Radio Transcript
August 31st, 2026
Tanner Collier

Hello, this is Tanner Collier, the Horticulture Agent with Burke County Cooperative Extension. Today, we are going to discuss the importance of “late summer weeding.”

As we head toward the end of summer, it is very important to stay on top of weeds growing around your property. The main types of weeds that will be growing are grassy weeds, broadleaf weeds, and sedges. This is the time of year that these weeds will start to form and disperse seeds. Controlling weeds is vital during this time and can be done by using a herbicide or by hand pulling. Remember, it is best to control weeds before they go to seed so you minimize the chance of seeds surviving and dispersing. If not removed before this, then the never-ending battle with weeds will continue.

When weeds produce their seeds, they can be dispersed throughout your entire yard. After this, the seeds find themselves a home in the soil where they will be dormant throughout winter. In the spring, these seeds will break dormancy and germinate, but not all of them. Weed seeds can remain dormant within the soil for well over a decade. So, each year you let weeds go to seed and let them disperse, the more seeds that will remain in your soil for a longer amount of time. This is why we struggle with fighting the same type of weeds year after year. But don’t worry, start weeding today and cut down on the weed seed build up in your yard!

This has been Tanner Collier, with Burke County Cooperative Extension. If you have any questions or want more information you can contact us at (828) 764-9480.