Why weeds grow so fast

Weeds that grow from root systems that have been alive for years are called perennials. Perennial weeds grow fast and are harder to kill than annual weeds, which grow from seeds every year. Typically, perennial roots contain lots of stored energy that help their shoots grow very quickly, making this kind of weed particularly difficult to control. Dormant weeds in your yard have acclimated to the soil, while your store-bought seedlings may take time to adjust to soil conditions, thereby taking a little more time to germinate.

When the condition is right, have enough water and warm weather, weeds can grow 1 to 2 inches in a day. The 2-inch growth may sound insignificant, but when the weed sends out a blade of leaves in every direction, the growth on each blade escalates from a minor nuisance into a major weed. Besides, weeds with short life cycles, such as chickweed, move from germination, flowering to seedling and dying in a month and half weeks.

How many dandelions do you think you have in your lawn? If there are 50 plants, just think of those 50, new dandelions that can sprout from all those seeds. While they may be bullies to plants, weeds have also inspired some interesting ideas. You never know what might inspire a great idea or when that idea will strike.

Search for:. Videos Activities Podcasts. A race to the top The weed seeds are already in the garden soil. Seeds in the breeze Dandelions are one kind of perennial. These factors can account for the fact that weeds seem to be growing a lot faster than your grass. Weeds get a head start on growth, thrive in the local climate, and are capable of growing extremely quickly.

The good news is, your plants are capable of similar growth in ideal conditions many lawn grasses can grow an inch or more in a day if given the proper set of circumstances.

If you create a watering schedule that benefits your desired plants, they can compete with weeds. A healthy lawn and garden can even resist weed invasion because there are fewer places for weeds to sprout. Weeds grow quickly in our lawns and gardens because many species of weeds sprout from large underground roots that give them an energy boost in spring. Weeds also thrive because local weed species are adapted to their climate.

Additionally, weeds have short lifespans, requiring them to progress from germination to flowering in very little time. Keep a close eye out. Weeds can grow extremely quickly, overtaking a yard or garden in a matter of days or weeks if not controlled early. Use the old fashioned pull out technique. A good landscaping fabric will smother the underground weeds and make it near impossible for airborne weeds to establish.

Outnumber the weeds. Plant as much as you can! Planting thick dense plants will ensure the weeds that come up from the ground are shaded by other plants.