The optimum time to prune is before growth begins in the spring. There were a lot of weeds in the garden and lawn this year. There is the old-fashioned method pulling them out. Hand-pulling, hoeing, or digging are effective. Try to pull weeds before they germinate and spread.
Prevention helps, too.
Mulch keeps weeds under control. If you had a serious problem in the garden, solarizing the soil is a good idea. Also, keeping your lawn healthy and vigorous will discourage weed growth there. I have started a compost pile, but it s really starting to smell. You probably are not allowing it to get enough air so that the bacteria can function.