Get matched with top weed maintenance pros in Dalton, OH

Pulling weeds can spread weed seeds and disturb the soil, leading to seed germination. Pulling weeds can also trigger growth in weeds that reproduce through their root systems—disturbing the roots without fully removing them may cause more weeds to grow from the roots.

Several tools exist that can help remove unwanted grass. The one you choose depends greatly on how much you need to remove and how hard you'd like to work. A sod or turf cutter is the fastest method while using a shovel is labor-intensive and much slower. You may also need a garden rake, tiller, and wheelbarrow. 

Mowing your grass regularly, especially if you’re mowing close to the ground, can help kill Johnsongrass. Frequent mowing helps limit the spread of Johnsongrass and can even deplete carbohydrate reserves in rhizomes over time. The more time you leave in between mowing, the more likely Johnsongrass is to regrow and take over your lawn. 

You should add 1 to 4 inches of mulch, depending on your garden type and needs. Keep in mind that no amount of mulch can completely prevent weeds, but a heavier coverage (closer to 4 inches) can suppress weeds enough that you are only seeing them sprout every few weeks. Finer mulch prevents weeds more effectively than large mulch, so if you’re using mulched leaves or shredded bark, 1 to 2 inches will likely suffice, while 3 to 4 inches is best for larger mulch, like bark chips or straw.