What Are Broadleaf Weeds?

Broadleaf weeds are unwanted plants with wide leaves that stand out in turfgrass. Unlike grassy weeds (like crabgrass), they grow differently and require selective herbicides for control.

Common examples include:

• Dandelion
• Clover
• Plantain
• Chickweed
• Spurge
• Henbit
• Oxalis

These weeds compete with turf for sunlight, nutrients, and water — and they disrupt lawn uniformity and appearance.

How Broadleaf Weed Control Works

Broadleaf weed control uses selective herbicides, meaning:

• They target broadleaf plants
• They do not harm established turfgrass when applied properly
• They are absorbed through the leaf and move through the plant
• They kill the weed down to the root

Most applications are post-emergent, meaning they treat weeds that are already growing.

Why One Does NOT Replace the Other

A lawn treated only for grassy weeds can still be full of dandelions.
A lawn treated only for broadleaf weeds can still be overrun by crabgrass and foxtail.

You need both for complete protection.

Why This Matters for Your Lawn

When both services are included in a structured lawn program:

• Spring grassy weeds never get established
• Visible broadleaf weeds are eliminated quickly
• Turf grows thicker and healthier
• Weed pressure decreases year after year

The result is a lawn that looks consistently clean — not just temporarily improved.

The Bottom Line

Grassy weed prevention protects your lawn from future problems.
Broadleaf weed control eliminates current problems.

Together, they form a complete, season-long weed management strategy — and that’s what delivers a thick, healthy, truly weed-free lawn.

When Broadleaf Weed Control Is Applied

Spring Applications

Targets early-season weeds like dandelion and chickweed when they are actively growing.

Late Spring / Early Summer

Controls clover, plantain, and other actively spreading weeds.

Fall Applications (Most Effective)

Fall is often the best time for broadleaf control because weeds are storing nutrients for winter — herbicides move more effectively to the root system, resulting in stronger control.

Unlike grassy weed prevention, broadleaf control eliminates weeds that are already present.

Think of broadleaf control as correction — it cleans up existing weeds.

Summary Table – Weed Types