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Growing an herb garden in your kitchen window is a simple task for Dallas, TX residents. Herbs have been used for centuries to flavor food and for medicinal purposes. Dishes wouldn’t taste the same without herbs to create unique flavor combinations. Learning how to start an herb garden in your kitchen is surprisingly easy. Most […]
\n","content":"\nGrowing an herb garden in your kitchen window is a simple task for Dallas, TX residents. Herbs have been used for centuries to flavor food and for medicinal purposes. Dishes wouldn’t taste the same without herbs to create unique flavor combinations. Learning how to start an herb garden in your kitchen is surprisingly easy.
Most herbs grow exceptionally well in Dallas, TX, so you could start the herbs inside and put them outside later if you wanted. Some people like to have herbs inside and outside!
Spring is the best time of year to start indoor herb gardens! So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
\n\n\n\nA majority of the herb plants you could grow desire full sun, and that is the trickiest part about growing herbs inside. You need to find a spot in your kitchen that receives enough sunlight. Herbs prefer six to eight hours of direct sunlight.
Most people find that a south-facing windowsill has the best exposure for maximum sunlight. You can get suction cup window shelves if your windows lack a windowsill or there is no space for a table.
If you’re unable to find an appropriate location in your house, you’ll either have to pick a few herbs that tolerate less sunlight or hang a grow light in your kitchen. You can find small grow light setups for relatively cheap that could set right on your kitchen countertop!
Some people prefer to grow herbs inside because you can move the plants around! When you grow them outside, they’re stuck in the ground, but you can move them from window to window, if you wanted, to ensure they receive the right sunlight. Indoor herbs often receive ample sunlight!
\n\n\n\nNot only does sunlight matter, but temperature does as well! Herbs need to be kept between 65 and 70 degrees, which is perfect for most homes. Take care when you place your herb in the windowsill. Hang a thermometer there a few days before you place your herbs there. You want to make sure the window sill or whatever area you select is the ideal temperature!
\n\n\n\nDue to the climate in Dallas, TX, you can grow a lot of herbs! If you plan to always keep them indoors, you could grow anything, but it’s a good idea to make sure the herbs you do plant grow well in your climate. That way, if you decide you want to transplant it outside, you can!
Some herbs you might want to grow in your Dallas, TX indoor herb garden include:
\n\n\n\nIf you can’t find a window or location that receives full sunlight, shade-tolerant herbs for Dallas, TX residents include:
\n\n\n\nHeirloom varieties are often the hardiest varieties. Look for heirloom plants that thrive in a climate similar to Dallas, TX. Head to a local farm and fleet stores to see what varieties local farmers might sell. These plants are adapted to your area and will give you the best results.
\n\n\n\nAll of your containers should have drainage holes and a saucer. If you do pick a sealed pot, place rocks at the base of the pot along with some vermiculite in the soil. These will increase the drainage in your sealed container. It’s best to pick containers with drainage if possible.
\n\n\n\nAn indoor herb garden needs a potting soil mixture that has additional drainage. The label should tell you that it’s appropriate for indoor garden plants. If the soil is too heavy, try adding some perlite or vermiculite to the mixture.
You should look for a potting mixture rather than a potting soil. A mixture is lighter and has an aerator like perlite already added to it. If you can’t find the mixture, then just adapt the soil to work!
Whatever you do, don’t go outside and use the dirt from your outside garden. It seems like a smart idea, but the soil in your Dallas, TX garden is going to be too compact for indoor growing. It won’t hold onto water for as long, leading to insufficient root growth. Plus, you’ll bring in insects and parasites found outside. Not a good idea!
\n\n\n\nYou don’t have to water and fertilize too much. Doing so is just as harmful as not doing enough! Mark when you fertilized and watered your plants so you don’t overdo it, or you can create a schedule. More inside plants die because of excessive water and fertilizer than not enough!
To determine if your herb needs water, test the soil by placing your finger into it. If it’s dry two inches below the surface, then it’s time to water. The top of the soil dries out first. Watering too soon doesn’t encourage the roots of the herbs to grow deeper into the pot searching for water. A healthy root system creates a healthy plant, so that’s your goal.
\n\n\n\nDon’t harvest your plants until they’re matured for the first time. Then, never harvest more than one-third of the plant at any given time. Make sure that one third grows back before you harvest again.
It’s a good idea to look up each herb you intend to grow and learn about its specific pruning needs. Herbs grow best when pruned properly. You’ll be surprised out large and rapidly they can grow in the right conditions!
\n\n\n\nAll Dallas resident should have an indoor herb garden in their kitchen! It’s incredibly easy! Your first step is to find out what location receives the most sunlight. Then, decide what herbs you want to grow and prepare your containers. Plant your herbs and wait for them to mature. Before you know it, you’ll have fresh herbs in all of your dishes!
