Common Minnesota Lawn Weeds
Identification and control guide for the West Metro.
Crabgrass
Annual summer grass that germinates in early spring. Best controlled with a pre-emergent application before soil temps hit 55°F.
Control: Pre-emergent in early April; spot-treat with post-emergent in summer.
Dandelions
Perennial broadleaf with deep taproots. Spreads aggressively via wind-borne seeds.
Control: Selective broadleaf herbicide in spring or fall when actively growing.
Creeping Charlie
Low-growing perennial with scalloped leaves and purple flowers. Loves shade and moist soil.
Control: Fall application of triclopyr-based herbicide is most effective.
Clover
Low-growing legume - actually fixes nitrogen but competes with turf for space.
Control: Healthy, dense turf naturally outcompetes clover. Selective herbicide if needed.
Plantain
Broad, ribbed leaves that thrive in compacted soil. Often a sign of compaction problems.
Control: Aerate compacted areas + selective broadleaf herbicide.
Quackgrass
Perennial grass with extensive rhizomes - spreads underground and is hard to kill.
Control: Spot-treat with non-selective herbicide and reseed bare areas.