- 1). Look at the weeds to see whether they are grass-like or broadleaf species. Grass-like weeds blend in with turf more readily, but can often be seen due to a tendency to grow in a nonuniform pattern. Broadleaf weeds do not look like turf at all and can easily be discerned by the different physical appearance of leaves.
- 2). Take note of specific characteristics such as plant height, leaf shape and length. Leaves or blades may be smooth or rough, some may have hairs on one or both sides and the edges may be round, jagged or even. These properties change from one weed to the next and so provide an accurate means of identification.
- 3). Find any flowers or seeds that will identify the weed species in your lawn. For example, several weeds in Georgia have white or yellow flowers such as Asiatic Hawksbeard (Youngia japonica), Black Medic (Medicago lupulin), and Spring Starflower (Ipheion uniflorum). Seeds may appear as heads with many seeds growing together, or as thin, finger-like protrusions from the top of the plant. Other plants have seeds at the end of silky hairs meant to carry the seeds on the wind, such as the those found on dandelions.
- 4). Visit a reputable website, such as that of Georgia University (see Resources). Peruse the weed listings using the information you have acquired to narrow down the possibilities. Websites with both descriptions and pictures prove most helpful to positively identify a weed. Some extension offices may also have printed material available to assist you in weed identification.
- 5). Remove a weed sample from your lawn and take it to the local extension office for identification if you are unable to determine its species. Visit the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension website (see Resources) for a list of country offices throughout Georgia.
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