\n\n\n\nNeed lawn care advice? Check out our Dallas lawn care guide for helpful tips and tricks.
\n","title":"Dallas Residents: Here’s How to Start an Herb Garden in Your Kitchen","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/1789c/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/107df/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.jpg 320w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/293e9/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.jpg 500w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/f2cbb/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.jpg 800w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/1789c/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.jpg 960w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/b56d2/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.jpg 4086w","srcWebp":"/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/1dd6e/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/67b76/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.webp 320w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/8df11/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.webp 500w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/98a65/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.webp 800w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/1dd6e/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.webp 960w,\n/static/cf1e9b44c324675e0378a18eda1501d3/002d3/herb_garden_lawnstarter1.webp 4086w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Dallas Residents: Here's How to Start an Herb Garden in Your Kitchen | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"625c266a-eafa-5ef4-9a42-859530b41c03","slug":"raleigh-nc-water-restrictions","path":"/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/raleigh-nc-water-restrictions/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Bob Greenly has been mowing and caring for lawns since he was 12 years old. His summer job turned into a permanent career after college when he opened his own landscaping company.","name":"Bob Greenly","id":"86622de6-1450-5165-836f-e7397d91491b","path":"/author/bob-greenly/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/38ceb71a8b949ee91fe8f7d81c04ccde?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"},{"id":"960004f5-f837-5b2c-8241-8a86613fdf92","name":"Raleigh","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/"}],"date":"June 28th, 2019","excerpt":"Water is one of our most precious natural resources, that’s why many cities and counties put restrictions on lawn watering. The lawn watering restrictions in Raleigh are based on current drought conditions and often change, depending on the current weather patterns. The majority of Raleigh’s water comes from Falls Lake Reservoir in northern Wake County. […]
\n","content":"\nWater is one of our most precious natural resources, that’s why many cities and counties put restrictions on lawn watering. The lawn watering restrictions in Raleigh are based on current drought conditions and often change, depending on the current weather patterns.
\n\n\n\nThe majority of Raleigh’s water comes from Falls Lake Reservoir in northern Wake County. The water is treated at the E.M. Johnson Water Treatment Plant, which process and distributes more than 48 million gallons of water per day.
\n\n\n\nOur area has had a few years of plenty of rainfall along with two watersheds for our community. As of mid-2019, there are no watering restrictions in Wake County, but that could change if we see some of the dry conditions plaguing the southern end of the state. Check the U.S. drought map regularly to see which areas are hurting. The city will also update its website if it becomes necessary to issue restrictions.
The city encourages everyone to practice permanent conservation measures. Under these measures, lawn watering anytime is permitted, but landscapes should receive only 1 inch of water per week. These voluntary guidelines should keep the reservoir from falling to a dangerously low level:
\n\n\n\nThe city has a series of trigger points for imposing restrictions, based on the level of the Falls Lake Reservoir and the time of year. For example, if levels drop below 65 percent of capacity in June, the city will put stage 1 restrictions in place. That means you’ll only be able to water your lawn once a week on a day designated by whether your address ends in an odd or even number. If the reservoir levels should fall below 30 percent in June, stage 3 restrictions go into place. In that case, all lawn watering (even the city’s athletic fields) is off limits.
\n\n\n\nViolating the city’s water restrictions could cost you a fine of up to $500.
\n\n\n\nThe city also offers a reuse water program that treats wastewater into reclaimed or nonpotable water. This helps lower the effect of a drought for homeowners who use this water for their lawns and gardens. The reuse water is not for human, pet, or livestock consumption.
\n\n\n\nYou can get recycled water at the Neuse River Resource Recovery Facility, in Southeast Raleigh, or at the facility at Little Creek WWTP in Zebulon. The reuse water is free, but you’ll have to complete a certification training before picking it up.
\n\n\n\nTaking advantage of the city’s reuse water program is a great way to keep your lawn hydrated even during a severe drought. Cutting down on your lawn size and choosing to xeriscape is another way to decrease your water consumption. Remember, in times of drought, you can do without.
Interested in more information about gardening or lawn care in Raleigh? Visit our Raleigh, N.C., lawn care page.
