Guide to the Weeds of Arizona

Weeds are a nuisance and ruin the visual appeal of a lawn. Specific weeds can be found in Arizona; if not treated, they can harm plants by suppressing growth and blooming. However, not every weed can be eliminated the same way.

Here are some of the weeds endemic to Arizona and how to deal with them.

Barnyard grass

This weed is versatile and can grow in moist turf. It can be found in yards, marshes, agricultural fields, etc. Known to grow to five feet in height, it is recognizable by its smooth stems and leaves. The weed, also known as Cockspur grass, has beautiful purple seeds.

However, it takes all the best nutrients from the soil, such as potassium and phosphorus. This can hurt the land, so getting rid of it as soon as possible with fertilizers, herbicides, frequent mowing, and maintenance is necessary.

Wild oat

Another plant that poses a threat to agriculture is wild oat. Like barnyard grass, it loves sprouting on moist fields. With thin leaves, this plant is dark to beige, lacks auricles, and has blueish leaves.

This disease-careering weed is more complicated to eliminate than barnyard grass as it’s resistant to common herbicides. For that reason, it’s best to seek professional pest control services.

Johnson grass

Johnson grass or Aleppo millet grass is another invasive weed harmful to crops and destructive for irrigation systems, vegetation, and agricultural fields. If found on any lawn, it should be immediately eliminated.

Fortunately, removing Johnson grass isn’t challenging if dealt with early. Property owners can dig out the plants and remove the wide roots. With the addition of herbicides, the weeds should be terminated. However, if the problem persists, it’s advisable to contact professionals.

Red sorrel

Red sorrel can be recognized by the peculiar shape of its red leaves. But beware! These spade-shaped leaves harm people as they spread pollen, exacerbating hay fever and allergies. As far as removing sorrel is concerned, there are various methods. In the early stages, mulching the land and soil prevents this weed from sprouting.

If carried out properly, this will stop any new seeds from growing. Additionally, plowing, mowing the lawn, pulling the weed and its roots, and using herbicide are all effective ways of removing red sorrel.

Redroot pigweed

People can recognize this weed by their narrow leaves. Matured leaves change shape to the ovate or rhombic and are hairy on the margins. Male flowers of redroot pigweed die after spreading pollen, unlike females.

This weed spreads rapidly during spring and summer. Using herbicides early on is necessary since getting rid of them is harder. Cultivating the land is another way of preventing redroot seeds from spreading.

Protect the lawn and plants

Arizona soil is susceptible to weed growth. Property owners must take precautions to eliminate disruptive lawn and yard weeds. Seek professional help from pest control services to best deal with these issues.

Russell Pest Control is a family-owned Phoenix area pest control company specializing in effective, responsible and proactive insect, weed, and rodent control for commercial and residential customers. We offer free estimates. Call (623) 469-7583 today! "Expect the best from Russell Pest