Anyone have some suggestions about what to do about the weeds growing in my front and back lawn? I'm looking for a chem free way of getting rid of them. They're taking over, and the yard service doesn't seem to be doing anything about it.

YOU ARE SO RIGHT ABOUT THE WEED!

Kell and all:

Circle C Landscape is working through each yard and doing an evaluation on the weeds. The organic approach to weed treatment is hand pulling or using a 20% vinegar solution, however at this time of year, that will kill the grass as well.

We have several types of weeds right now. The very green grassy weeds are winter weeds which will die out in the next few weeks. More problematic are perennial weeds, both broadleaf and dandelions.

We are mowing short to get rid of the winter residue grass. We will then be fertilizing, which will help the bermuda choke out the weeks. I may recommend to the Park West HOA that we use one chemical weed treatment for everyone who wants it. Would this be something you would favor? Thank you, Susan

By Circle C Landscape

Pullin' Weeds is fun

Pulling up weeds is good exersize and I enjoy going after them myself. It's not bad enough for chemicals, in my opinion.

Bermuda grass is pretty good about choking out most weeds, as long as it's growing well. I regret that so many houses have Bermuda in the side yards (like mine) where there isn't enough sun shine. I had much better luck with the Zoyzia (sp?) that I had put in the backyard. I'll be replacing the Bermuda with more of it, once I'm sure the Bermuda isn't going to thrive.

I recommend a long handled weed stick for about $5. You don't have to bend over to cut the weed off below the dirt level and inflict minimum damage to the lawn. Pulling up weeds and unwanted grasses can do a lot of damage to a nice lawn and it dislodges more dirt that you really need to.

I'm not in favor of chemicals unitl there is no other effective means, since the stuff goes right into the water table, which is only 50 down. You know, the limestone doesn't filter or neutralize most of the chemicals we use.

Weeds II

Well, come on over and pull some weeds, Russ. You're right about the zoysia, it controls the weeds better than the Bermuda grass (especially where the Bermuda doesn't get enough light). I'd prefer not to use chemicals, I've got a dog that spends lots of time in the yard, and I'd rather pull them (or pay someone to pull them).