Tips from Tri-State Outdoor Living for a Healthier, Cleaner Yard
As summer winds down in Chicago, it’s easy to shift focus from lawn care to fall festivities. But if you want a lush, weed-free lawn next spring, late summer is your last best chance to take action. At Tri-State Outdoor Living, we help homeowners tackle late-season weeds before they spread — and before colder temperatures make treatment less effective.
Here’s what to look for and how to deal with it:
Why Late Summer Weed Control Matters
By late July and August, weeds have taken advantage of the summer heat and any weak spots in your lawn. If left alone, they’ll drop seeds, spread underground roots, and take over your lawn next season. Stopping them now means fewer headaches (and less herbicide) later.
Know Your Enemies: Common Late Summer Weeds in Chicago
Here are a few aggressive weeds that thrive in the Chicago area this time of year:
Crabgrass – A warm-season annual that spreads fast in thinning lawns. Once it goes to seed, it becomes a problem for next year.
Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy) – This weed loves shady, moist areas and spreads by creeping stems.
Dandelions – They’re not just a spring nuisance. Late summer dandelions can flower again and spread seeds into fall.
Plantain & Clover – Low-growing weeds that compete for moisture and nutrients in compacted soil.
What You Can Do Now
1. Spot Treat Problem Areas
Use a selective post-emergent herbicide to treat visible weeds, especially broadleaf varieties like dandelions and plantain. Be careful not to overspray on hot days — early morning or late evening works best.
2. Mow High and Often
Longer grass shades out weed seeds and strengthens root systems. Set your mower to 3–3.5 inches and keep blades sharp.
3. Water Deep, Not Often
Healthy lawns resist weeds better. Water 1–1.5 inches per week (including rainfall) in one or two deep soakings.
4. Prepare for Fall Aeration & Overseeding
Late summer is the time to start planning fall lawn renovations. Aerating your lawn in early fall and overseeding with quality grass seed will help crowd out future weeds.
5. Mulch Beds and Edges
A 2–3 inch layer of mulch in flower beds helps prevent weed growth and keeps roots cool as temperatures fluctuate.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Weed seeds spread fast, and by fall, the ground starts to cool — reducing the effectiveness of most weed control treatments. Taking the time now to manage problem areas sets you up for a healthier, greener spring lawn.
Need Help With Lawn Care?
Tri-State Outdoor Living provides expert weed control and lawn maintenance services across the Chicago area. Whether you need one-time treatment or a year-round plan, we’re here to keep your yard looking its best.
📞 Contact us today for a free consultation or to schedule a late-summer service.
