The Most Common Lawn Weeds in Northwest Ohio and How to Control Them

A lush, green lawn is the goal of every homeowner, but weeds can quickly take over if left unchecked. Northwest Ohio's climate and soil conditions create a perfect environment for many common lawn weeds. Understanding what you’re dealing with and how to control these invaders is key to maintaining a healthy lawn. Here are some of the most common lawn weeds in our area and how to manage them effectively.

1. Dandelion

Identification: Bright yellow flowers that turn into fluffy white seed heads; deeply toothed leaves. Control:

• Pull by hand or use a weeding tool, ensuring the entire taproot is removed.

• Apply a post-emergent broadleaf herbicide in early fall or spring.

• Maintain a thick, healthy lawn to reduce space for dandelions to grow.

  
  

2. Crabgrass

Identification: Sprawling, light green grass with wide blades and finger-like seed heads. Control:

• Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring before soil temperatures reach 55°F.

• Mow at the proper height (3-4 inches) to shade out crabgrass seedlings.

• Hand-pull young plants before they go to seed.

  
  

3. Clover

Identification: Small, round, white or pinkish flowers; three-leaf clusters. Control:

• Keep your lawn well-fertilized, as clover thrives in nitrogen-poor soil.

• Spot-treat with a broadleaf herbicide.

• Mow regularly to prevent flowering and seed spread.

  
  

4. Ground Ivy

Identification: Low-growing with rounded, scalloped leaves and purple flowers; spreads aggressively by creeping stems. Control:

• Use selective herbicides containing dicamba or triclopyr.

• Improve lawn drainage and sunlight to discourage its growth.

• Hand-pull small patches, ensuring all roots are removed.

  
  

5. Nutsedge

Identification: Grass-like weed with a triangular stem; grows faster than lawn grass. Control:

• Use a sedge-specific herbicide, as standard weed killers are ineffective.

• Improve lawn drainage to prevent the wet conditions nutsedge thrives in.

• Mow high to shade out young plants.

  
  

6. Chickweed

Identification: Low-growing with small white flowers and delicate, oval leaves. Control:

• Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring.

• Remove by hand, ensuring all roots are extracted.

• Avoid overwatering, as chickweed thrives in moist conditions.

  
  

7. Plantain

Identification: Broad, oval leaves with prominent veins and tall, narrow flower spikes. Control:

• Use a broadleaf herbicide for effective treatment.

• Pull by hand before seed heads develop.

• Keep your lawn healthy and thick to prevent new growth.

  
  

Keeping Your Lawn Weed-Free

The best defense against weeds is a strong, well-maintained lawn. Here are some general tips:

• Mow at the right height: Taller grass shades out weed seeds and prevents germination.

• Fertilize properly: A well-fed lawn is less susceptible to weeds.

• Water deeply and infrequently: This encourages deep root growth, making your lawn more competitive against weeds.

• Aerate and overseed: Reduce compaction and keep your grass thick to crowd out weeds.

  
  

If weeds have taken over your lawn, a combination of cultural practices and targeted treatments can help regain control. At ProGuard Pest Control, we specialize in lawn fertilization and weed control to keep your yard looking its best. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve a weed-free lawn!