Weeds can be a real pain for gardeners, but there’s one simple task you can do this autumn to remove them for good – and it’s all about digging them up
Removing weeds can be a tedious task, but one that is good to do now(Image: wildpixel via Getty Images)
While there are certain gardening tasks that should be avoided in autumn and early winter, there are also many jobs best tackled during the cooler, darker days of the year. One such task is de-weeding your garden.
Weed control can be a frustrating and time-consuming process, and it often feels like a never-ending battle – they seem to be everywhere. Despite some weeds appearing harmless, they can pose a serious threat to your healthy grass.
If not effectively managed, they can completely overrun your beautiful lawn.
Before the weather turns significantly colder, weeds are still growing, albeit less vigorously, and lawns are less stressed than in the summer months. If the soil is damp as well, this makes pulling weeds much easier.
But that’s not the only reason you should tackle weeds in autumn. Doing so also prevents them from setting seed or hiding under the soil over winter, ready to sprout next spring, reports the Express.
Digging lawn weeds out by hand is the best method(Image: Getty)
According to gardening experts at George Davies Turf and Stone, the most effective way to permanently remove lawn weeds is to dig them up.
Hand-digging weeds ensures you’re concentrating on removing the entire root.
The experts advised: “With your weeds, be mindful not just to remove the leaves, as the roots will still be there, and that’s where the problem lies.
“Hold the weed above the ground firmly and tug the plant out. You can use a garden fork or weeding tool to dig into the soil and under the weeds to fully lift the roots.”
Remove weeds from your lawn for good with gardener’s 1 simple task that needs doing now(Image: Getty)
It’s crucial to ensure you’re removing as much of the weed root and seeds as possible to stop them from re-emerging next year when they’re exposed to warmth and sunlight again.
If your lawn becomes patchy after pulling weeds, add some topsoil and reseed, particularly if the weather is mild.
The experts advised: “Be sure to fill any holes with earth or grass seed to stop weeds from returning.”
Taking these steps now also means that you can prepare your garden for winter with ease.
Don’t fret if you miss out now, as weeding can generally be done at any time of the year – provided it’s not snowy or icy. But if you want to get a head start for next year, autumn and early winter weeding can be extremely beneficial.
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