Lawn Problem: Weeds and Moss |
Controlling Weeds and
Moss
The official definition of a
weed is a plant growing in the wrong place! We are all
familiar with common weeds such as the dandelion,
buttercup, daisy, and clover, or common grass weeds such
as Yorkshire fog, but where do they come from? Weeds can
be wind borne, bird borne, even boot-borne and found in
lawn clippings or as invasions from surrounding areas.
What we all know is that they shade out fine grass,
compete with the lawn for nutrients and spoil its
appearance. When it comes to weeds - prevention is
better than cure and the advice later in this guide will
minimize the onset of weeds. However, if weeds do occur
there are mechanical and chemical methods of controlling
them.
- Good old hand weeding for the occasional plant or
two is only practical for small areas and raking and
slashing through them with a knife can limit growth.
- For widespread control, the right chemical
weedkiller will ensure success although it is vital
that you match a specific weedkilling product for the
particular task - if in doubt ask for advice at the
garden centre.
- Moss is a real tell-tale plant - telling you that
there is a problem on your lawn!
- The main reason for moss is surface compaction,
with the moss thriving on the layer of moisture unable
to drain away on the surface of the lawn.
- The keys to avoiding a moss invasion on the lawn
are good aeration, drainage and soil fertility, and
avoiding scalping the lawn when mowing.
- To chemically rid your lawn of moss there are moss
killers available in liquid or dry granular form.
- Moss killers must be carefully applied following
product instructions and once the moss has turned
black or brown, then it can be scarified and disposed
of - it makes excellent mulch to smother weeds under
shrubs.
Lawn
mowing
Fertilization
Basic care and
maintenance
Lawn
problems |
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