\n","title":"Raleigh, NC Watering Restrictions","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5041128084606346,"src":"/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/1789c/sprinkler-pixabay.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/107df/sprinkler-pixabay.jpg 320w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/293e9/sprinkler-pixabay.jpg 500w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/f2cbb/sprinkler-pixabay.jpg 800w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/1789c/sprinkler-pixabay.jpg 960w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/356ef/sprinkler-pixabay.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/1dd6e/sprinkler-pixabay.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/67b76/sprinkler-pixabay.webp 320w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/8df11/sprinkler-pixabay.webp 500w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/98a65/sprinkler-pixabay.webp 800w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/1dd6e/sprinkler-pixabay.webp 960w,\n/static/d1f101daa61a8270f91499b0762610b0/93f70/sprinkler-pixabay.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Raleigh, NC Watering Restrictions | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"0eccde0b-5cfd-55ed-a957-e6374546393e","slug":"water-restrictions-austin-round-rock-texas","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/water-restrictions-austin-round-rock-texas/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Bradley is a botanist who experiments with native plants from every region in the U.S. She’s dedicated to companion planting without the use of pesticides. Her own garden is filled with a variety of colors and textures.","name":"Danielle Bradley","id":"7329a804-3158-5b9f-94fc-835a4923557a","path":"/author/danielle-bradley/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a840af9ee5b616963d15a622658e9612?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c823f674-c750-5882-9059-d8c27fbe7e1d","name":"Austin","count":19,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/austin/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 28th, 2019","excerpt":"People in the Austin area enjoy mild winters in a city that offers endless opportunities for entertainment and recreation. But the mellow winters come at a price: extreme summer temperatures that come saddled with water restrictions. These regulations can leave homeowners feeling like they have to choose between a healthy lawn and hefty fines. Read […]
\n","content":"\nPeople in the Austin area enjoy mild winters in a city that offers endless opportunities for entertainment and recreation. But the mellow winters come at a price: extreme summer temperatures that come saddled with water restrictions. These regulations can leave homeowners feeling like they have to choose between a healthy lawn and hefty fines. Read on for a guide to water restrictions in Austin/Round Rock.
\n\n\n\nNo matter how much rain Central Texas receives, water restrictions are typically imposed in summer, when the water levels in lakes Travis and Buchanan — the area’s sources of potable water — fall under a specified level.
\n\n\n\nThe restrictions are based on a few variables, including property type, watering method, and property address. Here’s a breakdown of the water restriction stages:
\n\n\n\nAt this point, water use is severely restricted. Your plants are on their own, as all outdoor irrigation is prohibited.
\n\n\n\nAlso banned at this stage are all car washing, patio misting equipment and power washers. You can’t refill your pool. Ornamental fountains have to be turned off, too, unless doing so would kill aquatic life.
\n\n\n\nWater restrictions are no joke, and enforcement is fairly common. In Stage 2, residential violations get slapped with a $75 fine the first time around. Fines go up to $500 for the fourth violation in a year.
\n\n\n\nThe higher the stage, the higher the fine. In Stage 4, the fourth violation will cost as much as $2,000.
\n\n\n\nWhile water restrictions are nothing to scoff at, the reality is that most yards don’t need more than a deep watering every five days. Landscapes can be drought-proofed by using xeriscaping and installing native landscape plants. You may also consider a rain barrel to harvest rainwater as well as reducing your garden watering in lean times.
\n\n\n\nYes, the schedules can be daunting. The good news is that after a season of generous rain, it’s unlikely the area will go past conservation level restrictions this year. Remember: water conservation is not a punishment, but rather an agreement we all make to preserve our most vital natural resource.
If you’re not sure about whether there are currently water restrictions in your area, check the Austin or Round Rock websites.
Interested in learning more about gardening and lawn care in Austin? Visit our Austin TX lawn care page.
\n\n\n\nMain image credit: Lower Colorado River Authority.
\n","title":"Water Restrictions in Austin, Round Rock, Texas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4912280701754386,"src":"/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/73f1e/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.jpg","srcSet":"/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/107df/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.jpg 320w,\n/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/293e9/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.jpg 500w,\n/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/f2cbb/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.jpg 800w,\n/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/73f1e/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.jpg 850w","srcWebp":"/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/05ed0/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/67b76/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.webp 320w,\n/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/8df11/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.webp 500w,\n/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/98a65/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.webp 800w,\n/static/15fd760d99b449fc88b8229fa678b0b2/05ed0/Drought_Lake-Travis_05162011_0090.webp 850w","sizes":"(max-width: 850px) 100vw, 850px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Water Restrictions in Austin, Round Rock, Texas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"8d4fc8e1-df88-5d3f-b3d3-7fe18bec1c5e","slug":"controlling-the-worst-weeds-in-austin","path":"/lawn-care/tx/austin/controlling-the-worst-weeds-in-austin/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Danielle Bradley is a botanist who experiments with native plants from every region in the U.S. She’s dedicated to companion planting without the use of pesticides. Her own garden is filled with a variety of colors and textures.","name":"Danielle Bradley","id":"7329a804-3158-5b9f-94fc-835a4923557a","path":"/author/danielle-bradley/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/a840af9ee5b616963d15a622658e9612?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c823f674-c750-5882-9059-d8c27fbe7e1d","name":"Austin","count":19,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/austin/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"June 28th, 2019","excerpt":"Texans fight an uphill battle against the climate to maintain lush, green lawns. While we get wrapped up in mortal combat against scorching heat and epic droughts, another foe wages a battle against us: weeds. Unlike our turf, weeds couldn’t care less when it comes to drought, heat, and neglect. In fact, the conditions that […]
\n","content":"\nTexans fight an uphill battle against the climate to maintain lush, green lawns. While we get wrapped up in mortal combat against scorching heat and epic droughts, another foe wages a battle against us: weeds. Unlike our turf, weeds couldn’t care less when it comes to drought, heat, and neglect. In fact, the conditions that kill the landscapes we love only make them stronger. Once we let down our guard, they sprout and spread. Once these invaders have made landfall, our only hope is to stop them from advancing. Here are some tips for controlling the worst weeds in Austin.
