{"id":33818,"date":"2025-04-07T18:13:45","date_gmt":"2025-04-07T18:13:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/?p=33818"},"modified":"2026-10-06T12:46:42","modified_gmt":"2026-10-06T12:46:42","slug":"common-california-weeds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/common-california-weeds\/","title":{"rendered":"The 19 Most Common Weeds in Your California Lawn"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\u2022 <strong>Grassy or broadleaf:<\/strong> California lawns battle grassy weeds like crabgrass and Bermudagrass, plus broadleaf weeds like mallow and dandelion.<br>\u2022 <strong>Timing matters:<\/strong> Winter rains trigger weeds like prickly lettuce, so pull or mow them before their seeds mature.<br>\u2022 <strong>Safety first:<\/strong> Poison hemlock and common groundsel are toxic if eaten, and foxtail awns can harm pets.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most common weeds in California include grassy weeds like crabgrass, Bermudagrass, and annual bluegrass, plus broadleaf weeds like mallow, dandelion, and field bindweed. Some sprout after winter rains, others in summer heat.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Below, you&#8217;ll learn to tell grassy weeds from broadleaf weeds, spot the most common invaders, and keep them out of your lawn.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Weeds in garden beds are part of the job for LawnLove\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnlove.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=flowerBedWeeding\">flower bed weeding service<\/a>, which pulls them before they steal water and nutrients from your plants.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-1e686361-c17c-4a69-b293-5845132c3b0c\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\">In this article:<\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/common-california-weeds\/#0-california-lawn-weeds-at-a-glance\" style=\"\">California lawn weeds at a glance<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/common-california-weeds\/#1-types-of-grassy-weeds-in-california\" style=\"\">Types of grassy weeds in California<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/common-california-weeds\/#8-types-of-broadleaf-weeds-in-california\" style=\"\">Types of broadleaf weeds in California<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/common-california-weeds\/#22-how-to-keep-weeds-out-of-your-california-lawn\" style=\"\">How to keep weeds out of your California lawn<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/common-california-weeds\/#23-faqs\" style=\"\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 id=\"0-california-lawn-weeds-at-a-glance\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"california-lawn-weeds-at-a-glance\">California lawn weeds at a glance<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most common weeds in California are grassy weeds, such as crabgrass and quackgrass, and broadleaf weeds, such as mallow and white clover. Use this table to match a weed to its type and life cycle, which tells you when to expect it.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Weed<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Type<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Life cycle<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Johnson grass<\/td><td>Grassy<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Quackgrass<\/td><td>Grassy<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Crabgrass<\/td><td>Grassy<\/td><td>Warm-season annual<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Foxtail<\/td><td>Grassy<\/td><td>Summer annual<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Annual bluegrass<\/td><td>Grassy<\/td><td>Winter annual<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bermudagrass<\/td><td>Grassy<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Prickly lettuce<\/td><td>Broadleaf<\/td><td>Winter annual<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cutleaf geranium<\/td><td>Broadleaf<\/td><td>Winter annual or biennial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Poison hemlock<\/td><td>Broadleaf<\/td><td>Biennial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Filaree (whitestem)<\/td><td>Broadleaf<\/td><td>Winter annual<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mallow (cheeseweed)<\/td><td>Broadleaf<\/td><td>Winter annual<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Common groundsel<\/td><td>Broadleaf<\/td><td>Winter annual<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Creeping woodsorrel<\/td><td>Broadleaf<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Common purslane<\/td><td>Broadleaf<\/td><td>Warm-season annual<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>White clover<\/td><td>Broadleaf<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Italian thistle<\/td><td>Broadleaf<\/td><td>Winter annual<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Field bindweed<\/td><td>Broadleaf<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Common chickweed<\/td><td>Broadleaf<\/td><td>Winter annual<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Dandelion<\/td><td>Broadleaf<\/td><td>Perennial<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/broadleaf-weeds-vs-grassy-weeds\/\">Broadleaf Weeds vs. Grassy Weeds: How to Tell Them Apart<\/a><\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"1-types-of-grassy-weeds-in-california\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"types-of-grassy-weeds-in-california\">Types of grassy weeds in California<\/span><\/h2>    <h3 id=\"2-johnson-grass-sorghum-halepense-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"johnson-grass-sorghum-halepense\">Johnson grass (<em>Sorghum halepense<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/48483128701_291a330885_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/plant_diversity\/48483128701\">Matt Lavin<\/a> | Flickr | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Johnson grass is considered one of the most problematic perennial grasses. It grows fast and competes aggressively with crop plants but is also found in gardens, roadsides, and fields. It grows in the Cascade Range foothills, Central Valley, western California, and the Sierra Nevada foothills to about 2,600 feet.