevent future issues. This might require calling in third-party garden disposal (or dumpster rental) services.
Environmentally Responsible Pesticides
Don’t reach straight for the industrial weed killer. Seek out environmentally responsible options that have no negative impact on the rest of your garden. Hand-pulling weeds is one way to protect the surrounding ecosystem.
Traditional weed killers are poison. These days, most gardeners and professional landscapers prefer environmentally responsible answers. They’re just as good (if not better) at controlling any potential weed issues.
Apply a safe pre-emergent herbicide to target roots and weed seeds. A winter annual germinates in the fall and survives the winter. These lawn weeds can take over if left unmanaged. Common broadleaf weeds include:
- Common chickweed
- Annual bluegrass (Poa Annua)
- Downy brome
- Field pennycress
- Wild mustard
You’re less likely to deal with sprouting weeds in early spring. A post-emergent herbicide application will kill weeds if they appear.
Know Your Plants
Many weeds resemble plants and herbs that are easily mistaken for weeds because they look almost identical. Don’t assume that you know the characteristics of a particular plant until you’ve checked.
Always research plants you intend on removing, even if you’re about 99% sure they shouldn’t be there. Some plants can be toxic to people or pets so correctly identifying them is essential before handling them.
Smart gardeners always know their plants. This will give you insight and knowledge about controlling weeds this winter and the correct method to remove them.
JPO Lawn & Snow – Snow Removal Services in Omaha, NE
If you’re planning to aerate your lawn or need professional advice on how to maintain it, give us a call. We are a full-service provider of residential and commercial lawn care, landscaping, and snow removal services in Omaha, NE. Our mission is to provide exceptional service that exceeds our clients’ expectations and leaves them with a beautiful, well-maintained property year-round. We take pride in our work and strive to exceed our client’s expectations every time.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us show you why we are the best choice for all your lawn and snow needs.
