A ‘How to Kill Weeds’ Tip That’ll Stop You From Wasting Money

Plus lawn care tips for super lush greenness.

Rain drops in puddles on concrete pavers and potted plants
Image: Timotical/Getty

This May, do more for your landscaping and curb appeal. 

Follow these three lawn care tips:

#1 Don't Use Weed Killers on a Rainy Day

Is the weather forecast calling for rain or wind? Don't waste your weed killer. Instead, wait for a still, sunny day so the product won't blow into the wrong areas (killing plants you want to keep) or get washed into storm sewers that feed water supplies.

#2 Stop Cutting Your Grass Too Short

Lawn chairs in a back yard with grass cut too short
Image: PhotoAlto/Eric Audras/Getty

It seems like cutting the grass shorter would equal cutting it less frequently. You may mow less, but only because your ugly, brown lawn isn't growing at all. Too-short grass starves the roots, killing the poor plant. So set your blades for three inches. You'll save yourself a heck of a reseeding bill.

#3 Don't Bag Lawn Cuttings

Four garbage bags full of lawn clippings on drive way
Image: Oushie/Getty

If you're spending hours raking up lawn cuttings after mowing, you can stop without an iota of guilt. Grass cuttings are natural compost; as they break down, they enrich the soil, making your grass greener. Less time with the rake, more time on the patio — it's a win-win.

Related: Do Home Remedies for Organic Lawn Care Really Work?

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Kelley Walters

Kelley Walters is a Southern writer and editor. She focuses on interior design and home improvement at outlets from HGTV to Paintzen. She lives in Italy a month every year, drinking Negronis and writing in internet cafes.