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In California, <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/ipm.ucanr.edu\/PMG\/WEEDS\/johnsongrass.html\">Johnson grass<\/a> leaves can also produce enough hydrocyanic acid to poison livestock that graze on them.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>The bright green leaves have a vein in the middle and are narrow and smooth.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The stems are reddish closer to the base and can grow up to 7 feet tall.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Greenish flowers turn reddish or purplish upon maturity.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Flowers blossom from May until mid-fall or October.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"3-quackgrass-elytrigia-repens-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"quackgrass-elytrigia-repens\">Quackgrass (<em>Elytrigia repens<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/18654958759_f2b9b8ee07_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"Quackgrass (Elytrigia repens)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Quackgrass (Elytrigia repens) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/nys-ipm\/18654958759\">New York State IPM Program at Cornell University<\/a> | Flickr | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Quackgrass is found across California up to elevations of 5,900 feet. It is more prevalent in the northern part of the state and coastal areas and not typically found in the deserts.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although the weed prefers sandy and loamy soils, it thrives in multiple soil types, alkaline, and saline conditions. Quackgrass is hard to get rid of once it is established.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>It has coarse, flat, long leaves that are bluish-green and grow between 1 and 3 feet tall.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The spiked flower heads are flat and appear from May through September.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"4-crabgrass-digitaria-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"crabgrass-digitaria\">Crabgrass (<em>Digitaria<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/7117464907_4b9f094508_c.jpg\" alt=\"close-up of crabgrass (Digitaria violascens)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">close-up of crabgrass (Digitaria violascens) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/macleaygrassman\/7117464907\/\">Harry Rose<\/a> | Flickr | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Crabgrass grows throughout California but mainly at lower elevations, particularly in veggie gardens, flower beds, and lawns. Crabgrass is typically not found in dry areas during the summer.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>This weed grows up to 6 inches when unmowed and up to about 2 feet tall when mowed.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The dark green leaf blades are smooth and pointed.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Whorled spikes that are 2 to 6 inches long produce flowers and seeds.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"5-foxtail-setaria-spp-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"foxtail-setaria-spp\">Foxtail (<em>Setaria spp.<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/1024px-20140920Setaria_pumila3-1.jpg\" alt=\"Yellow foxtail (Setaria pumila)\" class=\"wp-image-33853\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/1024px-20140920Setaria_pumila3-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/1024px-20140920Setaria_pumila3-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/1024px-20140920Setaria_pumila3-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/1024px-20140920Setaria_pumila3-1-510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/1024px-20140920Setaria_pumila3-1-610x458.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">AnRo0002 | Wikimedia Commons <\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yellow and green foxtails belong to the genus <em>Setaria<\/em>, and both grow in California. <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/ipm.ucanr.edu\/PMG\/WEEDS\/yellow_foxtail.html\">Yellow foxtail<\/a> (<em>Setaria pumila<\/em>) grows across much of California and is common in northern California.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This weed loves disturbed areas, like roadsides, orchards, cropland, and gardens and is found in the central-western area, Cascade Range, and elevations up to about 3,900 feet in the Sierra Nevada.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Green foxtail (<em>S. viridis<\/em>) also grows in many low-lying and foothill areas of the state.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The name foxtail also covers foxtail barley, a different annual grass on the list of common <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/ucanr.edu\/site\/mg-sonoma\/common-sonoma-county-weeds-home-garden\">Sonoma County weeds<\/a>. Its stiff, barbed awns are hazardous to pets if eaten, inhaled, or lodged in ears.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Foxtails have a cylindrical, hairy seed head with a soft texture.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The inflorescences have spikelets and look like a fox\u2019s tail.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Yellow foxtail has an erect seed stalk, and its flattened stems can reach about 4 feet tall.