Get matched with top lawn care providers in Bethany, MO

Ultimately, pulling weeds vs. spraying them depends on what’s happening in your yard and your personal preferences. Manual weed removal doesn’t introduce any chemicals into your landscape, targets specific problematic plants, produces immediate results, can be free if you go the DIY route, and is inexpensive with a weed service if you only have a handful of weeds. On the other hand, spraying is often preferable for severe weed infestations and situations involving difficult-to-pull weeds because it treats multiple weeds at once, is usually more effective long-term, is less time-consuming, and costs less when done by a pro.

If possible, you should prioritize pulling weeds up by hand. However, be sure not to use your bare hands, as many weeds are sharp or otherwise irritating when they come in contact with skin. Always don thick, protective gardening gloves to protect your hands when you pull up weeds.

If you don’t remove a bush properly, it’ll come back each year. Removing the root system entirely is the only way to ensure the plant doesn’t have a chance to grow back. You can also use natural weed killers or you can choose to suppress the area with landscaping fabric. Additionally, consider planting alternative, non-invasive vegetation to deter the return of thorn bushes.

Pruning bushes will encourage new growth and flowering and keep them hardy. Removing dead and diseased branches is vital to your bush's health. It can also deter pests from infesting your bushes. Not only is it beneficial to the bushes, trimming and shaping them will make your lawn look lush and polished.