How to Keep Dandelions out of your Yard
Dandelions were introduced to the US by European settlers who used them as a food source. But hundreds of years later, as diets have changed and dandelions have adapted a little too well, this perennial flower is now considered a weed.
If you prefer a lush lawn covered in uniform turf, use this guide to help keep your yard free of these weeds. With a combination of science and elbow grease, you can get rid of dandelions and have a lawn that is the envy of the neighborhood.
Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
-
1
First, understand the life cycle of the dandelion. It is a perennial plant, meaning that even though the stems and leaves die over winter, the root system survives underground. This allows the same weed plant to pop up year after year. Thus, the key to getting rid of dandelions is to attack the root system.
-
2
Next, test your soil pH, and adjust if necessary. Dandelions grow best in slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 7.5, though they can tolerate lower, more acidic pHs. Most grasses prefer slightly acidic soil, with a pH less than 7. One way to deter dandelions is to lower the soil pH to the range that grass prefers. Sulfur, sawdust, wood chips and peat moss can be used to make soil more acidic.
-
-
3
Plant a type of grass that thrives in your geographic area. Competition from grass will stem the growth of dandelions, especially if you use a grass that is native and hardy.
-
4
During the spring and fall, when the dandelion shoots are most visible, get on your hands and knees and uproot them. Dandelion tap roots can reach as far as 12" under your lawn, so use a long knife to dig into the soil near the plant, and cut out the root.
-
5
Whenever you dig out a dandelion and its root, spray the hole with a little weed killer to kill any pieces of root that you weren't able to dig up.
-
6
If your neighbors have a bad weed problem, you can protect your lawn from the windborne seeds by erecting a solid fence. This won't completely prevent the seeds from drifting over to your side of the fence, but in combination with Steps 2 and 3, you will have fewer new dandelions taking root.
-
7
Keep your grass healthy by removing the clippings whenever you mow, and adding some turf building fertilizer. Use conservative techniques to water your lawn. Healthy grass is the best weapon against dandelions.
-
1
Resources
- Photo Credit stock.xchange