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"6-annual-bluegrass-poa-annua-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"annual-bluegrass-poa-annua\">Annual bluegrass (<em>Poa annua<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/1024px-Poa_annua_15-p.bot-poa.annua-01-1.jpg\" alt=\"Annual bluegrass (Poa annua)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Annual bluegrass (Poa annua) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Poa_annua_15-p.bot-poa.annua-01.jpg\">Laval University<\/a> | Wikimedia Commons | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\">CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You\u2019ve probably seen annual bluegrass growing in fields and roadsides or your garden, lawn, or other areas of your landscape. It is one of the most common weeds found across California. Annual bluegrass is most prevalent in coastal areas at elevations up to 6,600 feet.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This cool-season winter grass prefers shady yards with high moisture. Annual bluegrass dies back in hot, dry weather.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>It grows up to 6 to 8 inches and has silverish to white-colored seed heads that are typically always visible.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The stems usually bend at the base and the leaves are crinkled closer to the base.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Flowers may be a pale, purple, or green color and sprout between December and July.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"7-bermudagrass-cynodon-dactylon-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"bermudagrass-cynodon-dactylon\">Bermudagrass (<em>Cynodon dactylon<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/512px-Starr-180421-0007-Cynodon_dactylon-habit-Honolua_Lipoa_Point-Maui_43410168462-1.jpg\" alt=\"Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Starr-180421-0007-Cynodon_dactylon-habit-Honolua_Lipoa_Point-Maui_(43410168462).jpg\">Forest and Kim Starr<\/a> | Wikimedia Commons | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\/us\/deed.en\">CC BY 3.0 US<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Although Bermudagrass is one of the most commonly used turfgrasses for lawns, it becomes an unwanted weed when it invades gardens. Warm temperatures and moist weather cause Bermudagrass to grow rapidly. It is found across the Golden State to elevations of approximately 2,900 feet, particularly in the Great Basin area.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Bermudagrass spreads by seeds and stolons, making it difficult to eradicate.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>The stems grow as high as 2 feet.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Leaves are linear and the lower surface is hairy; the upper side is not as hairy.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The inflorescences at the stem tips have 3 to 9 spikes.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">See LawnLove\u2019s guide,<a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-control-weeds-by-type\/\"> How to Control Weeds by Type<\/a>, for management tips.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-crabgrass\/\">How to Get Rid of Crabgrass<\/a><\/p><\/li>    <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-flower-beds\/\">How to Get Rid of Weeds in Flower Beds<\/a><\/p><\/li>    <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/annual-vs-perennial-weeds\/\">How to Control Annual Weeds vs. Perennial Weeds<\/a><\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"8-types-of-broadleaf-weeds-in-california\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"types-of-broadleaf-weeds-in-california\">Types of broadleaf weeds in California<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Broadleaf weeds have wider leaves than grassy weeds, and many are easiest to control while young. David Barbera, president of Artificial Turf Supply in Carlsbad, California, says he has no trouble \u201cremoving broadleaf weeds since I do it manually whenever they sprout.\u201d<\/p>    <h3 id=\"9-prickly-lettuce-lactuca-serriola-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"prickly-lettuce-lactuca-serriola\">Prickly lettuce (<em>Lactuca serriola<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/17304186348_3bc70bf960_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"Prickly lettuce (Lactuca serriola)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Prickly lettuce (Lactuca serriola) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/50697352@N00\/17304186348\">F. D. Richards<\/a> | Flickr | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prickly lettuce is found throughout the state up to elevations of 6,600 feet. It is a winter annual or biennial plant in California, and the winter rains cause this weed to germinate. Prickly lettuce is common across the state and one of the most common weeds in Sonoma County.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Manage this weed by mowing it before the seed matures.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>The small yellow flowers that bloom from April through October look like dandelions.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>When the flowers bloom, the rosette foliage from an immature plant may look damaged or may be missing.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The bottom of the stems can be smooth or have hard bristle-like hairs.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Leaves are deeply lobed with prickly edges.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Mature plants have dark, deeply green colored leaves.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"10-cutleaf-geranium-geranium-dissectum-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"cutleaf-geranium-geranium-dissectum\">Cutleaf geranium (<em>Geranium dissectum<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/1024px-Geranium_dissectum2_W-1.jpg\" alt=\"Cutleaf geranium (Geranium dissectum)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Cutleaf geranium (Geranium dissectum) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Geranium_dissectum2_W.jpg\">Fornax<\/a> | Wikimedia Commons | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/3.0\">CC BY-SA 3.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This weed is found throughout California to approximately 3,900 feet, except for the Great Basin and the deserts. Cutleaf geranium grows in grasslands and can compete with native plants for water and other nutrients.