Lawn weeds
There is nothing more pleasurable than a well kept lawn - especially one that is free from weeds. Unfortunately, nature is such that it is a constant battle to eradicate weeds from your lawn.
No matter how carefully you prepare and lay your lawn, there will always be weed seeds in the soil. They get deposited on the lawn by birds (either carried on the outside of their beaks or in their droppings), by the wind from surrounding areas, and through being carried on the bottom of our shoes.
There are many different weeds in the garden, but only a few are a common problem for the lawn. Early treatment is a good idea to avoid them getting a grip and infesting the whole lawn.
Controlling weeds:
If you have only a small number of weeds in your lawn, weed by hand using a hand-fork, knife or a tool known as a daisy grubber. Take care to remove all the roots if possible as, surprisingly enough, a piece of root broken off and left in the ground can grow again remarkably quickly. Thistles and dandelions are very deep-rooted and it can be particularly difficult to remove all of their roots.
The removal of weeds by selective weedkiller is by far the most effective way. These, as the name suggests, will kill certain things and not others. In some cases certain weeds will require a second application about 6 to 7 weeks after the first treatment. Apply the weedkiller during the growing season ie.spring, summer and autumn, before the weather turns cold. DO NOT APPLY IN DROUGHT CONDITIONS.
Initially after treatment the weeds may appear to grow quickly, but will soon wither, twist and die. Selective weedkiller does not kill the grass.
Once you have treated the lawn, wait for three days before mowing. Do not use cuttings as a mulch on flower beds, or compost any grass cuttings for at least six to eight months.
Lawn sand consists of sulphate of ammonia and sulphate of iron. These are mixed with fine sand and have a burning or corrosive effect on weeds with broad leaves, leaving the thin leaves of the grass alone. Keep a watch on the effect since, with some weeds, lawn sand will only check their growth and a second application may therefore be needed 6 to 7 weeks later.
Note:
Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and do not overdose the area. Remember to wear rubber gloves, and never smoke, eat or drink when handling chemicals. Wash all equipment thoroughly after use. You should also guard against breathing the spray by wearing a suitable mask.