Weeds can be a significant challenge for maintaining a beautiful lawn. This guide covers the most common weeds in Utah, helping you identify and manage them effectively.

Broadleaf Weeds

Black Medic

Resembling clover, Black Medic is an annual weed that thrives in compacted soil and areas with low nitrogen. The small, yellow flowers and trifoliate leaves are its distinguishing features. Effective control involves aeration and multiple applications of broadleaf herbicides.

Chickweed

This annual ground cover has small white flowers and forms dense mats, often in shaded, moist areas. It can quickly take over if not managed. Preventative herbicide applications and consistent weed control measures are essential to keep chickweed at bay.

Clover

Clover is a persistent perennial weed that grows well in nitrogen-deficient soil. It features trifoliate leaves and small white or pink flowers. Addressing soil fertility issues and applying broadleaf herbicides repeatedly can help control clover.

Creeping Bellflower

This perennial weed is recognized by its tall stalks and bell-shaped purple flowers. It thrives in dry, clay-heavy soil and spreads via rhizomes. Regular application of weed killers and improving soil health can help manage Creeping Bellflower.

Dandelion

A common perennial weed, Dandelion is easily identified by its bright yellow flowers and deep taproot. It can be challenging to eradicate once established. Effective control involves applying herbicides in the early growth stages before seeds spread.

Dock

Dock weeds have large, crinkled leaves and grow in moist, poorly-drained soil. They produce a tall flowering stalk in the summer. Multiple herbicide treatments are often necessary for complete elimination.

Field Bindweed (Morning Glory)

Field Bindweed is a vine with white, trumpet-shaped flowers. It’s a perennial that spreads aggressively and requires persistent herbicide treatments and mechanical removal when young to manage.

Henbit

Henbit is an annual weed with distinctive purple flowers and square stems. It prefers cool, moist environments. Broadleaf weed sprays can effectively control Henbit.

Kochia

Kochia is an annual weed that turns into tumbleweed. It has dense, bushy foliage and can be toxic to livestock. Early application of pre-emergent herbicides is crucial for controlling Kochia.

Mallow

Mallow weeds have hexagonal leaves and a deep taproot. This annual weed can be controlled effectively with broadleaf herbicide applications.

Mullein

A biennial or perennial with large, velvety leaves and tall flowering stalks topped with yellow flowers, Mullein can be managed with regular broadleaf weed sprays.

Oxalis

Oxalis is a perennial that resembles clover with yellow flowers and thrives in sunny areas. It requires multiple herbicide applications for effective control.

Pigweed

This annual weed has shiny leaves and can grow up to six feet tall. Pigweed spreads rapidly, and pre-emergent sprays are effective in managing its growth.

Plantain

Plantain weeds have broad, oval leaves and form dense rosettes. They spread quickly across lawns, and broadleaf weed sprays are necessary for control.

Puncture Vine

Known for its sharp, spiny seeds, Puncture Vine can be a nuisance in lawns. It requires strong chemical treatments or solarization to eliminate.

Purslane

Purslane is an annual succulent with fleshy stems and leaves. It is edible but can be invasive. Weed sprays and pre-emergent treatments are effective for control.

Red Sorrell

This perennial has arrow-shaped leaves with a lemony flavor. Multiple herbicide treatments are necessary to manage Red Sorrell.

Shepherd’s Purse

An annual weed with small white flowers and heart-shaped seed pods, Shepherd’s Purse can be controlled with broadleaf weed sprays.

Spurge

Spurge is an annual weed with oblong leaves and pinkish flowers. Pre-emergent sprays and regular weed control are effective.

Thistle

Thistle is a tall annual with spiny leaves and purple flowers. It requires a combination of mechanical removal and herbicide treatments.

Violets

Though attractive, Violets can become invasive perennials. Non-selective weed control methods are effective for eradication.

Whitetop (Pepperwood)

Whitetop is a perennial with white, clustered flowers. It spreads rapidly and is best controlled with targeted herbicide applications in late spring.

Yarrow

Yarrow is a perennial with feathery leaves and small, white flower clusters. It requires consistent treatment to manage effectively.

Weed Grasses

Crabgrass

An annual grass, Crabgrass is manageable with pre-emergent herbicides and regular lawn maintenance. It thrives in hot, dry conditions.

Goosegrass

Similar to Crabgrass, Goosegrass is an annual that requires preventative sprays for control. It has a silvery-white base and folded leaf blades.

Perennial Weed Grasses

These include Bermuda Grass, Foxtail, Nimblewill, Orchard Grass, Quack Grass, and Tall Fescue. They are often more difficult to control and may require non-selective herbicides and careful removal.

For professional lawn care services and personalized weed management plans, contact J&C Pro Lawn Care for a free estimate and expert assistance.