Experts urge layered strategy for weed control when converting lawns to water-wise landscaping

At a Utah Division of Water Resources webinar, extension specialists advised homeowners converting lawns to water-wise landscapes to use layered strategies — exclusion, competition, mechanical control and targeted herbicides — and to follow herbicide labels and program rules.

Weeds commonly surge when lawns are removed because turf acts as a living mulch; the panel warned that seeds in the soil can remain dormant for decades and will germinate after soil disturbance and watering.

Katie Wagner, an educator with Utah State University Extension, said it is “really important to formulate both short term and long term weed management plans,” and urged homeowners to choose maintenance approaches that match their time, budget and values. She and other presenters walked through options ranging from mechanical removal and solarization…