Do Weeds Die in the Winter, and Will They Come Back?
Weeds are the bane of gardeners and homeowners, and these invasive plants can ruin an otherwise attractive garden or landscape. Not all weeds are ugly; in fact some of them have colorful flowers that disguise their destructive agenda. Dandelions are possibly the most hated weed since it has a long taproot that is nearly impossible to remove. Even a tiny piece of a dandelion root left in the ground will quickly produce a new plant, so the best defense is a chemical weed killer that targets broadleaf plants.

People who are new to the gardening or lawn care scene often find themselves pondering over whether they should simply wait while freezing temperatures kill their weeds, or if they will come back with warmer weather. The answer to that question depends on whether the weed is an annual or perennial plant.

Whether the plant is a flower or a weed, annuals do not survive winter temperatures below freezing. The problem with annual weeds is that they do produce seeds that will germinate in spring, so those same weeds are now multiplied by the number of seeds they dropped. The best way to deal with this problem is to apply pre-emergent herbicide that will prevent germination. This type of product does not affect seeds that are already sprouted, so it should be spread very early in the spring.

Using a pre-emergent herbicide can greatly reduce a weed problem in the garden, but this method should not be used in a garden where vegetable seeds will be planted later. Since the chemical is effective for about three months, only pre-started seedlings should be planted in a plot treated with this product. A thick layer of mulch or black plastic will also prevent weed seed germination, and this cover can be removed until the vegetable seedlings have emerged. Applying the pre-emergent herbicide after the vegetable seeds have sprouted will prevent any lingering weed seeds from germinating.

Perennial weeds are much more difficult to control since they have underground roots that will send up shoots and begin growing once the ground warms. These weeds are not killed by freezing temperatures and will come back in full force once winter is past. The most effective method of permanently killing these plants is by using a non-selective herbicide that contains glyphosate. This product is sprayed on the leaves of the plant and travels downward to destroy the root system. The only other way to eliminate a perennial weed such as a dandelion is to dig it completely out and make sure no root pieces are missed. This is a very labor-intensive project, but people who want to avoid using chemicals often choose this method.

Beautiful landscapes, flowers and vegetable gardens are the pride and joy of many gardeners, but the beauty can only be accomplished when the weeds are kept at bay. When it comes to eliminating weeds, knowledge and determination are the most effective weapons available.

Myth #1- A Healthy Lawn Needs Lots And Lots Of Mowing

To keep a lawn and be able to keep an eye out for problems, you want to keep that grass nice and short, correct? Actually, a frequently mowed lawn can be one of the worst things for it. Lawns with very short grass can literally get sunburn. The results aren't just dead, dry grass. "Sunburned" lawns are also an invitation for disease and pests to move into them. Short lawns also encourage weed growth. And too extreme a grass cut can weaken the root systems of grass plants, making it difficult for your lawn to retain moisture.

You may be arguing that you don't mow your lawn frequently. You may be right, but have you taken a look at your mower's blade recently? A dull or improperly adjusted one can do just as much damage by ripping up fragile grass or cutting at uneven angles. Keep your blade sharp throughout the mowing season, and never remove more than the top third of the grass plant. How often you should mow is affected by the type of grass, the climate, and how the area is being used. Generally, a good rule of thumb is to mow once every two weeks in the summer months.

Myth #2- Your Lawn Needs Lots And Lots Of Water

All of us need water to survive. However, if you water your lawn too much, there could be a problem. A drowning lawn is one that's going to suffer root problems and invite in other issues, just as a lawn that's too dry. And just as you may not want a big meal at certain times of day, your lawn isn't going to get the most out of a "big gulp" at any time of day. For best results, plan on watering your lawn in the early morning hours. How much you need to water your lawn depends on grass type, soil conditions, and climate. But most lawns need at least an inch of water per week, which translates usually into two or three waterings per week. Never water to the point where you have standing water on the lawn, or see that water is draining to adjacent areas.

Myth #3- It's Just Dirt

The soil that your lawn grows in is quite important to its health and growing success. Most lawns are of the "turf grass" variety. And while these grasses do well in many soils, they do best in ones with a soil pH of 6.0 to 6.5. Soil should be tested before lawns are planted, and treating with sulfur or lime can get those ph levels within the desired range.

Myth #4- Pick (And Plant) A Single Favorite

It is a good idea to have a variety of grass species on your lawn. Studies have shown that by mixing grass types in a lawn, the odds improve for the survival rates of all grass species. So by encouraging a little healthy competition among your grasses, you will increase your chances of having a healthy lawn all year round.