Weeds may grow more slowly this time of year, but they can still be a problem. Most of the weeds found in gardens and landscapes now are winter annuals. These weeds germinate in late summer or fall and grow during cool weather.
Annual weeds flower and set seed in spring and die in summer. Some of these weeds can produce hundreds to thousands of seeds per plant! As you may imagine, these weeds can quickly become difficult to control once established. The best time to control weeds is when they are small, before they bloom and set seed.
Manage annual winter weeds by hand pulling or hoeing, making sure you remove the entire root. Once you've cleared an area, apply 3-5 inches of mulch. Monitor your landscape weekly, pulling any weeds that emerge. Be aware that organic mulches break down and must be replaced every few years.
Young weeds in open areas can be killed using a small flaming tool. You can find these at local hardware stores or nurseries. In difficult cases where you have trouble getting control, you may want to use an herbicide. Be sure to identify your weeds before choosing a product. Read the label before application and follow directions carefully.
If you aren't sure what weeds you have in your garden, you can bring in samples to the Stanislaus UCCE Master Gardeners. Reach us at (209) 525-6800 or visit our office between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, at the Agricultural Center on 3800 Cornucopia Way, Ste A in Modesto, 95358. You can also email photos to ucmgstanislaus@ucanr.edu.
For more details on weed control, consult the following UC IPM Pest Notes: Weed Management in Landscapes and Weed Management in Lawns.
