When Weeds Take Over Your Grass

By Jorge Melo

Picture this: you step outside to admire your lawn, only to discover it looks more like a botanical garden of unwanted plants than the green carpet you once knew. Nearly 80% of homeowners in Massachusetts deal with significant weed problems each year, according to local landscaping professionals. Your grass didn't just disappear overnight.

Weeds are opportunistic. They move in when your lawn shows weakness. And once they establish themselves? They're incredibly difficult to evict.

But here's the good news: even the most weed-infested lawns can be restored to their former glory! I've helped countless homeowners in Plymouth County and Bristol County transform their yards from weed wastelands back into lush, healthy grass. The process requires patience, the right strategy, and consistent action.

Let me walk you through exactly how to reclaim your lawn, step by step.

How to Get Rid of Lawn Overrun with Weeds?

When weeds have taken over your grass, you're facing a battle that requires strategy, not just brute force. The key is understanding that successful weed elimination involves multiple coordinated steps, each building on the previous one.

Step 1 – Assess the Scale of the Issue

Before you grab any herbicide, take a honest look at your lawn. Walk around your entire property and evaluate the damage.

If less than 50% of your lawn is weeds: You can likely restore it through targeted treatments and overseeding.

If more than 50% is weeds: You're looking at a major renovation project that might require starting over in some areas.

If it's 75% or more weeds: Consider a complete lawn renovation with professional help.

Take photos from different angles. This helps you track progress and identify problem areas that need extra attention. For homeowners in landscaping in Plymouth County areas like Fairhaven and New Bedford, spring assessment (April-May) gives you the clearest picture before summer growth explodes.

Step 2 – Identify the Weeds

Not all weeds are created equal. Different weeds require different treatment approaches.

Common Massachusetts weeds include:

• Dandelions: Deep taproot, yellow flowers

• Crabgrass: Annual grass weed, spreads rapidly

• Clover: Three-leaf clusters, often indicates nitrogen-poor soil

• Plantain: Broad leaves, grows in compacted soil

• Chickweed: Small white flowers, thrives in cool weather

Take clear photos of your weeds and research their specific characteristics. Many lawn care in Bristol County professionals recommend using plant identification apps or consulting with local extension services for accurate identification.

Step 3 – Select an Appropriate Post-Emergent Herbicide

Once you know what you're fighting, choose your weapon wisely.

Selective herbicides target weeds while leaving grass unharmed. These work best when your lawn still has decent grass coverage.

Non-selective herbicides kill everything they touch. Use these only in areas where you plan to completely start over.

Timing matters tremendously in New England. Apply post-emergent herbicides when weeds are actively growing but before they go to seed. For most Massachusetts weeds, this means late spring through early fall.

Step 4 – Apply Herbicide

Read the label. Then read it again. Seriously.

Application tips:

• Choose a calm, dry day with no rain in the forecast for 24-48 hours

• Apply in early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat stress

• Use a pump sprayer for precise application

• Mark treated areas to avoid walking on them

For lawn care in Plymouth County residents, avoid application during the hottest summer days. Your grass is already stressed from heat – don't add herbicide stress on top of it.

Step 5 – Be Patient

This is where most homeowners fail. They expect instant results.

Most herbicides take 7-14 days to show visible effects. Some tough weeds might require a second application after 2-3 weeks. Resist the urge to reapply immediately if you don't see results in a few days.

During this waiting period, avoid mowing for at least a week to let the herbicide work effectively.

Step 6 – If It Is Necessary, Plant New Grass

Once weeds are dead and removed, you'll likely have bare spots that need new grass.

Seeding vs. Sodding:

Seeding is more economical but takes longer to establish. Best done in early fall in Massachusetts.

Sodding provides instant results but costs significantly more. Can be done spring through fall.

For landscaping in Bristol County areas like Dartmouth and Westport, fall seeding (September-October) gives new grass the best chance to establish before winter.

Step 7 – Maintain a Thick Healthy Lawn with Proper Lawn Care & a Weed Maintenance Plan

Prevention is your best long-term strategy. Thick, healthy grass naturally crowds out weeds.

