A weed is defined as any plant growing in an undesirable location. These lawn invaders are classified into three types: broadleaf weeds (which have broad, flat leaves, such as dandelion and clover), grassy weeds (which look and grow like regular turf grass, such as crabgrass and foxtail), and grass-like weeds (which resemble grass but have distinct features like triangular or hollow leaves).

The best strategy for weed control depends on how severe the problem is:

• Lawn Overrun with Weeds: When broadleaf weeds dominate your yard, you can still achieve a beautiful lawn by using a direct solution. For best results, utilize the Scotts® line of weed control products designed for large areas.
• Lawn with Just a Few Weeds: For occasional broadleaf weeds, resist the temptation to hand-pull. Hand-pulling often breaks the roots, allowing the weed to grow back. Instead, use a targeted product like Scotts® Weed B Gon MAX. A weed control product specifically labeled as safe for lawns will effectively target the weeds while leaving your grass unharmed when applied as directed.

Stop annual grassy weeds, such as crabgrass, from taking over your summer lawn by focusing on spring prevention. Applying a pre-emergent weed control like Scotts® Turf Builder® Weed & Feed in the spring halts weed seeds before they can germinate.

Beyond spring treatment, a few simple, proper lawn care steps provide the best long-term medicine against weed invasion:

• Deep Watering: Encourage resilient, deep root growth by watering deeply but infrequently, allowing your grass to better compete with weeds.
• Mow Higher: Set your mower to one of the two highest settings. Taller, thicker grass effectively shades the soil, blocking the sunlight that weed seeds need to sprout.
• Proper Feeding: Maintain a dense, healthy turf that leaves little room for weeds by feeding regularly—about every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season.