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>The rosette leaves are rounded, palm-shaped, distinctively dissected, and attached to long stalks.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Flower stems appear in the spring, are rough and fuzzy, and grow about 2.5 feet long.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The stem leaves are thinner than the stalk leaves.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Flowers bloom from March through October and have 5 purplish-pink petals that cluster in twos on the stems.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"11-poison-hemlock-conium-maculatum-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"poison-hemlock-conium-maculatum\">Poison hemlock (<em>Conium maculatum<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/3479533871_eded34d1cd_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"Poison hemlock (Conium maculatum)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Poison hemlock (Conium maculatum) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/jkirkhart35\/3479533871\">Jerry Kirkhart<\/a> | Flickr | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Poison hemlock is located throughout the state at elevations of 3,300 feet and less. It is absent from the Modoc Plateau and desert areas. This weed can cause skin irritation, so handle it with gloves.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">All parts of <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/ipm.ucanr.edu\/PMG\/WEEDS\/poison_hemlock.html\">poison hemlock<\/a> are highly toxic to people and animals if eaten. You can control this plant by mowing it before seed development or cutting the stem at the ground.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>This weed looks like carrot and celery plants.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Some poison hemlocks have purple marks on the stem.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The initial true leaves when the plant is young look like parsley leaves.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>When mature, the leaves are triangular and separated into leaflets that are divided multiple times or lobed.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Young and mature foliage smell musty when crushed.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Several small, white, umbrella-shaped flowers cluster at the ends of stems from April through July.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"12-filaree-whitestem-erodium-moschatum-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"filaree-whitestem-erodium-moschatum\">Filaree, whitestem (<em>Erodium moschatum<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/1024px-Erodium_moschatum_L._LHer._AM_AK301429-2-1.jpg\" alt=\"Filaree, whitestem (Erodium moschatum)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Filaree, whitestem (Erodium moschatum) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Erodium_moschatum_(L.)_L%27Her._(AM_AK301429-2).jpg\">Auckland Museum<\/a> | Wikimedia Commons | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/4.0\">CC BY 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Filaree grows close to the ground and can be found throughout California up to about 4,900 feet. It is not usually found in the Great Basin and desert areas. Filaree is a winter annual and in some cases, it is a biennial.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Filarees (<em>Erodium<\/em> spp.) are one of the most common weeds located in southern California.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Pink, lavender, or reddish flowers bloom from about February through May but may appear earlier or later.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Flowers have 5 petals that grow at the tips of the stalk.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Stems are pale green to whitish.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>This weed\u2019s lacy leaves make it an attractive plant.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Leaves are deeply lobed and lie nearly flat on the soil.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Rosette leaves are separated into leaflets.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"13-mallow-malva-parviflora-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"mallow-malva-parviflora\">Mallow (<em>Malva parviflora<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/24671522296_84ae20989c_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"Mallow\/Cheeseweed (Malva parviflora)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Mallow\/Cheeseweed (Malva parviflora) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/starr-environmental\/24671522296\/\">Forest and Kim Starr<\/a> | Flickr | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\/\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This winter annual is also called cheeseweed because its seeds resemble cheese wheels. You may have seen the heart-shaped leaves invading sections of your lawn. It is easier to treat mallow when young because the weed\u2019s taproot is very strong.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But even when young, the taproot makes removal challenging.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mallow grows across the state to an elevation of about 4,900 feet, with the possible exception of the Great Basin. This weed is one of the most prevalent in southern California.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Its hairy green leaves are slightly palm-shaped and grow on erect stems 2 feet long.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The foliage has 5 to 7 shallowly lobed sections.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Small white or pale flowers grow in clusters at the bottom of the leaf stalks.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Flowers are visible almost year-round.