\n\n\n\nThe best defense against weeds is a vigorous lawn, since that makes it challenging for weeds to gain traction. Your yard is only as safe as its weakest patch of grass. Weeds are opportunists looking for a bare spot where they can put down roots and establish themselves. A number of weeds are waiting for their chance to pounce, but they tend to leave mowed, fertilized, healthy turf alone. Most weeds won’t withstand regular mowing. Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, and Saint Augustinegrass all enjoy Austin’s hot, humid summers and with proper care will form a dense mat that resists the enemy.
\n\n\n\nWhen you see weeds invading your lawn, don’t look the other way. Once you allow a weed to go to seed, your front line is compromised, and you’ll have to spend a season working offense. To avoid this, when you spot a weed poking up through the turf, immediately remove it from the roots. String trimmers, aka “weed whackers” are only a temporary fix because when roots remain in the ground, the weed can pop right back up to fight another day.
\n\n\n\nDrop your weeds in the trash to make sure they don’t make a comeback – some weeds can regenerate if you just cast them aside on your lawn.
\n\n\n\nDeveloping a strong knowledge of the weeds you’re fighting will help you defeat them. The main categories of noxious weeds in Austin are broadleaf weeds and grass-like weeds. Each requires different techniques to defeat.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/IsgL9UTVcXYiG-Mh6w7Kc1qCFfvk5PrGkBaWPso3caR8nai1A70zBNtdaTQeYgvqL-rNnn_6t7AP4pHzVcxBI26_lXxaucrFhflVv2smJkk3nS92--Zaph_tgRlfIDSMQcKfj0Qm\")
Dandelions can be either biennial or perennial but usually burst into full bloom in late spring or early summer. The dandelion’s distinctive appearance makes it easy to identify. There are multiple effective ways to win the war against dandelions. The easiest is to mow often before the flowers have gone to seed. Next, pull them up by the roots. Finally, apply a selective weed killer directly to the plants.
\n\n\n\n![\"Thistle,](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/qHn9KZc9lDtiEA5267GRUtB-oIoQlpfG2Dv6FHv4nF75V7VCMpsrrKzLuQFjg8ZZZ5MYG16qOc-2fTlA_58kcF5FZTyNhc7J8kVM50XYpUzTQvJNBeqlqiMZGnjVbSvmcTtnrpzw\")
Thistles are weeds that can also be either biennial or perennial and can be very tough to fight once established. They can reach a height of several feet and can take up the whole lawn if you let them. Though stubborn, this is one weed that’s easy to control: cut to the ground with a hoe or pull up from the roots. Just remember to bag up the thistle you cut, as they will go to seed wherever they land.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/pyatElKLY5M6EkIRFnfo51BPhVGY4H2Dh69MwmyArT2GulzmGokAtyuHsvYJ5Y7LBtzIarQz9FOp1G9YsbIDdFJ9JEy6KABlmJJDawfXDDaIzJ-vgwmwc8mOyQNqsxZj0hi-2uvU\")
The bane of all homeowners and turf managers, crabgrass is a vigorous weed that thrives under the conditions that kill everything else. It grows flat along the ground, and this low profile allows it to stealthily spread right under the cutting line of mowers. The best way to fight this weed is to apply a pre-emergent weed control treatment at the end of winter before the ground warms.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/iTLOWhTYZYDd_wE23vvq10Pf75B1R4E_1dT7uvhiHpQWB49xqd5jXscCs76jbih_Rv63KujmMW34RzrejlczNuOAexyP44G18srUtvVCJXeViOR1S9pdSUXw4hvpNMeC-YtW3Ozd\")
This warm-season annual grass is tough as nails – mature blades are difficult to cut with a mower if the blades are not razor sharp. Although the first frost of the winter will kill the plants, each plant can produce up to 50,000 seeds. The best method for limiting their expansion is to apply a pre-emergent in the weeks before it sprouts.
