Complete Weed Control Guide for Georgia Lawns (2026)
Professional strategies for crabgrass, nutsedge, and common Georgia weeds
Georgia's warm, humid climate and clay soils create perfect conditions for a wide variety of weeds. From crabgrass in summer to annual bluegrass in winter, maintaining a weed-free lawn requires year-round attention and the right timing.
Based on our 20+ years serving Henry County, we'll share the professional weed control strategies that keep Georgia lawns pristine. Learn what to apply, when to apply it, and how to prevent weeds before they start.
Common Georgia Weeds
Crabgrass
Summer AnnualLow-growing grass that spreads in a crab-like pattern. Thrives in hot, compacted soil common in Henry County.
Prevention:
Pre-emergent herbicide in March when soil reaches 55°F
Treatment:
Post-emergent herbicide in early summer before seed production
Appearance:
Light green, coarse blades, grows flat to ground
Dallisgrass
PerennialClumping grass with coarse texture that invades Bermuda and Zoysia lawns. Common in Georgia's clay soils.
Prevention:
Maintain thick turf, proper fertilization
Treatment:
Non-selective herbicide spot treatment, then reseeding
Appearance:
Dark green, coarse blades, grows in circular clumps
Virginia Buttonweed
Summer PerennialLow-growing weed that forms dense mats. Particularly problematic in shaded, overwatered areas.
Prevention:
Proper drainage, avoid overwatering
Treatment:
Multiple applications of selective herbicide
Appearance:
Small rounded leaves, star-shaped white flowers
Annual Bluegrass
Winter AnnualFine-textured grass that appears in fall and dies in summer. Thrives in Georgia's mild winters.
Prevention:
Pre-emergent in fall (September-October)
Treatment:
Post-emergent in fall or early spring
Appearance:
Fine, bright green blades, seed heads in spring
Nutsedge (Nutgrass)
Summer PerennialSedge that grows faster than turf grass. Thrives in wet, poorly drained areas common in clay soil.
Prevention:
Improve drainage, avoid overwatering
Treatment:
Specialized nutsedge herbicide, multiple applications needed
Appearance:
Light green, triangular stems, grows faster than surrounding grass
Broadleaf Plantain
PerennialBroadleaf weed that tolerates compacted soil. Common in high-traffic areas of Henry County lawns.
Prevention:
Aerate compacted soil, maintain proper mowing height
Treatment:
Broadleaf herbicide in fall or spring
Appearance:
Broad oval leaves with prominent veins, seed spikes
Year-Round Weed Control Schedule
February-March
Soil reaches 55°FKey Tasks:
- Apply first pre-emergent for crabgrass and summer annuals
- Treat existing winter weeds with post-emergent
- Spot spray any visible broadleaf weeds
Recommended Products:
Pro Tip: Apply before March 15 in Henry County for best results
April-May
65-75°FKey Tasks:
- Monitor for early crabgrass breakthrough
- Apply broadleaf weed control as needed
- Begin spot treating emerged weeds
Recommended Products:
Pro Tip: Young weeds are easier to control - don't wait
June-August
80-95°FKey Tasks:
- Treat nutsedge and summer perennial weeds
- Control dallisgrass and Virginia buttonweed
- Apply post-emergent crabgrass control if needed
Recommended Products:
Pro Tip: Water lawn 24 hours before herbicide application for best absorption
September-October
70-55°FKey Tasks:
- Apply fall pre-emergent for winter annuals
- Treat broadleaf weeds actively growing
- Control perennial weeds before winter
Recommended Products:
Pro Tip: Fall is ideal time for perennial weed control
November-January
Below 55°FKey Tasks:
- Monitor for winter annual germination
- Limited treatment options in cold weather
- Plan spring weed control program
Recommended Products:
Pro Tip: Winter weeds can be treated on warm days above 60°F
Weed Control Methods
Pre-Emergent Herbicides
Creates barrier that prevents weed seeds from germinating
Best For:
Application Timing:
Before soil reaches target temperature (March for summer, September for winter)
Pros:
- Most effective prevention
- Less labor intensive
- Cost-effective long-term
Cons:
- •Must be applied at right time
- •Won't control existing weeds
- •Requires precise application
Post-Emergent Herbicides
Kills weeds after they have emerged and are growing
Best For:
Application Timing:
When weeds are young and actively growing
Pros:
- Controls existing problems
- Targeted application possible
- Visible results quickly
Cons:
- •More expensive
- •Requires multiple applications
- •Can damage desirable plants if misapplied
Cultural Control
Creating conditions favorable for turf, unfavorable for weeds
Best For:
Application Timing:
Year-round maintenance
Pros:
- No chemicals needed
- Improves overall lawn health
- Sustainable long-term
Cons:
- •Requires consistent effort
- •Results take time
- •May not eliminate severe infestations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply pre-emergent in Henry County, GA?
Apply summer pre-emergent between February 20-March 15 when soil temperature reaches 55°F. Apply winter pre-emergent September 15-October 15. Soil temperature is more important than calendar dates.
Why do I have so many weeds in my McDonough lawn?
Henry County's clay soil compacts easily, creating perfect conditions for weeds. Thin turf, improper mowing height, and inconsistent fertilization also contribute. A proper lawn care program can reduce weeds by 80%.
Can I control weeds without chemicals?
Yes, through proper mowing (3-4 inches), regular fertilization, annual aeration, and adequate watering. However, established weed infestations usually require initial herbicide treatment followed by cultural prevention.
How long after weed control can I plant grass seed?
For most herbicides, wait 2-4 weeks after application before seeding. Some pre-emergents can prevent seeding for up to 8 weeks. Always read the product label for specific waiting periods.
Is professional weed control worth it in Stockbridge?
Professional programs typically cost $30-50 per month but prevent costly reseeding and lawn renovation. Professionals have access to commercial-grade products and know exactly when to apply them for Georgia conditions.
Tired of Battling Weeds?
Let our experts handle your weed control. We know Georgia weeds, soil conditions, and exactly when to treat for maximum effectiveness. Serving all of Henry County with professional results.