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"14-common-groundsel-senecio-vulgaris-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"common-groundsel-senecio-vulgaris\">Common groundsel (<em>Senecio vulgaris<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common groundsel grows across the state at elevations below 4,900 feet, except for deserts. Although it is a winter annual, groundsel can grow year-round in coastal regions. This weed is more troublesome when there are periods of cool and moist weather.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Prolonged hot, dry conditions kill the weed.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Groundsel can outcompete recently planted seeds for necessary nutrients. This plant is toxic to humans and livestock when ingested.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Common groundsel has jagged hairy leaves with toothed edges and yellow flowers that look like daisies.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Flowers are visible almost year-round and develop seed heads that have fuzzy, white floating seeds.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The seed heads also resemble daisy seed heads.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"15-creeping-woodsorrel-oxalis-corniculata-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"creeping-woodsorrel-oxalis-corniculata\">Creeping woodsorrel (<em>Oxalis corniculata<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"480\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Creeping-woodsorrel.jpg\" alt=\"Creeping woodsorrel with heart-shaped leaves and five-petaled yellow flower\" class=\"wp-image-38215\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Creeping-woodsorrel.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Creeping-woodsorrel-300x180.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Creeping-woodsorrel-768x461.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/04\/Creeping-woodsorrel-610x366.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Creeping woodsorrel (Oxalis corniculata) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Oxalis_corniculata_Yellow_Sorrel_%E1%83%A7%E1%83%95%E1%83%98%E1%83%97%E1%83%94%E1%83%9A%E1%83%98_%E1%83%9B%E1%83%9F%E1%83%90%E1%83%95%E1%83%94%E1%83%9A%E1%83%90.JPG\">Lazaregagnidze<\/a> | Wikimedia Commons | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\">CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Creeping woodsorrel grows fast, is very competitive, and persists year-round. It prefers partly shaded lawn areas and beds of low-growing perennial plants. This perennial thrives in well-drained and fertile soil.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Woodsorrel is found throughout the state.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Foliage has 3 heart-shaped lobes.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The leaves and stems may have a reddish look.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Small, bright yellow flowers with 5 petals develop and are present nearly year-round.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"16-common-purslane-portulaca-oleracea-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"common-purslane-portulaca-oleracea\">Common purslane (<em>Portulaca oleracea<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/28842193977_227d7ee169_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"Yellow flower of common purslane (Portulaca oleracea)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Yellow flower of common purslane (Portulaca oleracea) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/74738817@N07\/28842193977\/\">Andreas Rockstein<\/a> | Flickr | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common purslane has thick, fleshy leaves that form a dense mat. This warm-season annual outcompetes other plants by absorbing moisture and light before they reach the ground. Seedlings are unable to receive the water and sunshine needed to grow.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>The mature plant has succulent branches and typically has egg-shaped succulent leaves with a little red around the edges.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The leaves grow opposite one another along the stem.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Yellow, 5-petaled flowers bloom from May through September.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The flowers usually open only from mid-morning to early afternoon when the day is sunny and hot.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"17-white-clover-trifolium-repens-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"white-clover-trifolium-repens\">White clover (<em>Trifolium repens<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/1024px-Trifolium_repens_5154568317.jpg\" alt=\"White clover (Trifolium repens)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">White clover (Trifolium repens) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Trifolium_repens_(5154568317).jpg\">Matt Lavin from Bozeman, Montana<\/a> | Wikimedia Commons | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This creeping perennial weed develops white flowers most of the year, from March through December, that stick out above the turfgrass. The variegated leaves are oval-shaped. This plant is found across California, except for deserts.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Foliage has 3 leaflets.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The weed has branching stems that grow along the ground.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>A cluster of white or light pink flowers resembling the shape of an egg develops from March through December.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"18-italian-thistle-carduus-pycnocephalus-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"italian-thistle-carduus-pycnocephalus\">Italian thistle (<em>Carduus pycnocephalus<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/4694369263_e1052b0e78_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"Italian thistle (Carduus pycnocephalus)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Italian thistle (Carduus pycnocephalus) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/elainegreycats\/4694369263\/\">Elaine with Grey Cats<\/a> | Flickr | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Italian thistle is a noxious weed in California. Some of the areas it grows in include the Central Coast, the San Francisco Bay area, and the southern North Coast. This weed can crowd out native plants, and its sharp spines can deter livestock and wildlife from entering the vicinity.