As winter departs and we look for Spring across St. Louis, you may find yourself wondering about those pesky winter weed already on your lawns. Don’t they die off when the temperature drops? Why do they return? And most importantly, what can you do to prevent them? At Lawn Doctor of Fenton, we understand how frustrating winter weeds can be. That’s why we’re here to answer your questions and help you prepare for a vibrant, “weed-free” lawn come spring.
Do Winter Weeds Die in St. Louis Winters?
The short answer is yes—many winter weeds, especially annual ones, die in the winter. However, they often leave seeds behind that can survive the harshest conditions. These seeds have protective coatings that shield them from cold temperatures and even some herbicides, allowing them to sprout in the spring.
Other winter weeds, like those with deep root systems, can survive the winter underground. Once spring arrives, their roots quickly grow and produce a new crop of weeds. This means you can’t rely on winter’s chill to eliminate your weed problems. Proactive weed control is essential to stop these invaders before they spread.
Common Winter Weeds in St. Louis Lawns
Winter weeds come in many varieties, and knowing which ones are common in the St. Louis area will help you tackle them effectively. Here are some of the most troublesome winter weeds to watch out for:
- Common Chickweed
Common chickweed forms dense mats of greenery in cool weather. It’s a winter annual with small white flowers that can quickly take over garden beds and lawns if not controlled. - Clover
Clover is a persistent winter weed that can spread rapidly. While some homeowners appreciate its ability to fix nitrogen and improve soil quality, it competes with grass for space and can create an uneven lawn appearance. - Wild Violets
Wild violets are perennial weeds with heart-shaped leaves and small purple flowers. These weeds thrive in shady areas and can be difficult to eradicate once they establish themselves. - Henbit
Henbit is another winter annual in the mint family that’s common in St. Louis. It has rounded leaves and grows in dense patches. Henbit’s small purple flowers can appear early in the spring, and the plant grows tall when seeding, making it more noticeable. While it can help thicken your lawn in some cases, it’s best to control it before it spreads.
How to Prevent and Control Winter Weeds in St. Louis
Now that you know what to look out for, how can you stop winter weeds from taking over your lawn? Here are some effective strategies:
- Apply Pre-Emergent Herbicides
Pre-emergent herbicides target weed seeds before they sprout. Applying these treatments in late fall or early winter can prevent annual winter weeds like chickweed and henbit from germinating. At Lawn Doctor, we use top-quality pre-emergent herbicides tailored to the St. Louis climate and soil conditions for maximum effectiveness. - Spot Treatments for Existing Weeds
If winter weeds have already sprouted, spot treatments are the best way to eliminate them. Our experts can identify and treat specific weeds without harming your grass or garden plants. - Mulching Garden Beds
Adding mulch to garden beds can help prevent weeds by blocking sunlight from reaching the soil. This is especially effective for areas prone to chickweed and other mat-forming weeds. - Lawn Fertilization
A healthy lawn is your best defense against weeds. Regular fertilization ensures that your grass has the nutrients it needs to thrive, leaving less room for weeds to take root. We’ll customize a fertilization plan for your yard to promote strong, resilient turf.
Below are images of the most common winter weeds found in St. Louis to help you identify them:
- Common Chickweed
- Clover
- Wild Violets
- Henbit
By learning to identify these weeds, you can take the first step toward controlling them effectively.