\n\n\n\nThe war against weeds is the longest-running battle in human history. Even the most vigilant homeowner finds weeds in their turf from time to time. So keep your eyes peeled and your battle gear handy, because you never know when the weeds will find you.
\n\n\n\nInterested in learning more about gardening and lawn care in Austin? Visit our Austin TX lawn care page.
Many people move to Raleigh for the mild and short winters. These winters, combined with hot and humid conditions the rest of the year, create the perfect breeding ground for a number of insects. Backyard pests, including the ones that bite, can scare us out of our backyard and into the house. It’s even worse […]
\n","content":"\nMany people move to Raleigh for the mild and short winters. These winters, combined with hot and humid conditions the rest of the year, create the perfect breeding ground for a number of insects.
\n\n\n\nBackyard pests, including the ones that bite, can scare us out of our backyard and into the house. It’s even worse if you suffer allergic reactions to the bites and stings. Knowing what to watch out for, and how to help get rid of these pesky insects, is vital in keeping you and your family safe. Here’s a list of the worst backyard pest in Raleigh and how to control them.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ZTkij3KXZbe4Q85z30z5EYKtvnOqlt8xo5Feh5I4O6pbJ0O-l3B94EsWINd5BzBtlL1KW9P4D5znrVknFoanAQYaeYXckJ_NvGh8O6WKZTxlQzVCeRBSjKEEvXbef6RIZ1_0lIyj\")
Any environment that’s moist and humid will experience the onslaught of mosquitoes. Raleigh is a mosquito magnet and the perfect spot for these backyard pests to both breed and thrive. Mosquitoes are not just a nuisance. They’re the deadliest creature on the planet, spreading diseases such as West Nile virus and malaria. At the very least, getting a mosquito bite causes itching for days.
\n\n\n\nHelp keep your backyard free of these bloodsuckers by eliminating standing water in your yard. Bird baths, children’s toys and even uneven ground levels can harbor enough standing water for mosquitoes to lay eggs. Mosquito traps are a good investment since they can kill hundreds of bugs in a single night. Natural guards, like citronella candles work. Even better? Plant insect repelling plants such as lavender, mint and rosemary. The scent of these herbs really bugs bugs.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/IQX6moIurvfeoJqI3695yv3qNrYf1Jn1rGZBT0eapI7LO09GiD-0lFLl_m7MTgrHa-FkdHlthimE9Q7x0ObAPy10jE0vsqPDz45MjRZNaIAYpME0z61dfx98Igi3tvvumDhlLY3i\")
While some of the worst backyard pests are native to the Raleigh area, fire ants are an unwanted visitor that has outstayed its welcome. These pests hitchhiked aboard a cargo ship from Brazil. You’ll know that you have them in the backyard when you see dome-shaped dirt mounds in the yard. Fire ants are reddish-brown and can grow up to one-third of an inch long. North Carolina is being swarmed with these pests, and currently, 71 counties in our area of the state are seeing infestations. If you step on one of their mounds, you’ll see an onslaught of them come out to bite and sting you. could be deadly for small pets and young children who are allergic to the stings.
\n\n\n\nThey’re also attracted to motorized equipment and electrical boxes and can cause thousands of dollars in damage. You can spray the hills with insecticidal spray or use a bait that will kill the ants and their queen from within the mound. You’ll need to continue applying the bait all summer.
\n\n\n\nMost flies around the country are just annoying pests. However, our part of the country has the added issue of biting flies. These flies not only hover around trashy areas, they’re out for blood. Black flies are quite dangerous in our area due to their swarming capabilities. A swarm can quickly cause a lot of damage to both pets and family members.
\n\n\n\nA smaller version of biting flies is biting midges, also called no-see-ums. They’re tough to spot but easy to feel. Biting midges love the warm weather and always seem to show up in time to ruin that backyard party.
\n\n\n\nYour best defense is insect repellant. Wearing light colored and long-sleeved clothing also helps discourage the flies from seeing you as a target. Yard and garden insect sprays help, but only for a few hours. Since they hover around garbage, keep your yard free of trash and debris.
\n\n\n\nWhile mosquitoes and biting flies bug us, they usually leave the garden alone. A gardener’s worst enemies include aphids, Colorado potato bugs, and azalea lace bugs.
