Darrell Blackwelder: Winter Broadleaf Weeds Best Controlled Early

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Darrell Blackwelder, the retired horticulture agent and director with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service in Rowan County, advises that February and early March are the best times to control broadleaf weeds like chickweed and henbit in cool-season fescue lawns. He recommends using herbicide blends containing 2,4-D and dicamba for early-stage weed control, noting that mature weeds nearing bloom stage are much harder to eliminate.

Why it matters

Controlling winter broadleaf weeds early is crucial for maintaining healthy fescue lawns, as these weeds can quickly spread and outcompete the desired grass if left unchecked. Blackwelder's expertise provides valuable guidance to homeowners on the optimal timing and products for effective weed management.

The details

Blackwelder explains that the unusually warm weather this winter has allowed winter broadleaf weeds to get an early start in many lawns. He advises applying post-emergence herbicides like Trimec or Weed-B-Gon, which contain 2,4-D and dicamba, when the weeds are still small and actively growing. Mature weeds approaching bloom stage are much harder to control. A second or third application may be necessary for complete elimination. Blackwelder also recommends applying crabgrass preventers as soon as possible, as rising soil temperatures will soon trigger crabgrass germination.

• February and early March are the best times to control broadleaf weeds in cool-season fescue lawns.