Time To Treat Summer's Weeds

In 2012, the US experienced one of the hottest summers on record, and with that has come more summer weeds than normal. Also, with more than two thirds of the country experiencing severe drought, conditions were ideal for invasive weeds to flourish.

Dandelions, crabgrass and clover tolerate hot temperatures and dry soil conditions, overtaking lawns and gardens and lingering throughout the cooler fall months. Ivy and other aggressive vines also thrive in heat, and can eventually kill the plants underneath with their shade.

The Time To Treat Is In The Fall

''Fall herbicide treatments are the most effective way to eliminate unattractive and potentially harmful plants from lawns and gardens so that those spaces can be enjoyed throughout the cool fall months,'' said Aaron Hobbs, president of RISE (Responsible Industry for a Sound Environment), a national organization representing the manufacturers, formulators and distributors of pesticide and fertilizer products.

''This is the best time of year to eliminate invasive plants,'' Hobbs added. ''Weeds move the products of photosynthesis like water, glucose and oxygen to their roots for winter food storage in the fall, enabling the roots to soak up herbicides as well.'' Two to three treatments are usually all that is needed to completely destroy these types of plants.

Effective herbicide options exist for every type of weed and vine. With just one or two follow-up treatments after an initial fall herbicide application, invasive plants are eradicated at the root, and contractors can reclaim their clients' lawns for the fall.