Dealing with weeds in your lawn can be incredibly frustrating, especially when it feels like they’re winning the battle. Maybe you’ve noticed dandelions popping up where your kids play or patches of crabgrass spreading faster than you can pull them. We’ve all been there, staring at our once lush lawn and wondering how to get it back. 

The truth is, weeds often signal that something isn’t quite right beneath the surface. One of the most effective ways to strengthen your grass and push out weeds is through proper lawn fertilizing. By giving your lawn the nutrients it needs, you can make it healthier and more resilient, making it harder for weeds to take over. 

But don’t worry—whether you’re in Decatur or nearby, with the expert approach, you’ll be able to tackle these pesky invaders and bring your lawn back to life.

What are common lawn weeds?

Weeds generally fall into two main categories: broadleaf and grassy. Common broadleaf weeds include dandelions, dollarweed, and chickweed. These weeds are recognizable by their wide leaves with noticeable veins and often striking flowers—ones you’ve probably seen before.

Why is your lawn full of weeds?

Understanding the reasons why weeds have taken over your lawn is key to preventing future problems. Here are some of them:

• Mowing too short:  Cutting the grass too short easily leads to bare spots, making the lawn more susceptible to weed invasion, disease, and drought.
• Not enough water: Inadequate watering leads to an environment where weeds and pests can easily take over, as the lawn struggles to compete for resources.
• Poor drainage: This leads to waterlogged soil, which suffocates grassroots and promotes the growth of fungi and other diseases. It also creates conditions where weeds, which can tolerate wet conditions better than grass, may thrive.
• Compacted soil: This results in weakened grass and bare patches, which weeds can quickly exploit.
• Poor soil nutrition: Soil lacking essential nutrients leads to weak, slow-growing grass that can’t compete with weeds. Proper fertilization is necessary to provide the nutrients that grass needs to grow thick and healthy

How to fix a weedy lawn?

1. Identify the weeds: Knowing what you’re dealing with will help you choose the right treatment method and herbicide.
2. Choose a proper herbicide: Once you know the types of weeds, choose an herbicide specifically designed to target them without harming your grass or consult a professional to help you out. 
3. Wait: Give the herbicide time to work. Weeds won’t disappear overnight; it may take a few days to a couple of weeks to see the full effect. 
4. Mow, rake, and till: Once the weeds have died, mow your lawn to remove the dead plant material. Rake up any debris, and if necessary, till the soil lightly to prepare for new growth.
5. Aerate: Aerate the soil to improve air, water, and nutrient penetration, which promotes healthier grass growth.
6. Fertilize: This will help the grass outcompete any remaining weeds and promote thick, lush growth.
7. Test: Conduct a soil test to check for pH imbalances or nutrient deficiencies. Based on the results, amend the soil with lime, sulfur, or additional fertilizer as needed to create an optimal environment for grass.
8. Lay down seed: Replant bare spots with grass seed. Choose a grass type that suits your region and lawn conditions for the best results.
9. Water your lawn: Water the newly seeded or sodded areas regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist until the grass is established. 
10. Regular maintenance: Mowing, watering, fertilizing, and occasional aeration are key to preventing future weed problems. A thriving lawn is your best defense against weeds. For the best results, consider bringing in expert help. 

Who provides precise lawn fertilization and general lawn care in Decatur, IL?

After all the effort you’ve put into your lawn, you’ll want to maintain it to prevent weeds from returning. The idea of regular upkeep—fertilization, aeration, and continued weed control—can feel overwhelming. This is where a professional lawn care company like Classy Grass can step in and make things easier for you.

We’ll help you identify those pesky weeds and get rid of them for good. As a trusted leader in the area, we use proven methods and the finest practices to keep your lawn looking its best. Give us a call, no matter if you’re in Decatur or elsewhere in Macon County!