Perennial weeds with a low, spreading growth habit and extensive root system, such as quackgrass, are vigorous and require removal of the entire root system. Perseverance with these types of weeds eventually pays off, however, as repeated removal of top-growth depletes food reserves in the weed's root system, and the top growth weakens. Although cultural and mechanical weed control can be effective, chemical control may be required in certain circumstances. Careful selection and application of chemicals can effectively control a wide variety of weeds with little risk of injury to the turf or nearby ornamental plants. Herbicides provide an immediate solution to weed problems, but does not provide a long-lasting solution for the problem.
Herbicides treat the symptoms of the problem without correcting the cause.
Therefore, they should only be used after other means of weed control have been tried. The most serious insect pest in Maine is the chinch bug. This insect pest usually shows up in years that are warmer than average and on droughty soils. Sloping areas facing south are prime areas for chinch bug invasions. When chinch bug populations are high, you can see them moving around at the soil surface.