\n\n\n\n![\"Aphid,](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/nNCTxw17oL5Bqf4LrvIvQLRtp-bMv6W3-1gF5Rwb0OlXfJJfRtbo6uwv0byQnQqfjtVHp8woPjWmUEfpehPt_oahIrGfRh3MgsG51Q1nP67AUqJifRjJAxOJPGvEIaiEifQFAVCv\")
These yellow and green bugs blend in with the leaves and stems of your plants and suck the sap out of the leaves and fruits. You can get rid of them by introducing ladybugs and lacewings into your garden. Petunias will also repel these pests.
\n\n\n\n![\"Insect,](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/le8D9QQr8zuinv7llVtQ5Mc9d9fLY5HwiDXgZADRE3p97PwuwE8OQjEus-P53Pktl92bcSClSV7Y_eOpw30Z2vuRWTt07ro0Es-tNBzSV1GoEhIZ63J87A619S-iA33jNXx2FhuX\")
These critters look a bit like ladybugs but are extremely destructive to your petunias, potatoes, and tomatoes. Planting cilantro nearby and using a neem oil spray can help keep these bugs at bay.
\n\n\n\nNorth Carolina is home to more than 30 species of lace bugs, and most are not considered pests. The azalea lace bug is the exception since it attacks our native azalea plants. You’ll know you have a problem when you start to see white or silver spots on the leaves. You want to spray the plant with an insecticide at the beginning of spring, just as the females are laying eggs.
\n\n\n\nThese are just a sample of the backyard pests that can ruin your garden and your time outdoors. Plan ahead, and treat your lawn and garden before the worst of the pests arrive in Raleigh.
\n\n\n\nDo you have questions about lawn care and gardening in Raleigh? Visit our Raleigh, NC, lawn care page.
\n","title":"Worst Backyard Pests in Raleigh and How to Control Them","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.8064516129032258,"src":"/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/0c28a/adult-black-fly.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/107df/adult-black-fly.jpg 320w,\n/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/293e9/adult-black-fly.jpg 500w,\n/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/0c28a/adult-black-fly.jpg 672w","srcWebp":"/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/c5ec9/adult-black-fly.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/67b76/adult-black-fly.webp 320w,\n/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/8df11/adult-black-fly.webp 500w,\n/static/f8a54eb638e1fe1ea8a45f79e4aa1bf1/c5ec9/adult-black-fly.webp 672w","sizes":"(max-width: 672px) 100vw, 672px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Worst Backyard Pests in Raleigh and How to Control Them | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"0781fce9-f353-5048-8b9d-85b655d931f0","slug":"worst-weeds","path":"/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/worst-weeds/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Lydian Pine is a creative writer and studio artist whose work first debuted in a short story anthology. She graduated from the University of North Texas in 2020 and enjoys video games, theatre, and swimming. Lately, she has started to study entomology as a hobby.","name":"Lydian Pine","id":"3478d9b1-e85b-5e4a-860b-443c62d1e29c","path":"/author/lydian-pine/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/f31ce7919bd939bc1f102cee2f3304d2?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0946c7b5-fa0e-522f-b876-ff6b33c2d842","name":"North Carolina","count":17,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/"},{"id":"960004f5-f837-5b2c-8241-8a86613fdf92","name":"Raleigh","count":6,"path":"/category/lawn-care/nc/raleigh/"}],"date":"June 28th, 2019","excerpt":"Small weeds indicate larger problems in your Raleigh lawn. The most effective prevention method is understanding the pesky weeds so you can eradicate them. Discover the 18 worst weeds in Raleigh and how to get rid of them. Why Are Weeds Bad for Your Raleigh Lawn? Weeds drain nutrients from your lawn, signifying underlying problems […]
\n","content":"\nSmall weeds indicate larger problems in your Raleigh lawn. The most effective prevention method is understanding the pesky weeds so you can eradicate them. Discover the 18 worst weeds in Raleigh and how to get rid of them.
\n\n\n\nWeeds drain nutrients from your lawn, signifying underlying problems like low nitrogen, imbalanced pH, and thinning turf. Maintain a healthy lawn with routine maintenance, watering, and fertilization schedules, and the weeds won’t stand a chance. Here are some reasons weed control is important:
\n\n\n\nThere are two ways to control weeds in your lawn: chemical treatments and hand pulling. Pulling weeds by hand is the safest removal method, but it isn’t always the best. Be sure to identify the type of weed you are dealing with before selecting your removal method.
\n\n\n\nExperts agree hand weeding is just as important as chemical removal methods. You should aim to weed your yard and garden weekly or bi-weekly. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Bull-Thistle.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jim Morefield / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as spear thistle or common thistle, bull thistle is a prickly biennial plant with tall, branching stems that grow up to five feet tall and sprout downy purple flowers. Find specimens in pastures, meadows, and along roadsides. Bull thistle grows in sunny areas, forming dense thickets that choke other plants.
