How to win the war against weeds

Perennials: Yank 'em out young - roots and all

With perennials, it is essential to get all of the plant out of the ground. When perennial weeds are tender seedlings, they can usually be pulled up by hand with ease, especially when the soil is moist. But the more time you allow these weeds to take hold, the harder they are to eradicate. The least bit of Bermuda grass rhizome left behind can sprout into a new plant.

The best time to weed is shortly after a rain or an irrigation cycle. Hand-pulling is the quickest method. If the weeds don't yield easily or if they detach from the roots when you pull, switch to a trowel or dandelion weeder and dig or pry them out.