Let’s talk weeds and what to do about them

Weeds often get a bad name, popping up uninvited in lawns and borders, messing with the look of a well-kept garden, and sometimes outcompeting your grass for sunlight, water, and nutrients. But before you go waging war with sprays and spades, it’s worth taking a step back.

Weeds aren’t just a nuisance, they’re also part of the natural ecosystem. Some support pollinators, improve soil health, or even indicate what your lawn might be lacking. That said, if they’re taking over your lawn or garden, there are plenty of ways to manage them… many of which don’t require chemicals.

First, Know What You’re Dealing With

Not all weeds are created equal. A dandelion isn’t the same as clover, and crabgrass behaves very differently from moss. Take a little time to identify what’s growing, there are plenty of guides and apps to help. Once you know the type, you’ll be better equipped to deal with it, naturally or otherwise.

Go Natural: Non-Herbicidal Weed Control

Hand-pulling is still one of the most effective and environmentally friendly ways to deal with individual weeds. Use a hand weeder or even a kitchen fork to dig deep and get the roots. Try doing this after rain or watering as wet soil makes the job easier and more effective.

Mulching around flower beds or borders helps smother weeds before they get a chance to grow, while also feeding the soil and retaining moisture for your plants. You can use bark chips, compost, or even cardboard and newspaper layers.

Vinegar or boiling water can sometimes be used to kill off weeds on patios and paths. These methods aren’t selective, though, so use carefully around grass or garden plants.

Keep your grass healthy. A thick, vigorous lawn is one of the best defences against weeds. Regular mowing (not too short!), feeding, and proper watering help crowd out weeds naturally. Overseeding patchy areas can also help fill in gaps where weeds might try to settle.

When Herbicides Are an Option

While natural methods are great for most cases, there are times when a targeted herbicide may be helpful, especially for particularly stubborn or widespread weeds. If you do choose to go down that route, look for selective herbicides designed for lawns and always follow the label instructions carefully to avoid damaging the surrounding grass and wildlife.

You might also consider a pre-emergent herbicide if you’ve had repeat issues with things like crabgrass. These work by stopping seeds from germinating in the first place, and timing is everything, usually applied in early spring.

Are Weeds Really All Bad?

It’s worth remembering: not every weed is the enemy. Dandelions, for example, are an early source of food for bees. Clover helps fix nitrogen in the soil, which can actually benefit your lawn. And sometimes, weeds tell you something important like compacted soil or poor drainage.

So, while it’s perfectly reasonable to want a tidy, green lawn, you don’t always need to aim for perfection. A little tolerance and a bit of balance go a long way.

Weeds are a part of gardening life. Instead of reaching straight for the spray, try a more natural, holistic approach. With a bit of effort and consistency (plus some appreciation for the occasional wildflower) you can keep your lawn healthy and mostly weed-free without harming the environment.