Your maintenance plan should include:

• Regular fertilization (3-4 times per year)

• Proper mowing height (2.5-3 inches)

• Deep, infrequent watering

• Annual aeration and overseeding

• Pre-emergent herbicide application in early spring

Why Is Your Lawn Full of Weeds?

Understanding the root cause prevents future problems. Weeds don't just randomly appear – they exploit weaknesses in your lawn.

Common causes include:

• Compacted soil: Prevents grass roots from accessing nutrients and water

• Poor drainage: Creates conditions weeds love but grass hates

• Wrong grass type: Some grasses simply don't thrive in your specific conditions

• Inadequate fertilization: Weak grass can't compete with aggressive weeds

• Improper mowing: Cutting too short stresses grass and opens opportunities for weeds

How To Restore a Lawn Full of Weeds in 10 Steps

When your lawn is more weeds than grass, you need a comprehensive restoration approach.

Step 1: Identify the Weeds

We covered this above, but it bears repeating. Accurate identification drives your entire strategy.

Step 2: Select a Proper Herbicide

Choose based on your weed types and lawn goals. Selective herbicides preserve existing grass. Non-selective herbicides clear the slate for a fresh start.

Step 3: Apply the Treatment

Follow label directions precisely. More is not better with herbicides – it can damage your remaining grass.

Step 4: Wait It Out

Patience is crucial. Most homeowners want to see results immediately, but herbicides need time to work through the weed's system.

Step 5: Mow, Rake, and Till

Once weeds are dead (usually 2-3 weeks), remove the dead material. Rake thoroughly to remove debris. Light tilling helps prepare soil for new seed.

Step 6: Dethatch and Aerate

Dethatching removes the layer of dead grass and organic matter that can prevent new seed from reaching soil.

Aeration relieves soil compaction and improves water and nutrient penetration.

For Massachusetts lawns, early fall is ideal for both processes.

Step 7: Test and Amend the Soil

Don't skip this step! Soil testing reveals pH levels and nutrient deficiencies that contributed to your weed problem.

Most grasses prefer pH between 6.0-7.0. Add lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it based on test results.

Step 8: Lay Down Seed or Sod

Laying Seed:

• More affordable option

• Choose grass varieties suited to your specific conditions

• Requires consistent watering for 2-3 weeks

• Best results in early fall

Laying Sod:

• Instant lawn transformation

• Higher upfront cost

• Can be installed spring through fall

• Requires less initial watering than seed

Step 9: Water Your Lawn

New grass needs consistent moisture to establish. Water lightly but frequently until grass is well-established (usually 4-6 weeks).

Step 10: Maintain Your Lawn

Consistent maintenance prevents future weed invasions. Stick to your fertilization, mowing, and watering schedule religiously.

Preventing Weeds from Coming Back

The best weed control is prevention. A thick, healthy lawn naturally resists weed invasion.

Prevention strategies:

• Pre-emergent herbicide application in early spring before soil temperatures reach 55°F

• Proper fertilization schedule to keep grass competitive

• Correct mowing practices – never cut more than 1/3 of grass height

• Adequate watering – deep, infrequent watering encourages deep root growth

• Annual overseeding to maintain grass density

Should You Use Professional Lawn Care?

Sometimes DIY isn't the answer. Consider professional help if:

• Your lawn is more than 75% weeds

• You've tried multiple approaches without success

• You lack time for consistent maintenance

• You're dealing with persistent, hard-to-identify weeds

Professional lawn care in Plymouth County and lawn care in Bristol County services have access to commercial-grade products and years of experience dealing with local weed problems.

FAQ About Lawn Care

What kills lawn weeds but not the grass?

Selective herbicides target broadleaf weeds while leaving grass unharmed. Popular options include 2,4-D, dicamba, and MCPP. Always read labels carefully and choose products specifically designed for your grass type.

Will grass eventually choke out weeds?

Thick, healthy grass can outcompete many weeds for sunlight, water, and nutrients. However, this only works if your grass is vigorous and well-maintained. Weak or sparse grass cannot effectively suppress weeds.

Why are some weeds worse than others?

