Orange County mowing services
Mowing in Orange County, CA
Of all the cut flowers for sale in the US, over half come from California alone. That, of course, means there is no time for weeds! Of the 25,000 plant species in the world, less than five percent are weeds. However, that small percentage can wreak havoc on your property, regardless of whether or not you are commercially producing flowers for sale. As with any plant, flower, or grass, weeds grow best in certain conditions and climates. So if you live in Orange County, how do you know which plants and grass types are "good"?
Common Weeds in Orange County
Weeds in Orange County share many similar characteristics. Therefore, it can be hard to tell them apart. However, there are some clues to look for that can give you a better idea of what weeds you might have on your property. Knowing the weeds you have in your yard is also crucial for determining the best method of weed removal.
- Bindweed
- Lambsquarters
- Pigweed
- Buckhorn plantain
- Crabgrass
- Chickweed
- Dandelion
Bindweed, also called "creeping jenny" or "wild morning-glory," bears a close resemblance to the annual morning glory, which is a popular type of morning glory grown for commercial purposes across the country. Bindweed, however, is distinguishable for its smaller flowers that are less showy than what you'll find with the cultivated morning glory. Their flowers range in color from white to purple and light blue. The stem often has a hairy exterior, and the leaves have a distinctive heart shape. A specific species called the field bindweed is notorious for its deep roots that can extend over 10 feet. A single plant can also grow 10 feet wide in a single growing season. Bindweed is highly adaptable and challenging to eliminate. Therefore, prevention is the best option for eradication. Landscaping fabrics and mulching are good options for controlling its spread and growth.
Lambs quarters is the most common weed in Orange County gardens (and gardens nationwide) says the Weed Science Society of America or WSSA. Lambsquarters is an annual plant that grows quickly. It has small, light seeds that can be easily blown on the wind. They have even survived for decades embedded in the soil. With the right conditions, lambs quarters spreads rapidly. It is particularly problematic for Orange County lawns because it removes critical levels of moisture from the soil. Lambsquarters can be removed using a hoe. It can also be removed by herbicide. However, even though it is a weed, lambs quarters is actually edible. Once removed, it can be sauteed, steamed, or added to a salad for additional flavor.
Pigweed, or amaranth, is another weed. It stands out for its red taproot that is also flesh-like in texture. Pigweed is considered one of the most problematic weeds for its durability and resistance to eradication. Amaranth typically emerges later in spring or early summer. It enjoys warm weather and grows rapidly during the summer. Ideally, it should be eradicated before it starts producing flowers. Applying a layer of mulch in the winter and then gently tilling the garden in spring can eliminate most pigweed. Pigweed is another edible plant. It can be eaten raw, such as in salads, or cooked like spinach.
As the name suggests, Buckhorn plantain is a durable, hardy plant. Its leaves are narrow and straight. If you notice a persistent weed, it might be Buckhorn plantain, as this species grows equally well in any season. Weeding by hand is the best method of eliminating this weed from your garden. Buckhorn plantain is another species that generally reproduces by seed distribution.
Crabgrass is a common weed in Orange County and elsewhere in the US. It typically appears early in the spring when the soil starts to warm up. It is classified as a summertime annual and can reach heights of two feet or more. It reproduces by seeds and by rootings that stem from nodes lying on the ground. Be aware that while some plants might wither in California's long, hot, and dry summers, that is precisely the condition in which Crabgrass grows best. Once planted, the seeds can survive in soil for up to three years before they produce flowers. To control the weed's spread, experts recommend keeping your lawn mowed to a height of 2-4 inches. Crabgrass isn't very competitive as a seedling, which means that if you plant native grasses and flowers, your yard will be much less likely to be at risk from invasion.
Chickweed, Oregon State University notes, comes in two types: common and sticky. Both grow rapidly in gardens, fields, and in lawns with low-maintenance needs. Chickweed is a perennial that spreads quickly. One plant can produce upwards of 800 seeds, which can take up to eight years to eliminate. Chickweed commonly appears in early spring, as it prefers to grow in cool, moist areas. It's especially important to get rid of Chickweed before a growing season, as it can compete against vegetables, fruit, and produce for space and resources.
Dandelion plants may look pretty, but they can cause substantial damage to your lawn. Dandelions are one of the most prevalent and recognizable of all weeds in the US. They are distinguishable for their bright yellow heads and white fluffy tops. The leaves are edible and commonly used in salads. If you prefer not to use pesticides on your property, it is possible to consume dandelions after removing them. The leaves and flowers are both edible, and the flowers can double as decorative pieces for many culinary dishes. You can get rid of dandelions by pulling them out with your hand, taking care to remove the roots, or by applying an herbicide to kill the plant directly.
With its multitude of flowers and prime potential for beautiful properties, there's no reason to let weeds invade your Orange County property. Since weeds can be tricky to eliminate, however, it can take an expert to get rid of them. Fortunately, you can call on Lawn Love, your local gardening experts, to get your yard looking beautiful and prevent unwanted pests today.
