– New Mexico’s Premier Landscaping Company since 1981 !

To Weed or Not to Weed, that is the Question…

As a point of clarification, I’m not speaking of marijuana, cannabis, dope, pot, hashish, ganja, Mary Jane or grass, I’m referring to the unwanted weed(s) that appears in your yard. And while we all have them, let’s take a look at how we can transform weed management from frustrating to feasible.

To manage weeds effectively, it is important to understand the types of weeds you’re dealing with and their growth cycles. Generally, there are two types of weeds: annuals and perennials (just like flowers). Annual weeds, such as crabgrass and chickweed, complete their lifecycle in one season and rely heavily on seeds to propagate. Perennial weeds, like dandelions and thistles, can live for multiple years and often spread through underground roots as well as seeds. Identifying the specific types of weeds allows you to tailor your approach to their specific growth habits and possible vulnerabilities. For example, pre-emergent herbicides are effective against annual weeds by targeting their seeds before they germinate, and post-emergent herbicides are better suited for tackling established perennial weeds.  

Here at WaterQuest, we incorporate a variety of tools and techniques to tailor weed control strategies effectively. Here’s how we do it:

* Selective Herbicides are key players in targeting weeds and allow desirable grass to flourish while eliminating unwanted species. By choosing the right formulation, we can address specific weed issues without broad-spectrum impact, making this approach ideal for maintaining the delicate balance a residential lawn needs.

* Mechanical removal, like pulling and digging, is invaluable and offers immediate results, especially for larger weeds that are easily accessible. This method works well in combination with other strategies, providing a quick fix while chemical or organic treatments take effect. Here’s a tip for removing unsightly tumbleweeds: simply “roll” the tumbleweed over, like it’s doing a somersault, and the root should pop right out of the ground.

* Enhancing soil health is a natural defense against weeds. Healthy soil promotes vigorous lawn growth, outcompeting weeds and reducing their chances to establish. Keep in mind that soil is not an inert growing medium; rather, it is a living and life-giving natural resource. It is teaming with billions of bacteria, fungi and other microbes that are the foundation of an elegant symbiotic ecosystem. Techniques to enhance the health of your soil include proper fertilization, aeration and organic help.

* Physical barriers, such as landscape fabric and mulch, can effectively prevent weed emergence by blocking sunlight and physically preventing weed growth. These methods are particularly effective in garden beds and around shrubs where direct competition with grass is not a concern.

*  Regular law care, including mowing at the correct height, ensures that your grass remains healthy and dense, which discourages weed proliferation. Monitoring your lawn regularly helps catch and address potential weed issues before they become widespread problems.

At WaterQuest we blend traditional methods with the latest technology to provide you with superior lawn care. We strive to ensure your lawn is not only beautiful but also sustainable. Call us today at #505-792-3600 to schedule lawn care maintenance and/or a one-time cleanup.