Weeds aren't just unattractive nuisances. They are competitive invaders that steal nutrients, water and sunlight from your lawn. In many cases, they even put out chemicals in the soil that actually inhibit the healthy growth of grasses and other nearby plants. Weeds are good at surviving and thriving; some-like dandelions-can create seeds without benefit of pollination! That's why it's important to take steps to control them before they gain control of your lawn.

"Some people ignore weeds until they completely take over a yard," said John Pailthorp, Spectrum Brands Senior Marketing Manager. "But with a regular program of weed control and fertilizing, anyone can enjoy a weed-free lawn."

The best defense against weeds is a good offense, creating a thick, healthy lawn that minimizes opportunities for weeds to take hold. Thin, poorly growing turf is not only an open invitation to all kinds of weeds, but it's a clear sign that something isn't right in your lawn's world. Compacted, poorly draining soil, excessively acidic or alkaline soil, or low nutrient levels are all conditions that cause grass to struggle and weeds to flourish. If your grass is crying for help, get a do-it-yourself soil test kit or have your soil tested, and make any amendments recommended to your lawn to provide the healthy soil it needs.

Aggressive broadleaf weeds can taint even healthy lawns. The easiest and most effective way to eliminate these unwanted intruders is to use a "selective" broadleaf weed killer (one that targets only the weed, leaving the surrounding turf unharmed) such as Vigoro® Ultra TurfT Lawn Weed Control. Some products, such as Vigoro Ultra Turf Weed & Feed, combine the weed killer with a fertilizer, allowing you to accomplish two jobs at the same time. Here are some tips to get the best results from your granular broadleaf weed killer or weed-and-feed application:

• Mow the lawn a day or two before application. This will stimulate weed growth, making them more vulnerable to the herbicide.
• Apply the granular product when the lawn is slightly damp, either after watering, rain, or in the morning when dew is present. Don't apply if rain is anticipated, and don't water after application. The granules are most effective when they stick to the weed leaves.
• Limit traffic on treated areas for 1-2 days to avoid knocking granules from the leaves. The longer the product stays in contact with the leaves, the greater its effectiveness.
• Choose products that control a wide variety of weed types and are right for your specific area. Some, like Vigoro Ultra Turf Weed & Feed control over 200 varieties of broadleaf weeds, for those who can't identify the specific weeds in their lawns.

• Set the mower higher. Taller grass will shade out and discourage weeds.
• Don't over water in the spring. Excessive shallow watering promotes weed-seed germination.
• If you regularly core aerate your lawn, do it in the fall. Springtime aerating may bring dormant weeds seeds to the surface.
• St. Augustine, Zoysia, Centipede and Carpetgrass require a different weed control and application techniques.