Download a free copy of the Adobe Acrobat Reader. However, most homeowners are too narrow in their approach to controlling weeds. Although herbicides are an important tool for controlling weeds, they are only a part of a total weed control program. The best defense against weeds is a dense, healthy, vigorous lawn, which can only be obtained through proper fertilizing, watering, and mowing. While this publication discusses both cultural and chemical control of weeds, emphasis is given to chemical control.
Weeds are opportunists, taking advantage of open spaces in thin, weak stands of turf.
Although improper fertilizing, watering, and mowing are the most common causes of poor lawns, insects and diseases can also expose the lawn to weed invasion. Always try to determine why weeds invaded the lawn and correct the problem. If the basic cause is not corrected, weeds will return even though existing weeds may be eradicated with herbicides. This publication outlines the basic concepts of weed control and provides a guide to the safe, effective use of herbicides for controlling lawn weeds. It does not contain complete information on each product.