How to Identify and Remove Invasive Weeds in Fort Worth, TX

Weeds can quickly take over a lawn, stealing nutrients, water, and sunlight from healthy grass. In Fort Worth, TX, certain invasive weeds thrive in the warm climate and can be difficult to control if not addressed early. Knowing how to identify and remove these weeds effectively can make all the difference in keeping your lawn healthy and vibrant.

How to Identify and Remove Invasive Weeds in Fort Worth, TX

Common Invasive Weeds in Fort Worth, TX

Here are some of the most common invasive weeds found in Fort Worth lawns:

1. Crabgrass (Digitaria spp.)

Crabgrass is a summer annual weed that spreads rapidly in thin or stressed lawns. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and can take over your yard if left unchecked.

  • Identification: Light green, coarse-textured grass with sprawling stems that grow outward.
  • Removal: Hand-pull small infestations before they seed. Use a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring to prevent growth.

2. Dandelions (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelions spread quickly due to their wind-blown seeds and deep taproots, making them tough to remove.

  • Identification: Bright yellow flowers that turn into white seed puffs, jagged leaves, and a deep taproot.
  • Removal: Pull by hand, making sure to remove the entire root. Spot-treat with post-emergent herbicide.

3. Nutsedge (Cyperus spp.)

Nutsedge is a persistent weed that thrives in overly wet areas and spreads through underground tubers.

  • Identification: Grass-like, stiff, and waxy leaves that grow taller than surrounding grass. Produces seed heads with a triangular stem.
  • Removal: Pull manually before tubers spread. Use a selective herbicide designed for nutsedge.

4. Clover (Trifolium repens)

While some homeowners like clover for its nitrogen-fixing properties, it can quickly take over a lawn if not controlled.

  • Identification: Small white or pink flowers with three-leaf clusters.
  • Removal: Improve soil nitrogen levels and mow regularly. Use selective broadleaf herbicides if necessary.

5. Chickweed (Stellaria media)

Chickweed is a cool-season weed that spreads low across the ground and forms dense mats.

  • Identification: Small, star-shaped white flowers with oval leaves.
  • Removal: Hand-pull before flowering. Maintain a thick lawn to prevent spreading.

6. Spurge (Euphorbia maculata)

This weed grows in thin, patchy lawns and produces a milky sap that can irritate the skin.

  • Identification: Low-growing plant with reddish stems and small oval leaves.
  • Removal: Hand-pull with gloves. Apply pre-emergent herbicide in early spring.

Effective Weed Removal Strategies

1. Hand-Pulling Weeds

For small infestations, hand-pulling is an effective way to remove weeds. Ensure you remove the entire root system, especially for weeds like dandelions and nutsedge.

2. Mowing at the Right Height

Keeping your lawn at the correct mowing height helps grass outcompete weeds. Most lawns in Fort Worth do well with a mowing height of 2.5 to 3.5 inches.

3. Using Pre-Emergent Herbicides

Pre-emergent herbicides prevent weed seeds from sprouting. Apply them in early spring and fall to target annual weeds like crabgrass and chickweed.

4. Applying Post-Emergent Herbicides

For weeds that have already sprouted, post-emergent herbicides can help. Use selective herbicides to avoid damaging your lawn.

5. Mulching Garden Beds

A thick layer of mulch in garden beds helps prevent weeds by blocking sunlight and reducing moisture loss.

6. Proper Lawn Watering

Weeds thrive in stressed lawns. Water your lawn deeply and infrequently—about 1 to 1.5 inches per week—to encourage deep root growth.

7. Improving Soil Health

Aerating and fertilizing your lawn helps maintain healthy grass that naturally outcompetes weeds. Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient needs.

Preventing Weeds from Returning

A long-term weed management plan is essential for keeping your lawn weed-free. Here are some key tips:

  • Keep your lawn thick and healthy by overseeding bare patches.
  • Avoid overwatering or underwatering to prevent conditions that favor weeds.
  • Use proper mowing techniques to maintain a strong grass root system.
  • Monitor your lawn regularly and remove new weeds before they spread.

Keep Your Lawn Weed-Free with Mow & Grow

Tired of dealing with invasive weeds? Let the experts at Mow & Grow take care of it for you! Our professional lawn maintenance and weed control services in Fort Worth, TX, will keep your yard healthy and beautiful year-round. Call us today at (817) 717-2686 to schedule an appointment!