Dandelion season is here

These weeds are not harmful to pets, lawns or gardens

The sun is shining, the bees are buzzing and dandelions have started popping up just about everywhere. Peak growing season for these persistent weeds is happening now and will last until June. While they can be an eyesore, dandelions are not harmful to your pets, lawn or garden – they are a part of Vaughan’s natural landscape and are an important food source for pollinators. 

Try these tips from the City of Vaughan’s Parks, Forestry and Horticulture Operations department to help manage dandelions on your property:

• Raise your lawn mower blades to three or four inches (7.6 or 10 centimetres) – taller grass will shade out weeds and prevent them from germinating.

• Overseed and topdress your lawn with compost – overseeding ensures weeds do not have room to take root, and compost adds nutrients and structure to the soil.

• Aerate your lawn in spring – this will loosen soil to allow water and air penetration to keep roots healthy.

• Add white clover to seed mix – white clover is a low-growing, hardy plant that adds nitrogen to the soil and helps regulate plant growth.

• Fertilize your lawn in the spring and fall – healthy lawns are thicker and can shade out weeds.

• Water deeply, but only when needed. Refer to Vaughan’s outdoor water use restrictions and schedules for when to water. 

  • Grass requires one inch (2.5 centimetres) of water per week (during dry periods). For the best results, water in the early mornings or evenings.

  • Use sprinklers or soaker hoses that keep water low to the ground. 

  • Long and slow soakings will lead to a more drought-resistant lawn.

What the City is doing to control dandelion growth
To control dandelions in City parks, boulevards, sports fields and other green spaces, crews regularly cut grass in these areas to keep the weeds at a minimum. The first grass cutting rotation begins Monday, April 29. However, even with frequent cuts, some areas may appear unkempt as weeds tend to grow faster than grass. To protect the environment, the City implemented a Pesticide By-law (PDF) to regulate the use of herbicides to control weeds like dandelions on public and private property. 

For more information, visit the City’s Grass Cutting and Weeds webpage.