\n\n\n\nThough it’s a noxious weed, bull thistle is beneficial to pollinators like bees and butterflies. It is fairly easy to control when compared to other species of thistle and responds well to hand removal and post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Chickweed-Stellaria-Media.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Jean and Fred Hort / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nChickweed is a low-growing, spreading, broadleaf annual with shallow roots. It forms dense patches, crowding out turfgrass and other plants. Chickweed withstands high mow heights and thrives in moist, shady areas.
\n\n\n\nSpecimens bloom conspicuous clusters of white, star-shaped flowers for one to two months between February to September. Control this pesky shade-loving weed by treating your lawn with a pre-emergent herbicide or hand-pulling specimens that pop up.
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/25140451756_2a557dd4c7_c-3.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nDallisgrass is an invasive bunchgrass and common perennial weed in Raleigh lawns. It grows quickly and has a coarse, hairy texture with tall stalks and cone-shaped flowers. Prevent dallisgrass by maintaining a dense lawn and applying a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring.
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Common_Dandelion.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Sunasce007 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nDandelions are perennial weeds with a thick, fleshy stem that secretes a white, milky sap when broken. Perhaps the most recognizable weed of all time, its bright yellow flowers mature, drying out into spherical clusters of white puffballs composed of parachute-like seeds. Dandelions live up to two years and thrive in disturbed turf. Their peak blooming season is from February to March.
\n\n\n\nPrevent dandelions by maintaining your landscape with regular mowing, fertilizing, and watering to encourage dense growth. Dandelions have long taproots that penetrate the soil and respond well to hand pulling. Additionally, control specimens with a post-emergent broadleaf herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"Doveweed](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/doveweed-1.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: George3819 / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nDoveweed is a summer annual weed that germinates during hot weather, appearing from late May to August. It resembles dense mats of grass but develops short stalks with clusters of purple flowers as it matures. Doveweed thrives in moist soils and full sun.
\n\n\n\nPrevent doveweed with proper turf maintenance, beginning in the spring with pre-emergent herbicide applications. Practice good drain management and target specimens that appear with a post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"Beautiful](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/7120798591_319b90985c_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Harry Rose / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nGoosegrass thrives in compact soil, making its home in short home lawns, athletic fields, and golf courses. Specimens compete with warm and cool-season turfgrasses. Goosegrass is dark green with a low, bunching growth habit that makes it impenetrable to most mowing. Prevent goosegrass by maintaining healthy soil and applying pre-emergent herbicides.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/18875740610_488f8e68a0_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nGreen foxtail is a bright green annual grass with fuzzy seed heads that resemble animal tails or wheat. Specimens adapt to most soil types and thrive in well-drained sites. Prevent green foxtail with proper lawn maintenance and routine applications of pre-emergent herbicides. It responds well to both hand removal and post-emergent herbicides.
\n\n\n\n![\"Ground](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/ground-ivy-1.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: AnemoneProjectors / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nGround ivy, or creeping Charlie, is a broadleaf perennial weed. Its leaves are round with scalloped edges, and specimens produce clusters of blue flowers. Ground ivy thrives in moist, shaded locations and some homeowners use its leaves to make medicinal tea, soups, or jams.
\n\n\n\nControl ground ivy with proper drain management, aeration, and applications of pre-emergent herbicide. Apply a post-emergent herbicide to control specimens that emerge. The broadleaf perennial blooms in early spring and typically goes dormant in the hot summer months.
\n\n\n\n![\"Japanese](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/18871996348_ce04b04863_c-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nJapanese stiltgrass thrives in moist, shaded areas but adapts to most conditions. Specimens resemble delicate bamboo plants with asymmetrical leaves. The broadleaf perennial weed grows up to three feet tall, creating a habitat for ticks. Remove Japanese stiltgrass by hand or with applications of post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"Crabgrass](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Large-crabgrass.jpg\")
Photo Credit: NY State IPM Program at Cornell University / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nLarge crabgrass is one of the most common weeds found in Raleigh yards. It is low-growing and resistant to mowing. Large crabgrass resembles light-green clumps of grass and is commonly mistaken for tall fescue.
\n\n\n\nLarge crabgrass germinates in the spring and appears throughout the summer. Control specimens with routine maintenance, including applications of pre-emergent herbicide. Post-emergent herbicide works to control specimens that emerge.
\n\n\n\n![\"Lespedeza,](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Kummerowia_striata_Lespedeza_striata-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Show_ryu / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nLespedeza, also known as Japanese clover, is a summer annual weed with small, oval leaves similar to clover. The stems become woody as specimens mature and pink or purple flowers bloom. It is a low-growing broadleaf weed that thrives in dry, disturbed turf.
