Leaves are starting to fall signaling the end of summer and beginning of the cooler months of the year.  Some lawn chores need to be done at this time if you wish to have that pristine lawn of the neighborhood.  Weed control is thought to be a springtime task and for many weeds it is.  However, if you want to get rid of dandelion fall is the best month!

Dandelion is a perennial herb that forms a rosette in lawns and gardens. What gives rise to a “puffball” head is an inflorescence composed of yellow ray florets. New plants germinate primarily in the fall (late September).

Early Mid-October to November is the most effective time to control broadleaf weeds, including dandelions in lawns. Dandelion usually produces a flush of new plants in late September.  These young plants are small and easily controlled with herbicides such as 2,4-D or a combination of products (Trimec, Weed-B-Gon, Weed Out) that contain 2,4-D, MCPP and Dicamba.

Even established dandelions are more easily controlled in the fall rather than in the spring because they are actively moving materials from the top portion of the plant to the roots. Herbicides will translocate to the roots as well and will kill the plant from the roots up. Be sure to choose a day that is 50 degrees or higher. The better the weed is growing, the more weed killer will be moved from the leaves to the

roots. Cold temperatures will slow or stop this process.

Weed Free Zone contains the three active ingredients mentioned above plus carfentrazone. It gives a quicker response than the other products mentioned and will work better when temperatures drop below 50 degrees.

photo credit – David Wright