Each year, many North Texas families turn to professional weed control services to help control thistle outbreaks. If you have thistles in your lawn, then you already know what a painful subject they can be, as thistles are covered with prickly protrusions. These can hurt quite a bit when they come into contact with your skin, and you won’t want to walk barefoot on your lawn. Plus, your children won’t want to play outside if there’s a danger of coming into contact with this invader.
How to Eliminate Thistles From Your Lawn
Thistles are hardy and difficult to get rid of, and there’s still more. Some thistle varieties release noxious chemicals into the soil that can curb the growth of other plants, essentially reserving more sunlight, water and nutrients for the thistles.
The roots of the thistle are notoriously tough. Sometimes they can establish an elaborate root network that makes them virtually impossible to control. The good news is that lawn maintenance professionals have the tools to stop thistles from taking over. A well-established, mature thistle may be controlled by being repeatedly cut to the ground. This has to be done several times, but eventually, the plant gives up because it just can’t get the sun it needs.
Applying a herbicide may also be helpful. This is done most effectively late in the summer or the first few weeks of fall. The herbicide is applied directly to the rosettes on the weed, which may ensure that it doesn’t return the following year. A benefit of hiring a weed control professional is their detailed knowledge of the precise timing and application levels required to keep persistent weeds at bay.
Best Techniques for Treating a Severe Thistle Infestation
If you’re dealing with a severe thistle infestation, such as several plants in a section of your yard, we may recommend cutting back and then heavily mulching the area. After several months to one year, this area can be covered with new turf. This method does take time, but it produces excellent results. Some homeowners even leave the mulch in place, putting some soil over it to create a new garden.
Once a thistle is dead or dying, it’s necessary to address the issues that allowed the weed to take root in the first place. The best way to keep thistles out of your grass is by ensuring that your lawn is thick and vigorously healthy. The healthier your lawn, the less likely you are to be bothered by thistles in the future. With high-grade fertilizers, pre-emergent herbicides, regular maintenance and other proven lawn care and weed management practices, you can maintain an attractive, weed-free lawn throughout the year.
Speak With a Weed Control Specialist in North Texas
When you’re having trouble with thistles in your lawn, contact the professionals at Green Top Lawn Care. We provide expert fertilization and weed control services for homes throughout North Texas. Call us at (817) 684-4044 or get a free lawn care quote today.
