Organic lawn care: How to get rid of weeds in grass

Every homeowner with a lawn will someday wonder how to get rid of weeds in grass. Among the many trials of lawn maintenance, weed removal and control is likely the most universal. While a healthy lawn is the best defense against weeds appearing in the first place, knowing methods for dealing with them is crucial.

Digging weeds

While definitely the most laborious method, physically removing lawn weeds is the most effective way to keep them away. Using the right gardening tools and techniques, you can target and kill weeds in specific areas of your lawn.

Always pull weeds from the roots using a tool such as a sickle blade. Perennial weeds are more easily removed early in the spring before they’ve had a chance to build strong root systems.

Organic herbicides

Organic herbicides are an excellent option to kill weeds permanently. However, many herbicides can also kill your lawn grass, so make sure to read instructions carefully and apply only as needed.

Corn gluten is one organic herbicide that can prevent specific types of weeds from growing roots. Acetic acid and horticultural white vinegar also make exceptional weed killer, but will only affect the weeds above the surface.

DIY Weed killers

For a simple homemade weed killer, try boiling water. Once heated to at least 200 degrees Fahrenheit, water can kill existing weeds and prevent new weeds from growing. This is a particularly good option for treating cracks and edges of sidewalks, driveways and pathways.

Plain dish soap, apple cider vinegar and Epsom salt also work as DIY weed killers when mixed with water. If you have a recurring weed problem, these methods can be helpful for saving time and keeping your costs down in between other larger treatments.

Weed control is part of proper lawn care. You can control weeds with frequent lawn care, monitoring weed growth and removing lawn weeds with these organic and less caustic options. If you happen to have particularly irritating and resistant weeds, try a lawn care professional for a healthy lawn who may have more tools to control more stubborn weeds.