Fiesta Weed Control

Posted on: May 15, 2023Raunie

Introduction

Fiesta weed control is the only product available to use in Ontario. It is a natural, iron-based product that specially designed to suppress existing weeds with minimal effect on the surrounding grass. Prior to 2009, when the provincial legislation came into effect, there was a chemical pesticide that was systemic. Systemic weed control works internally and effectively eliminates the weed but also kills any surrounding weed seeds that are not germinated. Fiesta, on the other hand, is defined as a topical weed control. What this means is that when applied it will eliminate the existing weed but unfortunately it does not kill any of the seeds in the surrounding soil. Below we have listed the main categories of weeds that are on our Ontario lawns and how fiesta works so we can maximize the products ability to control weeds throughout your grass.

Broadleaf Weeds

Examples of broadleaf weeds are dandelions, Thistles, and plantain. These weeds have a centralized tap root. These weeds are easier for Fiesta to work on because, if the lawn is cut regularly, there is direct access to the root where the product and work its magic. Our Fiesta is mixed at a rate that, when sprayed, you will see the effect of the weed control within a few hours to up to 2 weeks and the weed will look burnt as it is absorbing the product.

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate depending on volume of these types of weeds on the property

Creeping Weeds

Examples of creeping weeds are Wild Violet, Creeping Charlie, Purslane, and clover. These weeds have individual root system per stem and because of the creeping nature of these weeds they are more difficult to control with Fiesta. The leaf span is much smaller on these types resulting in less surface area for the product to be absorbed. Also, with a creeping root system there is a lot longer of a distance to travel to get down to the root under the soil. Patience is key with this type of weed but all hope is not lost, it does require multiple applications in order to keep them under control.

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Difficult

Best Lawn practices to reduce and crowd out weeds in your lawn

Now, you might be asking, if Fiesta is the only product that can legally be used, how can I help manage the weeds on my property to maximize results? Often there are other issues that can be contributing to the level of weeds on your property.

Overseeding

The number one best defense is… you guessed it… overseeding! By filling in bare or thin areas there will be less room for the weeds to grow. We always recommend at least 1 seeding per year; however, if you have a large volume of weeds throughout overseeding both in the Spring and the Fall will significantly help speed up the process.

Adding Top Soil

Also, it is recommended applying additional top soil every 2 – 3 years. this reintroduces organic nutrients back into the soil and creates a comfortable area for healthy grass to grow.

Cutting and Watering

Watering your lawn regularly (i.e. at least twice per week for an hour in each spot during the summer months) and cutting at the recommended height of 2.5 – 3 inches will also help maintain a healthy environment for the grass to grow strong and out compete the weeds on the property.

Conclusion

REMEMBER: the longer the lawn has been in less than ideal shape the longer it will take to repair and recover. Lawns are living, breathing things that require regular maintenance in order to stay healthy and happy – Just like us!