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When the weed is young, it is easily removed by pulling out the taproot. Its wind-blown seeds can survive in the soil for up to 7 years, so pull young <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/ipm.ucanr.edu\/PMG\/WEEDS\/italian_thistle.html\">Italian thistle<\/a> before it flowers.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Rosette leaves are prickly and toothed.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>When the plant is mature, it develops a long spiny shoot.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Small purple or pink flowers cluster in groups of 2 to 5 atop the shoot.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The flower heads have spiny bracts and a rough surface.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Petals bloom from February through July.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"19-field-bindweed-convolvulus-arvensis-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"field-bindweed-convolvulus-arvensis\">Field bindweed (<em>Convolvulus arvensis<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/5257604319_83c15e41b7_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"Flowers of Field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Flowers of Field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/plant_diversity\/5257604319\">Matt Lavin<\/a> | Flickr | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Field bindweed is commonly found in agricultural fields in temperate areas. It is very damaging to crops, especially beans and potatoes. Field bindweed is prevalent in California and grows at elevations up to approximately 5,000 feet.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>This weed has long stems that form a mat on the ground or climb up other plants, like shrubs.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The foliage is shaped like a bell or spade.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>When the plant matures, the leaves are lobed at the base.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>White to purplish-white trumpet-shaped flowers bloom from about April through October.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"20-common-chickweed-stellaria-media-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"common-chickweed-stellaria-media\">Common chickweed (<em>Stellaria media<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/8628380728_bfd3668bb6_c-1.jpg\" alt=\"White flowers of Common chickweed (Stellaria media)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">White flowers of Common chickweed (Stellaria media) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/melanieshawmedicalherbalist\/8628380728\/\">Melanie Shaw<\/a> | Flickr | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nd\/2.0\/\">CC BY-ND 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Chickweed can persist year-round in foggy coastal conditions, but it is mostly a winter annual in the rest of the state. Its habitat is most of California at elevations up to 4,300 feet; chickweed is typically not found in the Mojave Desert.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The weed is one of the most common weeds in Sonoma County.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This weed can carry several pests and diseases that adversely affect many veggie crops. On the other hand, chickweed is a food source for many types of California wildlife and has been used for medicinal purposes for humans.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>It is low-growing and has egg-shaped leaves.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>The stems are green.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Little star-shaped white flowers develop, with petals split like rabbit ears.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h3 id=\"21-dandelion-taraxacum-\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"dandelion-taraxacum\">Dandelion (<em>Taraxacum<\/em>)<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/1024px-2019-04-25_159_Taraxacum_officinale_common_dandelion_at_Haltgraben_Frankenfels_Austria.jpg\" alt=\"Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) Photo Credit: <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:2019-04-25_(159)_Taraxacum_officinale_(common_dandelion)_at_Haltgraben,_Frankenfels,_Austria.jpg\">GT1976<\/a> | Wikimedia Commons | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\">CC BY-SA 4.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dandelions are found all around California up to about 11,000 feet, except in the deserts. This weed is very common in turf and mountain meadows in southern California. Dandelions carry aster yellow disease, which can impact many types of vegetable plants.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But dandelions are also edible. The leaves make bitter salad greens, while the flowers have been used to make wine, and the roots and flowers are used to make tea.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I\u2019ve enjoyed both the salad greens and a root tea after purchasing dandelions from the farmer\u2019s market or herbal shop.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Description:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p>Dandelions have spear-shaped leaves that can be hairy or barely hairy.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p>Yellow flowers sit atop stems and become a white fuzzy ball of bristles dispersed by the wind.