How to Kill Weeds Without Harming the Lawn

Mow your lawn to 3 inches or higher to shade out weeds. If your lawn grass doesn't grow to 3 inches tall, mow it to its maximum height. Lawn "scalping," or cutting too low, can damage your grass and give weeds an opportunity to invade the turf.

Repair bare spots in the early spring by sodding or planting grass seed. If the weeds have too much competition, they can't thrive.

Hand weed difficult perennial weeds such as dandelion. Removing weeds by their roots is the best way to keep them from growing back.

Avoid compacting soil by placing stepping stones in high-traffic pathways. Play areas can become compacted quickly. Aerate high-traffic areas yearly to provide drainage and encourage healthy grass growth.

Take notice of adverse cultural conditions in your yard. If one area is taken over by weeds, find out what is causing it. Check for soil compaction, drainage or insects that can make that area an inhospitable place for grass, but a haven for weeds.

Fertilize your lawn to keep it healthy so weeds can't take hold. A thin, weak lawn is a breeding ground for weed seeds. Don't give the weeds space to infiltrate the turf.

Use the right herbicides at the right time and the right place. Educate yourself on what herbicides can be used on your particular turf grass, and when and how they are applied. For example, pre-emergents are applied for certain weeds early in the spring while post-emergents must be applied after the weeds are growing. Follow label directions strictly and carefully to avoid damaging your grass.