Some weeds have aggressive growth habits, deep root systems, or produce many seeds. Dandelions have taproots up to 10 inches deep. Crabgrass can produce 150,000 seeds per plant. These characteristics make certain weeds particularly problematic.

When should you apply pre-emergent herbicide in Massachusetts?

Apply pre-emergent herbicide when soil temperatures consistently reach 55°F, typically in late April to early May in Massachusetts. This prevents annual weeds like crabgrass from germinating.

How often should you fertilize your lawn in New England?

Most New England lawns benefit from 3-4 fertilizer applications per year: early spring, late spring, summer, and fall. Timing depends on your specific grass type and local conditions.

What's the best grass type for Massachusetts lawns?

Cool-season grasses perform best in Massachusetts. Popular options include tall fescue, fine fescue, and perennial ryegrass. These varieties tolerate the region's cold winters and moderate summers.

FAQ About New England Tree & Landscape

What areas does New England Tree & Landscape serve?

New England Tree & Landscape provides comprehensive landscaping and tree services throughout Plymouth County and Bristol County, Massachusetts. Our service area includes communities within 30 minutes of Fairhaven, ensuring prompt, reliable service for all our clients.

What services does New England Tree & Landscape offer?

We provide complete landscape and tree care services including lawn restoration, weed control, tree removal, pruning, landscape design, and ongoing maintenance. Our team specializes in addressing the unique challenges of Massachusetts landscapes.

How can I schedule a consultation with New England Tree & Landscape?

Contact us directly to schedule your free consultation. We'll assess your specific lawn and landscape needs, provide detailed recommendations, and create a customized plan to restore your property's beauty and health.

Does New England Tree & Landscape offer ongoing maintenance plans?

Yes! We offer comprehensive maintenance plans that include regular lawn care, weed control, fertilization, and seasonal services. Our maintenance programs are designed to keep your landscape healthy year-round while preventing future weed problems.

Ready to reclaim your lawn from weeds? The process takes time and patience, but the results are worth it. Remember, every beautiful lawn started somewhere – even if that somewhere was completely overrun with weeds.

Start with a honest assessment of your situation, choose the right approach for your specific conditions, and stay consistent with your maintenance. Your neighbors will be asking for your secrets before you know it!

READY TO TRANSFORM YOUR WEED-INFESTED LAWN?

GET YOUR FREE ESTIMATE TODAY!

WHY CHOOSE NEW ENGLAND TREE & LANDSCAPE?

• Over 35 years of experience serving Plymouth County and Bristol County

• Customized treatment plans for your specific weed problems

• Professional-grade equipment and products

• Fully licensed and insured

• 100% satisfaction guarantee

GET STARTED TODAY:

WEBSITE: www.newenglandtreeandlandscape.com

EMAIL: request@newenglandtreeandlandscape.com

PHONE: (508) 763-8000

Schedule your FREE consultation and estimate today! Our expert team will assess your

lawn, identify your specific weed problems, and create a customized plan to restore

your property. Don't wait – the sooner you start, the sooner you'll have the lawn of your

dreams.

SERVICE AREAS: Fairhaven, New Bedford, Dartmouth, Westport, Acushnet, Marion,

Mattapoisett, Rochester, and all surrounding communities in Plymouth County and

Bristol County.

Your beautiful lawn is just one phone call away!

Citations

Gecko Green. "Get Rid of Overrun Lawn Weeds." Gecko Green, www.geckogreen.com/get-rid-overrun-lawn-weeds. Accessed 20 July 2025.

Hartney Greymont. "How To Get Rid Of Weeds In Your Lawn." Hartney Greymont, 9 May 2024, www.hartney.com/resources/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-boston/. Accessed 20 July 2025.

Melo, Jorge. "When Weeds Take Over Your Grass." J Melo Media, 2025.

The Spruce. "10 Tips to Kill Weeds Without Also Killing Your Lawn This Spring." The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/kill-weeds-not-grass-8601591. Accessed 20 July 2025.

This Old House. "How To Restore a Lawn Full of Weeds." This Old House, www.thisoldhouse.com/lawns/lawn-full-of-weeds. Accessed 20 July 2025.