\n\n\n\nControl lespedeza with proper lawn maintenance and applications of pre-emergent herbicide. Remove emerged specimens using a dandelion fork or post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"bright](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Potentilla_indica_qtl1-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Quartl / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0
\n\n\n\nMock strawberry, or Indian strawberry, disguises itself as a strawberry plant. However, this broadleaf perennial invades healthy plants and turfgrass, robbing them of vital nutrients. Its fruit is small and tasteless, and specimens bloom yellow flowers. Mock strawberry has a spreading growth habit and thrives in moist, sunny locations.
\n\n\n\nPrevent mock strawberries by improving drainage, aerating, and practicing proper watering techniques. Remove emerged specimens by hand or treat them with a post-emergent broadleaf herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"Plantain](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Plantago_major_RF-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Robert Flogaus-Faust / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0
\n\n\n\nPlantain, not to be confused with the delicious fruit, is a broadleaf perennial weed that lives for more than two years in compacted soils with full sun and good drainage and stands up to heavy foot traffic. Plantain produces waxy, hairy leaves and tall flowers. Prevent plantain with proper lawn maintenance and applications of pre-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"close-up](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Cyperus_rotundus_by_kadavoor-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: © 2009 Jee & Rani Nature Photography / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nPurple nutsedge, also known as nutgrass, is an aggressive perennial weed that resembles grass. Specimens have v-shaped stems and thick, stiff leaves. Purple nutsedge produces purple seed heads and thrives in temperate and tropical regions.
\n\n\n\nSpecimens prefer moist, flooded clay, loam, or sand and full sun. Prevent purple nutsedge with proper turfgrass maintenance. Target emerged specimens with a broadleaf herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"closeup](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Ragweed.jpg\")
Photo Credit: United Soybean Board / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
\n\n\n\nAlso known as American wormwood, ragweed is a broadleaf annual weed that releases large amounts of pollen. Find it growing in poor soils with full sun. Ragweed has coarse, hairy stems and lobed leaves. Prevent the allergy-inducing pest with applications of a pre-emergent herbicide, proper lawn maintenance, and broadleaf herbicide.
\n\n\n\n![\"Spotted](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Euphorbia_maculata_221057397-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Michel Langeveld / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
\n\n\n\nSpotted spurge thrives in North Carolina’s summer heat. It is low-growing, forming dense mats that choke turfgrass. Spotted spurge varies in color from reddish-green to dark green and produces small white flowers. The broadleaf annual thrives in sunny, dry habitats like lawns, pastures, and sidewalk cracks.
\n\n\n\nRemove spotted spurge by hand and prevent the pesky weeds using a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring and fall. Post-emergent herbicide works to control emerging specimens.
\n\n\n\n![\"close](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Virginia_buttonweed_5718379708-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Bob Peterson from North Palm Beach, Florida, Planet Earth! / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
\n\n\n\nVirginia buttonweed is a perennial weed native to the Southeast. It resembles common wildflowers and blooms from summer through fall. Virginia buttonweed lives for more than two years, thriving in rich, moist soils. Control specimens with applications of pre-emergent herbicide and hand removal.
\n\n\n\n![\"White](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/White-Clover-Trifolium-Repens.jpg\")
Photo Credit: WikimediaImages / Pixabay / License
\n\n\n\nWhite clover is a perennial weed with an aggressive growth habit. Specimens survive most mowing. Find white clover in fields and moist soil with partial shade. Farmers typically use the perennial as a cover crop to balance nitrogen levels and prevent soil erosion. It also provides forage for livestock. Prevent white clover by hand pulling specimens or applying post-emergent herbicide.
\n\n\n\nSelective herbicides control specific weeds or weed families.
Non-selective herbicides are typically more potent than selective herbicides. They work on many weeds, including grassy and broadleaf. However, they also wipe out good vegetation and turfgrass. These heavy-duty herbicides are best left to the professionals.
Raleigh’s unique climate suits both warm and cool-season grass cultivars, including:
Warm-season grasses:
● Bermudagrass
● Centipedegrass
● St. Augustinegrass
● Zoysiagrass
Cool-season grasses:
● Kentucky bluegrass
● Fine fescue
● Perennial ryegrass
● Tall fescue
Prevent weeds by maintaining your Raleigh landscape. Unfortunately, fertilizing, mowing, and watering can be time-consuming. Let Wikilawn connect you with a local lawn care pro, so you can spend more time enjoying the Old North State.
\n\n\n\nMain Photo Credit: PxFuel
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