Dandelion, broad leaf weed control resumes this fall

Medicine Hat – In an effort to control the spread of dandelions and other broad leaf weeds, the City of Medicine Hat will continue with a fall control program scheduled to begin later in the year.

“Our research has found that broad leaf weeds, including dandelions, are more efficiently controlled during this period, which leads to less weed growth and spread come the following spring,” said Dave Genio, Parks Manager with the City of Medicine Hat.

Staff first initiated this method of weed control in several locations in the fall of 2021 as part of the City’s integrated pest management program.

“Initial results from this control technique late last year prove to be promising,” Genio added. “It’s our hope that by doing a fall control, we are able to reduce the requirement for additional control methods in the future.”

Staff perform regular checks on the number of weeds in park locations before a more in-depth control program begins. An improved fertilization program, as well as over-seeding in park areas, began in 2018. These methods continue to allow turf to thrive and become a healthy competitor for nuisance weeds.

In locations where staff discover a high influx of these particular weeds, applications ahead of the fall program will occur based on park classifications. Areas of concern brought forward by residents will be prioritized in an overall control program scheduled for this summer.

“We also know that dandelions provide more flowers for bees to pollinate,” Genio added. “We want to thank residents for their patience as we continue the fall program.”

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