Get matched with top weed maintenance pros in Lancaster, KY

Each type of weed comes with its own control methods, but stopping the seed spread is the first step. Grazing, mowing, and hand pulling can slow the invasion. In some cases, selective herbicide is necessary to stop a persistent weed from overtaking an area.

Weeds may grow back when pulled out if the root is not completely removed. Invasive weeds can regrow from just a small portion of remaining root, so using a weed-pulling tool can help ensure you remove the entire root. Weeds may grow back faster if roots aren’t fully removed, and incomplete removal could cause them to spread as well.

Pulling weeds once per month is typically often enough to keep most weeds at bay. But in general, it's best to pull weeds as soon as you spot them to prevent deep root growth and slow their spread. To make it easier, plan your weed pulling after rain or after the sprinklers run so the soil will be nice and wet and the weeds will be easier to pull. If you notice moss accompanying weeds, make a plan to remove the moss immediately to prevent damage.

Poison oak is similar to poison ivy in that it's in the same family of plants. Poison oak is identifiable by its rounded-off leaves and hairy leaf texture. Tree-climbing varieties live primarily in western states while low-growing poison oak bushes occupy the eastern states. Treat poison oak like poison ivy to get rid of it permanently.