If you’re a homeowner in southeastern Michigan, you know that few things ruin curb appeal faster than a yard overtaken by weeds. From dandelions to crabgrass to ground ivy, weeds in Michigan are aggressive, persistent, and frustratingly familiar. At Lakeside Pro Services, we’ve helped countless homeowners take back their lawns from invasive species and patchy growth. Here’s how to keep weeds under control and your lawn looking its absolute best.
Know your enemy: Common Michigan weeds
Weeds come in many forms, and different types require different control methods. Identifying the type of weeds invading your yard is the first step toward effective control.
In southeastern Michigan, the most common culprits include:
- Dandelions – Broadleaf weeds that thrive in compacted soil and spread rapidly.
- Crabgrass – A grassy weed that pops up in thin or bare areas of your lawn.
- Creeping Charlie (ground ivy) – A fast-spreading weed that chokes out healthy grass.
- Quackgrass – Difficult to remove due to its deep, rhizome-based root system.
Pushing back against weed overgrowth
Are you ready to fight back against these tiny trespassers? Pull on your work boots and make a few changes in your regular lawn maintenance chores. You may be surprised to discover that small changes will make a huge difference in taming weed growth.
Mow high and often. Many homeowners make the mistake of cutting their grass too short. This actually invites weeds by allowing more sunlight to reach the soil and weed seeds. Keep your grass around 3 to 4 inches tall, and mow frequently to encourage dense turf that naturally shades out weed growth.
Feed your lawn to fight weeds naturally. Healthy lawns are the best defense against weeds. In southeastern Michigan, it’s essential to fertilize in the spring and fall to give your grass the nutrients it needs to grow thick and strong. A dense lawn outcompetes weeds for sunlight, water, and nutrients.
Apply pre-emergent weed control in early spring. Pre-emergent herbicides prevent weed seeds like crabgrass from germinating in the first place. Timing is crucial in Michigan. You’ll want to apply it when the soil temperatures reach about 55°F for several consecutive days.
Use post-emergent treatments when necessary. For weeds that have already taken root, post-emergent herbicides can be used to spot-treat problem areas. These are most effective when applied on a dry, calm day when temperatures are between 60°F-85°F.
Aerate and overseed in the fall. Michigan lawns benefit from core aeration, which loosens compacted soil and allows nutrients and water to reach grass roots. After aeration, overseeding helps thicken the lawn and crowd out weed growth. This is especially effective in areas with poor drainage or heavy clay soil, which is common in southeastern Michigan.
Edge garden beds and walkways. Weeds love to creep in from the edges, especially along sidewalks, driveways, and flower beds. Installing physical edging and applying mulch in garden areas helps suppress weed growth and keeps your landscape looking sharp.
Hire a local lawn care professional
Controlling weeds in southeastern Michigan is an ongoing process. If your schedule simply doesn’t include time for extensive lawn care – or if you’re looking for a lush lawn and input from the experts – consider a local professional like Lakeside Pro Services. The weather, soil, and seasonal changes all affect how and when weeds appear. Our team of skilled professionals understands these regional challenges and offers tailored solutions based on years of experience. Whether you’re starting from scratch or need help restoring a weed-infested yard, we’re here to help make your lawn the best-looking one on the block.
Are you ready to reclaim your lawn? Don’t let weeds ruin your curb appeal this season. Let Lakeside Pro Services help you take control with proven lawn care strategies built for southeastern Michigan. Call us now at 586-445-2100 to schedule an appointment, or request an appointment online at https://lakesideproservices.com/schedule-service .