Keep this Spring Weed in check: Meet The Plantain Weed
Effective Ways to Control Plantain Weed in Your Lawn
Spring weeds like plantains are a nuisance to property owners who dream of a perfect lawn in North and South Carolina. While plantain weed is a medicinal herb for digestive issues and topical applications like treating burns and wounds, it can easily turn your attractive lawn into an eyesore site.
Plantains usually thrive in neglected lawns, particularly during spring through autumn. So, if you see them pop up in your yard, then you know it is time for TLC. Whether you are dealing with plantains or any other stubborn weeds, you can turn to experts at RDS Lawn Care to get your lawn back in tip-top shape.
Our landscaping company operates in Charlotte, Mt. Holly, and Belmont, NC areas. But before calling professionals, it is a good idea to know at least the basics. Keep reading to learn more about plantain weed and the recommended preventative measures.
How Do I Identify Plantain Weed?
Broadleaf plantain is by far the most common plantain weed variety you will find in lawns, gardens, meadows, and pastures in North Carolina. Also known as Common Plantain or Plantago major, this type of weed produces oval-shaped medium leaves in low rosettes. The broad-leaved plantain has a low growth habit that the stems and leaves meet at the base.
Another thing worth mentioning is that broadleaf plantain is a flowering weed. It produces thin spikes with tiny green flowers. The spikes grow straight up out of the base. The flowers carry seeds, which are easily dispersed by the wind. They will keep multiplying in your yard until there is a huge problem.
Plantain Weed Control Methods
Plantain weeds grow aggressively in compacted soil. Soil compaction limits the level of nutrients and water that get to the roots. Unfortunately, this leads to weak grass, which cannot compete with weeds.
Without proper lawn care and maintenance, plantain weeds can prove a major headache for any homeowner when they invade your yard.
So how can you protect your lawn and fight against these weeds? There are two ways to go about it:
- Aerating compacted soil
- Follow a regular fertilization schedule
Soil Aeration
Soil compaction happens easier than many North Carolina homeowners may think. Your lawn does not have to see a lot of heavy use. Even occasional outdoor entertainment activities or yard play by kids can create tightly compacted soil.
Your first line of defense against the weeds is growing thicker, healthier grass. By regularly aerating your lawn, you improve the flow of essentials like oxygen, water, nutrients, and sunlight.
For the best results, you will want to consider core aeration. This type of lawn aeration technique involves using a machine that makes tiny holes into the lawn, loosening the soil.
The professionals at RDS Lawn Care use liquid aeration, which involves applying a specialized solution to the lawn to break down dense particles in the soil.
Fertilizing Your Lawn
Scheduling regular fertilizer applications are equally important to develop a healthy, weed-free lawn. Even though soil supplies grass with the most nutrients, many soils in North Carolina do not meet the nutritional demands during the entire growing season.
Fertilizers supply the soil with the required amount of nutrients, promoting strong roots and new leaf growth. However, before fertilizing your lawn, it is advisable to consult a lawn care professional near you to help determine the suitable fertilizer for your type of grass. The fertilizers that work for cool-season grass may not be ideal for a warm-season grass type.
Are Plantain Weeds Overpowering Your Lawn? What Next?
If plantain weeds have spread throughout your yard, consider getting in touch with trusted lawn care specialists. At RDS Lawn Care, we have the tools and expertise to diagnose and provide solutions to common lawn issues, including eliminating plantain weeds.
Whether your lawn needs soil aeration or fertilization treatments to fight off weeds, we have you covered with a comprehensive weed control program.
Schedule an Assessment With Experts Today!
Do not let the unsightly plantains or any other weeds compromise the appeal of your property. Contact RDS Lawn Care at (704) 327-2104 if you are ready to grow a healthy, weed-free lawn in Charlotte, Mt. Holly, and Belmont, NC areas. We look forward to serving you and exceeding your expectations.
