But having the right tool isn't the only path to a weed-free yard. According to Miller, there are plenty of tips to make pulling weeds less of a backbreaking, sweat-inducing affair:

- It's much easier to remove a weed when the soil is moist. Wait until after a light rain to minimize your effort.

- Once you pull a weed, don't let it lay on the grass, or it may spread its seeds and sprout a whole new generation of weeds.

- Allowing your lawn to grow a little taller than usual helps crowd out weeds. Dandelions and other common broadleaf weeds can't compete with vigorously growing grass plants.

- Keep in mind that many weeds grow when soil becomes compacted, such as on play areas or lawns with regular foot traffic.

- Weeds move in when grass is sparse. If shade prevents grass growth, consider laying shade-tolerant groundcovers instead, such as bark or gravel over landscaping fabric.

- When looking for a weed-pulling tool, prevent stress on your back by choosing one that doesn't require bending or stooping.

- If you must use chemicals, be sure to follow all directions carefully. Overuse can be expensive, and misuse can do more harm than good.

- Adding two inches of peat moss to the top six inches of dirt in your garden makes pulling weeds easier because it loosens the soil.

- Try to avoid damaging the turf or leaving a large divot when removing weeds. If the removal of a large weed does leave a gap in the lawn, borrow a proven technique used by golf courses: Level the soil and sprinkle grass seed into the bare spot before another weed gets a chance to germinate.

For more backyard tips, visit www.hound-dog.com .

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