Which Weed Killer Should You Use?

Nearly everyone who owns a house and has a yard wants a lush green lawn that's the envy of the neighborhood. There are of course those few out there who don't care much about their yard but for those of us who want that nice yard finding a weed killer that works is a definite must. Weeds are unsightly, attract pests and some of them can be downright harmful to our families and pets. A weed killer will solve most weed problems if you choose the right product for the application you need.

When it comes to selecting a weed killer for you lawn there are some general guidelines you should follow. There are several different types of weed killers on the market today and the type you by will depend on the type of weeds you have. If you have a general population of weeds then a broad spectrum weed killer will do the job. These weed killers have the ability to kill a wide range of weeds.

If your lawn is overrun by a more specific type of weed such as dandelions or crabgrass it may bet better to get a weed killer that is specifically made to kill those types of weeds. A broad spectrum weed killer will work but it may not work as well as an herbicide manufactured for that particular weed type.

You also need to be aware that some weed killers may cause damage to your yard if you don't follow the directions carefully. Weed killer is after all poison and if you put too much of it down it will kill your grass.

It is also important to know when to apply a weed killer. Using a pre-emergent in the middle of summer will do little good after all the weeds have already started growing. By following the directions you will get the best results when it comes to killing weeds.

Also be sure to read all the warning labels before you use a weed killer. But you must read the package label very carefully. Don't waste time and money, and possibly killing the wrong plants by not following the instructions. Herbicides are chemicals that can harm the environment when not used properly. So take your time to understand what your lawn needs, then determine which type of herbicide works best for your situation.

Weed control may be the organic gardeners biggest challenge. However, maintaining favorable soil and growing conditions for herbs and vegetables while keeping weeds to a minimum without the use of potentially harmful commercial pesticides is possible.

Organic weed control may be more labor intensive than using commercial weed deterrents, but the resulting pesticide-free harvest is worth the effort. Knowing organic produce is ready to eat from the vine is reward enough for the extra work.

Weed control begins long before seeds are planted or seedlings have sprouted. Placing a weed barrier over the garden soil in the fall is an ideal method of preventing weeds from sprouting and taking over the garden during the winter.

Newspapers covered with straw make a perfect weed barrier. Not only does this method inhibit weeds during the winter, it prevents erosion and provides nourishment for the soil when the decaying paper and straw are worked into the soil in the spring.