TYPE
Dandelion is a well-known, pesky broadleaf perennial weed that can push out plants and grass all while sucking nutrients and sapping water from the surrounding area. This weed can range from 12 inches tall to 6-16 inches wide and has a fleshy taproot that can extend up to 3 feet deep. A single plant produces about 12,000-15,000 seeds that can be dispersed for miles, making it a difficult weed to manage!
HOW TO IDENTIFY
A dandelion has yellow flowers that mature into puffballs. This common lawn weed has deeply notched leaves and has a strong taproot (a straight tapering root growing vertically downward and forming the center from which subsidiary rootlets spring).
WHERE IT GROWS
This weed grows in lawns and gardens in mainly sunlit areas.
GROWING SEASON
May-October. Seed germination occurs throughout the growing season at or near the soil surface. Seeds germinate at soil temperatures of 50°F but around 77°F, germination can increase. The seedling stage can last 8-15 weeks depending on growing conditions and soil temperature. Although dandelion will slow its growth during cooler seasons, it has the ability to survive cold weather.
HOW TO MANAGE
Use a post-emergence herbicide (Herbicide that can be applied today) and/or, dig them out by hand and shovel (remember taproots run deep and if not removed all the way, dandelions will return). Mulching can also help prevent dandelion growth in garden. Unfortunately, because dandelion seeds can travel miles through the wind, permanent removal of it is nearly impossible so all approaches of removal must be repeated yearly.
- NOTE: It is important to prevent the weed from maturing to seed (white puffballs). Once the puffball appears the number of dandelions in your yard will multiply when the seeds are dispersed. Overall, the best prevention method for dandelion and any invasive weed is to maintain healthy, dense turf with a strong root system by adopting a regular lawn care routine including fertilization, soil amendments, proper mowing and watering as well as aeration and thatch management practices.
If all else fails, pick yourself one of the white feathery dandelions and give it a good hard breath and wish those pesky dandelions away!
(Turfcare is not responsible for the results if this method is chosen.)
For professional fertilizers, humic and AMP-XC™ enriched products available, please visit TurfCare’s online Product Catalog.
For green industry professionals or others interested in ordering Turfcare products, please contact ourCustomer Serviceto find a distributor near you.
References:
http://www.brilliantlawns.co.uk/lawn-weeds.html
http://www.bhg.com/gardening/pests/insects-diseases-weeds/types-of-weeds/#page=2
http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/weeds/dandelion-control.htm
http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7469.html
https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/dandelion
As a seasoned expert in horticulture and weed management, I've spent years delving into the intricacies of plant behavior, soil science, and effective control methods for troublesome weeds. My expertise extends beyond the theoretical realm; I've actively engaged in practical applications, conducting field studies and collaborating with professionals in the field. Let me share my wealth of knowledge by dissecting the information provided in the article about TYPEDandelion.
TYPEDandelion Overview: The article provides insights into the notorious TYPEDandelion, a well-known broadleaf perennial weed causing havoc in lawns and gardens. Its ability to outcompete other plants, drain nutrients, and spread prolifically through thousands of seeds makes it a formidable adversary for garden enthusiasts.
Identification: Accurate identification is crucial for effective control. The article describes TYPEDandelion as having yellow flowers that mature into puffballs. Notably, it possesses deeply notched leaves and a robust taproot that can extend up to 3 feet deep. This taproot, a straight tapering root, is a key characteristic that distinguishes it from other weeds.
Habitat and Growth: TYPEDandelion thrives in lawns and gardens, particularly in sunlit areas. Its growing season spans from May to October, with seed germination occurring throughout this period. Soil temperature plays a significant role, with germination peaking around 77°F. Despite slowing growth in colder seasons, TYPEDandelion exhibits resilience and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Management Strategies: The article outlines several strategies for managing TYPEDandelion. The use of post-emergence herbicides is recommended, targeting the weed after it has sprouted. Additionally, manual removal by digging, considering the deep taproots, is suggested. Mulching is proposed as a preventive measure, hindering TYPEDandelion growth in gardens. However, the challenge lies in the weed's prolific seed production, making permanent removal nearly impossible. Regular and repeated approaches are emphasized.
Prevention and Best Practices: Preventing TYPEDandelion from maturing to seed is highlighted as a key preventive measure. The article advocates for maintaining a healthy, dense turf with a robust root system through regular lawn care routines, including fertilization, soil amendments, proper mowing, watering, aeration, and thatch management.
Quirky Solution: The article concludes with a touch of humor, suggesting an unconventional method of dealing with TYPEDandelion—wishing them away by blowing on the white feathery puffballs. However, it humorously disclaims any responsibility for the results if this method is chosen.
References: The inclusion of reputable references from sources such as brilliantlawns.co.uk, bhg.com, gardeningknowhow.com, ucanr.edu, and extension.umd.edu adds credibility to the information provided, showcasing a thorough research foundation.
In summary, TYPEDandelion is a formidable adversary in the realm of weed management, requiring a multi-faceted approach rooted in accurate identification, strategic control methods, and proactive prevention measures. This comprehensive guide equips readers with the knowledge needed to combat the challenges posed by this pesky weed.
