Summer in the south means a lot of things, but to landscapers and homeowners, it can equate to some tough summer weeds. Treating these summer invaders may seem like a never-ending task, but it is key in keeping your own yard and garden from becoming smothered and choked.
Be prepared for the tough summer weeds that threaten your plants and greenspaces:
Southeastern weeds are common.
Weeds can be an issue in the southeastern states and it is important to know that they pose a potential health hazard, causing respiratory illness in extreme cases, if left unaddressed. Furthermore, weeds can smother and kill your plants, gardens, and trees, over time, which makes it costly to resolve later.
Summer weeds are tougher than ever before.
Weeds in the southeast are tougher than ever. Over time, some weed species have become drought and high-temperature tolerant, which makes them something to look out for in this region.
Some tough summer weeds in southeastern US landscapes and greenspaces are:
- Lespedeza
- Chamber Bitter
- Dollar Weed
- Spurge, often Spotted or Prostrate variety
Prevention is easier and less-expensive than attempting to resolve a landscape or greenspace that is over-run with these intrusive species. Take time to treat and prepare your property for the summertime weed species that are prevalent in this region; talk to a landscape expert for service and estimates.
Try some herbicides.
In most instances, herbicides will treat and rid your property of weeds with little effort or maintenance. Typically, a solution is applied to the space that will kill existing weeds while preventing future growth with reapplication. Be aware of what you are putting on your lawn or garden, however, as many herbicides contain toxic chemicals that could harm pets or people nearby. Talk to a landscape professional to learn more about your options.
Don’t till or disturb the earth.
If you leave your earth and turf untilled, weeds won’t grow. When you disturb the soil, you basically are aerating it, which promotes growth of plants, grass, and, yes, weeds. A good rule of thumb to implement is to only till and move the soil that you are planting in; leave the rest alone.
Cover them up.
Deprive weeds of sunlight and they will die. An easy way to do this is to use mulch and fabric to cover up soil and earth around your plants, trees, or flowers. Talk to home and garden retailers about different mulch varieties that will fit in your landscape cohesively.
The climate in the Carolinas is conducive to foliage and flora- including weeds! Prevent weeds from taking over by adopting a proactive approach that involves one or more of these tactics and tips.
Invest in the services of a Local Garden & Landscape Design Center in Charleston, to help you get rid of tough summer weeds without compromising the health and hardiness of your gardens, plants, and grass. Talk to the experts at Terra Bella Garden Center, for more information or to schedule a consultation.