Common Oklahoma Weeds and How to Remove Them Effectively

Oklahoma's climate creates ideal conditions for aggressive weed growth. From Johnson grass to crabgrass to dandelions, weeds can quickly take over lawns, flowerbeds, and gravel areas if not properly controlled.

Homeowners in Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Edmond, Norman, Moore, Broken Arrow, and surrounding areas face a constant battle against weeds. This guide helps you identify the most common Oklahoma weeds and provides effective removal strategies.

Why Weeds Thrive in Oklahoma

Oklahoma's weather patterns create perfect conditions for weeds:

• Abundant rainfall (36+ inches annually in many areas)
• Warm summers that encourage rapid growth
• Mild winters that allow some weeds to survive year-round
• Fertile soil that supports aggressive weed species
• Frequent storms that spread weed seeds

Understanding these conditions helps you develop an effective weed control strategy.

Most Common Oklahoma Weeds

1. Crabgrass

Crabgrass is one of the most widespread weeds in Oklahoma lawns. It spreads quickly and can choke out desirable grass.

Characteristics:

• Low-growing, spreading habit
• Light green color
• Grows in patches
• Thrives in thin or bare lawn areas

Removal: Pre-emergent herbicides applied in early spring, or post-emergent treatments for existing plants. Hand-pulling works for small patches.

2. Johnson Grass

Johnson grass is a tall, aggressive perennial weed that's difficult to control once established.

Characteristics:

• Can grow 6-8 feet tall
• Thick, spreading rhizomes
• Competes aggressively with lawn grass
• Common in Oklahoma City and Tulsa areas

Removal: Requires persistent treatment with selective herbicides. Professional removal is often necessary for established patches.

3. Dandelions

Dandelions are familiar to most homeowners and spread quickly through wind-blown seeds.

Characteristics:

• Yellow flowers that turn to white seed heads
• Deep taproots
• Broad, toothed leaves
• Appear in spring and fall

Removal: Spot treatment with broadleaf herbicides, or careful hand-pulling to remove the entire root.

4. Bindweed

Bindweed is a vining weed that wraps around plants and structures.

Characteristics:

• Twining vines that climb
• White or pink trumpet-shaped flowers
• Extensive root system
• Difficult to eradicate

Removal: Requires systemic herbicides. Multiple treatments are usually necessary.

5. Spurge

Spurge is a low-growing weed that forms dense mats in lawns and flowerbeds.

Characteristics:

• Prostrate growth habit
• Small, oval leaves
• Milky sap when broken
• Common in compacted soil areas

Removal: Pre-emergent treatments in spring, or post-emergent herbicides for existing plants.

6. Clover

While some homeowners consider clover beneficial, it can become invasive in lawns.

Characteristics:

• Three-leaf clusters
• White or pink flowers
• Spreads through stolons
• Thrives in low-nitrogen soil

Removal: Broadleaf herbicides or improving lawn health to outcompete clover.

How Weeds Spread in Oklahoma

Understanding how weeds spread helps you prevent them:

• Wind-blown seeds from neighboring properties
• Seeds carried by birds and animals
• Underground rhizomes and stolons
• Seeds in contaminated soil or mulch
• Seeds tracked in on shoes or equipment
• Storm runoff carrying seeds from other areas

Prevention Strategies

Preventing weeds is easier than removing them:

1. Pre-Emergent Herbicides

Apply pre-emergent treatments in early spring (February–March) before weeds germinate. This creates a barrier that prevents weed seeds from sprouting.

2. Maintain Healthy Lawns

Thick, healthy grass crowds out weeds:

• Regular mowing at proper height
• Appropriate fertilization
• Adequate watering
• Overseeding thin areas

3. Proper Mowing Practices

Mowing correctly helps prevent weeds:

• Don't cut grass too short
• Keep mower blades sharp
• Mow regularly to prevent seed heads from forming
• Remove clippings if they contain weed seeds

4. Mulch and Landscape Fabric

In flowerbeds and around trees:

• Apply 2-3 inches of mulch
• Use landscape fabric under mulch
• Refresh mulch annually
• Choose weed-free mulch sources

Removal Methods

Hand-Pulling

Effective for small areas and young weeds:

• Pull when soil is moist
• Remove entire root system
• Dispose of weeds properly
• Best for isolated patches

Post-Emergent Herbicides

For existing weeds:

• Selective herbicides target specific weeds
• Non-selective herbicides kill all plants
• Follow label instructions carefully
• Apply at the right time of year

Professional Weed Control

Professional services offer:

• Expert identification of weed types
• Proper herbicide selection and application
• Consistent treatment schedules
• Long-term weed management plans

Weed Control in Different Areas

Lawns

For lawn weeds:

• Use selective herbicides that won't harm grass
• Apply pre-emergent in spring
• Spot-treat individual weeds
• Maintain healthy turf to prevent reinfestation

Flowerbeds

For garden weeds:

• Hand-pull or use targeted herbicides
• Apply mulch to suppress weeds
• Use landscape fabric
• Regular weeding sessions

Gravel Areas

For gravel and rock areas:

• Pre-emergent treatments
• Post-emergent spot treatments
• Regular inspection and removal
• Prevent soil buildup in gravel

Timing Matters

Effective weed control requires proper timing:

• Early spring: Apply pre-emergent herbicides
• Late spring: Treat early-emerging weeds
• Summer: Maintain control with spot treatments
• Fall: Apply fall pre-emergent for winter annuals

Get Professional Weed Control in Oklahoma

If weeds are taking over your yard, professional weed control services can help. Yard Maintenance connects you with local professionals who understand Oklahoma's weed challenges and can develop an effective control plan for your property.