Gardening expert explains how to get rid of weeds without ruining your lawn

22 February 2023 , 01:58

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A gardening expert has given tips on how to banish weeds without ruining your lawn (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Spring is just around the corner so it is time to sort your lawn out now before the warmer weather, hopefully, comes round.

A good-looking lawn in the summer sun is what many of us strive for but the work needs to start now, according to a gardening expert.

David Angelov, master gardener at PlantParenthood, spoke to website Home and Gardens about five easy hacks which can lead to lush lawns.

The first tip is how to kill weeds but not the grass and understanding that there are two types of weeds.

David explained: "Before you can effectively remove weeds from your lawn, you need to know what types of weeds exist in your garden.

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Weeds are the bane of gardeners (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

"There are two main types of weeds: annual and perennial. Annual weeds grow and die within a single growing season, while perennial weeds come back year after year."

The most effective way to get rid of weeds is to uproot them by hand. This method will cause less damage on the turf and ensures that the whole plant has been pulled out. Grass will grow in any space left by the weed.

Improving the health of your lawn by using weed killers is another key aspect. Using lawn-specific weed killers between April and September, when they are actively growing, no more than twice a year is important.

"A healthy lawn is less likely to have weed problems," David added. "You may also want to consider fertilising your lawn and overseeding bare areas to help promote healthy grass growth (reducing weed growth)."

Mowing regularly is another aspect which will improve lawn health. Try not, if possible, to use the option of spreading grass cutting on your mower as this could help bed weed seeds back into the lawn.

Pulling out weeds by hand is the most effective method (Getty Images)

"Make sure to mow your lawn regularly and not cut it too short, as well as watering it deeply, but infrequently," David said.

Aerating the lawn helps healthy grass roots and growth while stifling weed growth by using spikes and plugs to de-compact the soil.

It is recommended that aerating should happen before fertilising. If weeds are an issue, a weed killer and fertiliser combine is suffice.

Once spring does come round, sprinkling corn gluten meal will boost your lawn's health and suppress weed growth in the meantime. This should take place between the end of March and the middle of April.

Josh Luckhurst