Weeds pose a significant challenge in maintaining a healthy lawn, especially in Columbus, OH, where five common varieties, clover, henbit, dandelion, spotted spurge, and crabgrass, can quickly detract from its lush green appearance. Each of these weeds has different characteristics, so it's important to know what they look like, how they spread, and when they grow so that you can watch out for them on your lawn. The best way to manage their presence is through weed control treatments.

Clover is a perennial weed known for its tri-foliate leaves.

Clover is a perennial weed commonly found in Columbus, OH.

Clover is a prevalent perennial weed on lawns in Columbus, OH. It forms dense patches and thrives in under-nourished lawns, where it can outcompete the grass. Identifying clover is easy due to its distinctive appearance, characterized by three rounded leaflets on a stem. When in bloom, clover sports small, white flower heads. These weeds are most visible in the spring, summer, and fall, with peak growth occurring in late spring and early summer under full sunlight. Because clover is a perennial weed, the best method of preventing and removing it is with pre-emergent and post-emergent weed control treatments.

Henbit is a winter annual that grows low to the ground and is difficult to control.

Henbit is a winter annual weed with green-to-purple, slightly hairy stems, and rounded or heart-shaped leaves. These low-growing plants sprawl horizontally from shallow taproots and are typically found on thin, shaded lawns with poor drainage. Henbit thrives in cool, moist environments, making it particularly common during the winter months, but it's also capable of growth in springtime. To prevent further colonization, it's best to remove henbit before it flowers and sets seed through weed control treatments.

Dandelions boast bright, yellow flowers and spread quickly.

Dandelion weeds on a lawn in Columbus, OH, with yellow flowers.

Dandelions are widely recognized for their bright, yellow flowers, making them one of the most common weeds in Columbus, OH. These perennials are incredibly resilient and can thrive in various soil conditions, growing almost anywhere. They emerge in early spring and are notoriously difficult to eliminate due to their tough nature and quick spreading through taproots and seeds. Pre- and post-emergent weed control treatments can effectively prevent these resistant weeds from spoiling the look of your lush lawn.

Spotted spurge is a summer annual lawn weed that is common in Columbus, OH.

Spotted spurge is a low-growing weed common in Columbus, OH, and characterized by its dark green leaves that grow in pairs. These leaves are typically marked with a red spot along the center of the vein, with pinkish stems. The plant can produce pinkish flowers, and its broken stems exude a milky sap that is toxic to animals. Spotted spurge is a summer annual, and a single plant can produce thousands of seeds. These seeds can germinate immediately in the following spring or lie dormant in the soil for years. This weed thrives in poor, compacted soil and generally in full sun, often going unnoticed until late summer due to its slow development. Spotted spurge tends to be a problem in thin lawns, so maintaining a thick, healthy lawn and utilizing weed control treatments is the best way to manage this weed's growth.

Pairing weed control treatments with fertilization will ensure your lawn stays weed-free and healthy with vital nutrients!

Crabgrass is a tenacious weed for lawns in Columbus, OH.

Crabgrass on a poor lawn in Columbus, OH.

Crabgrass stands out as one of the most persistent and troublesome weeds on lawns in Columbus, OH. Its rapid growth, characterized by its yellowish-green leaves and coarse texture, starkly contrasts with the fine, dark green grasses around it. There are two main types of crabgrass to be aware of - large crabgrass and smooth crabgrass. Large crabgrass is distinguished by its dense, hairy leaves, while smooth crabgrass lacks hair on its leaves. This summer annual thrives in hot, moist conditions, germinating during the summer months. Its resilience lies in its rapid reproductive cycles and ability to adapt to different mowing heights. A single plant can produce an astounding 150,000 seeds, ensuring its widespread presence in lawns. To effectively prevent crabgrass growth, it's crucial to implement weed control treatments that target both the existing plants and prevent new ones.

Call us today to get started with our weed control program!

If you're in Columbus, Westerville, Lewis Center, OH, or nearby regions and struggling to control pesky weeds, incorporating a weed control program is crucial. At Lawn Control Center, our team provides pre- and post-emergent weed control treatments throughout the growing season. These treatments are designed to effectively prevent and eliminate invasive weeds like clover, henbit, dandelion, spotted spurge, crabgrass, and more from your lawn. Additionally, our service includes lawn fertilization treatments to ensure your lawn remains healthy throughout the growing season.

If you're ready to stop the spread and experience a healthy, weed-free lawn, give us a call today at (888) 421-0601 to sign up for our weed control service.