We have to say we truly enjoy gardening. It is the most relaxing and uplifting activity we found that it helps us recharge after a long week. While still at the university we liked to go to one of the communal gardens in the city. But, when we moved into our first home our joy was endless, because of the fairly big backyard. Previous owners didn’t care so much about the garden, so we immediately rolled up our sleeves. It took quite a bit of effort, but several months later we had a garden that made us proud.

However, there was an issue we weren’t quite sure how to handle. In short, despite all our efforts, we couldn’t seem to find a good way to get rid of weeds. More precisely, we couldn’t figure out how to kill weeds in the lawn without killing grass. We tried talking with some friends. But, as it turned out, everyone had the same problem. Then, we turned for help to experts, who informed us that it is not surprising no one could help us. They said actually, that most Americans don’t know so much about lawn care. We have to say that this came as a surprise for us, and we thought, initially, that it is a bit harsh to put it that way. After all, many of us living in the States take great pride when it comes to our lawns. But, then, we remembered that none of our friends knew what we are supposed to do to only kill weeds, not grass.  Anyway, the lawn care experts also gave us tips on how to get rid of weeds naturally without killing grass. As we assume many of you are bothered by similar issues, we are sharing them with you.

Common Lawn Weeds: What Are They?

You see, when we talk about weeds, many of us think that it is always the same plant. But this is a misconception. Various weed species are making chaos in our lawns. Many are spread through airborne seeds, and it can be difficult to figure out how to get rid of weeds without killing grass.

• Plantain is a broadleaf perennial plant. You will recognize it by five veins that are running from the base. It is super resistant and can endure multiple mowing.
• Crabgrass is characterized by flat, pointed leaves and short, purplish-green stems. It looks like grass, so it is difficult to make the difference. It is also the most annoying weed plant.
• Yellow Nutsedge is a perennial sage that resembles grass.
• Henbit features ruffled leaves and purple flowers. It is butterflies’ favorite food in early spring.
• Lambsquarters has oval and triangular leaves. Leaves are covered with a white coating, so it appears to be dusty.
• Prostrate spurge is the plant that we can often see growing out of the sidewalk. It has pink stems and small oval leaves.
• Dandelion is a plant that we all know. A lot of kids love it, but generally, it is an annoying weed.
• Common Ragweed has coarse, hairy stems and hairy deeply lobed leaves.

How to Kill Weeds Without Chemicals

The first that comes to our minds when we think about getting rid of weeds is to use chemicals. However, this is not only hazardous for grass, but can also be dangerous for you, your pets, and kids. Besides, when the rain washes off the herbicide, it ends up in the sewers. That way, the chemicals that we use pollute the environment. Fortunately, though we can use homemade herbicides. Apart from that, other things can serve as a natural way to kill weeds but not grass.

Pull Weeds By Hand

The oldest and certainly efficient method to kill weeds without killing grass is pulling them by hand. Of course, you have to make sure that you succeed in pulling the whole thing with the root. Otherwise, it will grow back. Keep in mind to wear gardening gloves to avoid getting hurt and spreading seeds somewhere else.  It is good to use a sharp trowel or a similar tool to loosen the root from the soil before pulling it out.

Corn Meal

Corn gluten meal is like contraception for seeds. They are a great solution when you are looking for how to get rid of weeds naturally without killing grass. If you sprinkle it on the lawn and it will prevent weeds from germinating. However, you have to do this only when your turf is fully developed to prevent destroying the grass.

Pour Boiling Water

The other way to get rid of weeds is by using boiling water – the most natural way. However, it is recommended to apply it to the weeds that grow from the sidewalk. Otherwise, it will kill other plants as well. The hot water is most effective on the sprouts. It doesn’t affect the seeds. If you have ant hills in your garden, boiling water will also help you get rid of them.  The boiling water method is also good when you need to get rid of poison ivy. But be prepared to repeat the process several times.

Limit the Access to Sunlight

The shade is an ideal crabgrass killer. This plant needs a lot of sunlight to thrive. Thus, if you notice it on your lawn, the best you can do is cover it with something, so it is shaded. Creating shade where weeds grow is a great natural way to kill weeds but not grass. Believe it or not, you can use something as simple as a newspaper to cover the weeds. It may take a while, but after some time, the weeds will stop growing and die.

Mulch

It is a homemade weed killer that won’t kill the grass. Covering the lawn with mulch will prevent weed seeds to come in contact with soil in the first place. If there are seeds underground already, mulch will prevent the sunlight from reaching them, so they won’t be able to sprout. Much is generally beneficial because it enriches the soil.

Conclusion

The biggest fight of every gardener is to keep weeds away from their lawn and garden. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned gardener, you might need a bit of help with how to get rid of weeds naturally without killing grass. And what about you? Do you have some tips for getting rid of weed? Feel free to share them in the comments!