Question
We recently built a new home. I prepared the soil for planting, and broadcasted grass seed, and before the grass seed sprouted, a ton of weeds grew. I have small grass blades growing under the weeds. What can I do to gain control of my lawn? I live in Cable, Ohio which is approx. 45 miles west of Columbus.

Answer
If the weeds are grassy weeds, e.g. weeds are different grass types than the one planted, control can be difficult now.

If the weeds are broadleaf weeds, e.g. such as dandelion, clover, thissle and other broadleaf weeds (e.g. the weeds do not look like grass) then you can in most cases control these.

Buy a spray bottle named "Round-Up" (by Ortho). On the lable you can see how soon you can use this after seeding. Follow lable directions. Once safe to use, you can spray the broadleaf weeds which will die in a few days. The grass will remain and will grow through the dead weeds (which can be selectively removed if you like).

Note: use the spray products on calm days as it can damage flowers and shrubs if it drifts, and always use as directed. use protective clothing and always apply while temperatures are between 55F and 80F. Above 80F, the herbicide tend to become volitile and can kill grass. I prefer to use on cloudy days.

Ortho's Weed-B-Gon comes in spray bottles, or in concentrated liquid bottles which attaches to your gardenhose, and when you can then use your garden sprinkler to water your lawn (or walk over the lawn using the garden hose + bottle as a handheld sprayer). If you use one of the two latter ones, then pay special attention to not hitting flower beds.