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/what-is-chickweed-and-how-to-get-rid-of-it\/\">What Is Chickweed and How to Get Rid of It<\/a><\/p><\/li>    <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/benefits-of-dandelions\/\">Benefits of Dandelions in Your Yard<\/a><\/p><\/li>    <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/remove-dandelions\/\">How to Treat Dandelions in Your Yard<\/a><\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"22-how-to-keep-weeds-out-of-your-california-lawn\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"how-to-keep-weeds-out-of-your-california-lawn\">How to keep weeds out of your California lawn<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best way to <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-prevent-weeds-from-growing\/\">prevent weeds<\/a> is to keep your turf thick and stop weeds before they set seed. A healthy lawn leaves weeds little room to take hold.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><strong>Identify the weed first:<\/strong> Knowing whether it&#8217;s grassy or broadleaf, annual or perennial, tells you which removal method will work.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Pull or mow before seeds mature:<\/strong> Mow prickly lettuce and poison hemlock before they seed, and pull young mallow and Italian thistle before taproots strengthen.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Keep turf thick and healthy:<\/strong> Mow at the right height for your grass, water deeply, and fertilize on schedule so weeds find no bare soil.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Mulch garden beds:<\/strong> A layer of mulch blocks the sunlight weed seeds need to sprout along your lawn&#8217;s edges.<\/p><\/li>    <li><p><strong>Spot-treat persistent perennials:<\/strong> For stubborn weeds like field bindweed and Bermudagrass, spot-treat problem patches or call a lawn care pro.<\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/when-to-fertilize-lawn-california\/\">When to Fertilize Your Lawn in California<\/a><\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 id=\"23-faqs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-17912358981729783\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Is it better to pull weeds when the soil is wet or dry?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Pull weeds when the soil is moist, such as the day after rain or a deep watering, because roots slide out more easily and whole. Dry, compacted soil grips the roots, so stems tend to snap and leave root fragments behind that can regrow.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-17912358981728052\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can you put pulled weeds in the compost?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Compost young weeds that haven&#8217;t flowered, but keep seeding weeds and spreaders like Bermudagrass and field bindweed out of your pile. Most backyard piles don&#8217;t get hot enough to kill seeds and roots, so bag those weeds for your green waste bin instead.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-17912358981727128\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Do a few weeds mean my lawn is unhealthy?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A few weeds don&#8217;t mean your lawn is failing, since wind, birds, and pets carry seeds into even well-kept yards. A sudden spread of weeds is the bigger warning sign, often pointing to thin turf, compacted soil, short mowing, or watering problems.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 id=\"24-let-a-lawnlove-pro-handle-the-weeding\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"let-a-lawnlove-pro-handle-the-weeding\">Let a LawnLove pro handle the weeding<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spotting a weed is just the start. Pulling, mowing, and spot-treating weeds before they seed takes steady effort through every California season.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Take weeding off your to-do list by hiring LawnLove&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/signup-web.lawnlove.com\/cart\/contact-info?intent=fertilization\">local lawn treatment pros<\/a> to identify, remove, and help prevent weeds in your yard.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-grass-types-california\/\">5 Best Grass Types for California Lawns<\/a><\/p><\/li>    <li><p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/california-native-plants\/\">27 California Native Plants<\/a><\/p><\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Photo Credit: Poison hemlock (<em>Conium maculatum<\/em>). <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Conium_maculatum_5435830.jpg\">Eric Coombs, Oregon Department of Agriculture, Bugwood.org<\/a> | Wikimedia Commons | <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0\">CC BY 3.0<\/a><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn the common weeds in California, from crabgrass and foxtail to poison hemlock and mallow, with photos, an ID chart, and tips to keep them out of your lawn.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":87,"featured_media":24011,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[174],"tags":[507,141],"class_list":["post-33818","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-california","tag-lawn-care-ca","tag-weed-control"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/1024px-Portulaca_oleracea_MHNT.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"LaShonda Tucker","author_link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/author\/lashonda-tucker\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33818","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/87"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=33818"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33818\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":49773,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/33818\/revisions\/49773"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/24011"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=33818"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=33818"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=33818"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}