Tulsa weed control services
When winds sweep down Oklahoma's plains, they can mean trouble to homeowners. In addition to warm (or cool) air, those winds also carry seeds that can turn into weeds. However, a little bit of yard maintenance and TLC on your part can keep weeds at bay. It's a win-win situation all around, as you can simultaneously enjoy a healthier and more picturesque property. If you're wondering what kind of weeds might appear in your Oklahoma yard, these are some of the most common.
Common Weeds in Oklahoma
From well-known weeds like crabgrass to invasive plants that are more difficult to detect, be on the lookout for these species that can crop up throughout the year. The type of weed in your yard, Oklahoma State University notes, determines the best fertilizer to use to get rid of it.
- Crabgrass
- Wiregrass
- Foxtails
- Spurge
- Chickweed
- Dallisgrass
- Henbit
Of all the weeds out there, crabgrass is one of the most common. If you're not sure how to identify crabgrass, one way to determine if it's growing in your yard is the season. Crabgrass usually emerges during summertime, which is when most native grasses are dormant or semi-dormant. It can appear as early as May and grow until the last frost. Crabgrass is an annual grass that typically grows in clusters, low to the ground. Another way to distinguish it from other yard grass is the fact that it is lighter green colored. Additionally, crabgrass thrives in full sunlight but doesn't really grow in the shade.
Wiregrass is another weed that's common to Tulsa. Wiregrass is also a low-growing weed. It appears in a matted shape with a silvery-white hue. It can also take on a pale green color. Wiregrass is a durable weed that can withstand heavy foot traffic and mowing. Its flower stalks are typically stout and short. Its seed heads are stiff and short. This grass has an extensive root network and thrives in compact soils. It requires minimal water to survive, and it can tolerate drought and heat. Growth can be curtailed by applying herbicide in springtime.
Foxtails stand out for their long stalks and large seed heads. They have coarse, grainy textures and form tufts when established in lawns. Foxtails typically appear a bit later than crabgrass. They also grow through the summer months when there is less competition for nutrients and water. Consistent mowing and applying a nitrogen-based fertilizer can keep foxtail populations under control. Foxtails have a yellow-green stalk and golden-colored seed heads.
Spurge is an annual weed that grows in the summer. Each plant can produce thousands of seeds. They can be hard to eliminate, as the seeds can lay dormant for several years. If the plant does not start growing in the summer, its seeds remain dormant through winter and emerge in spring. Moderate moisture levels are ideal for spurge to grow. It thrives in a temperature range of 75ºF - 85ºF but can grow in temperatures ranging from 60ºF to 100ºF. Depending on the year's weather patterns, spurge's seeds can germinate anytime between February and September.
Chickweed is another weed that grows around Tulsa. It has several other names too, including satin flower, tongue grass, winter weed, and starweed. It is an herbaceous plant that unlike many weeds in the Tulsa area, grows best in cooler temperatures. Chickweed also requires a moderate to heavy amount of moisture to thrive. This weed usually appears in the spring or fall. It lays dormant in the summer when temperatures are higher. Chickweed's stems are smooth and oval-like in shape. The plant's stems are freely branching.
Dallisgrass is a perennial characterized by a light green color. The weed has long seed heads extending from its top. This species grows successfully in wetlands, swamps, and other areas that receive higher volumes of rainfall. Dallisgrass also prefers to have a warmer climate for optimal growth. The best way to eradicate this species is to apply a pre-emergence fertilizer that prevents the seeds from growing and germinating in the first place. The fertilizer can usually be applied later in the spring season. If the weeds are already established, they can be removed by pulling out the stems and roots with your hand. The soil can then be re-seeded with an identical or similar grass to what is already growing in your own yard.
Although Henbit produces picturesque flowers, it is still nevertheless classified as a weed. Henbit has vertical stems that rise nearly 12 inches above the ground. Its flowers range from either a pink hue to a darker purple. Henbit is closely related to the purple deadnettle. However, the deadnettle appears as a redder color. Henbit's growth can be controlled primarily by the herbicide. Applying the herbicide to the plant in autumn is the best way to eradicate the speeds.
Landmarks and Attractions in Tulsa
Once you've got your lawn under control, you have more free time to check out Tulsa. If you're wondering "what can I do in the city today?", here are a few notable options.
Philbrook Museum of Art
This museum is housed in a historic mansion set on a picturesque property. The ornate landscaping is just as appealing as the beautiful collection of artwork inside. Peaceful gardens complete the quaint scene.
Blue Whale
Even though it's far from the ocean, one of Tulsa's most notable attractions is the Blue Whale. The whale, constructed in the early 1970s, sits right along the side of Route 66. If you're looking for a unique photo op in town, this is the place to go.
Turkey Mountain
On a beautiful day in Tulsa, you'll probably want to get outside and explore. Turkey Mountain, a natural area with woods, hiking trails, and mountain biking opportunities, is one of the most popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.
Maintaining a yard in Tulsa can be challenging if you don't know how to spot or manage harmful weeds. Fortunately, Lawn Love can easily offer assistance to get your yard in top shape. As your local lawn care experts, we want your yard to look its best year-round. Call us today to learn more about our services.
