Why You Should Use a Pre-Emergent

 

Is it always weed season in Texas? Sometimes it sure feels that way! We generally deal with both cool-season and warm-season weeds, and as one group begins to fade, another can be getting ready to take its place.

The best place to start with weed control is understanding what you’re up against. Many weeds are capable of producing large numbers of seeds, and those seeds can remain in the soil waiting for the right conditions to germinate.

 

 
 

What Is a Pre-Emergent?

 

One tool for managing annual weeds in lawns and landscape beds is a pre-emergent herbicide.

Pre-emergents work by creating a herbicide barrier near the soil surface that prevents susceptible weeds from successfully establishing as their seeds begin to germinate. They generally do not kill weeds that are already actively growing, which is why timing is so important.

Granular pre-emergents typically need to be watered into the soil after application to activate the product, but always follow the particular product label for application and watering instructions.

 
 

When Should You Apply Pre-Emergent?

 

Don’t rely solely on a calendar date. Pre-emergent needs to be in place before the targeted weed seeds begin germinating, and that timing can shift from year to year depending on soil temperatures and weather.

In East Texas, applications aimed at warm-season annual weeds are generally made as soil begins approaching the temperatures that trigger spring germination. Applications targeting cool-season annual weeds are made ahead of their fall germination period.

Depending on the product and weeds you’re targeting, additional applications may be needed to maintain control. Always follow the product label for application timing, rates, reapplication intervals, and the types of turf or landscape areas where it can be used.

 

 
 

Choosing the Right Pre-Emergent

 

There are several active ingredients used in pre-emergent herbicides, including dithiopyr, commonly sold under products using the trade name Dimension®. The right product depends on the weeds you’re trying to prevent, where you’re applying it, and the type of lawn or landscape plants in the area.

Before applying any herbicide, read the label carefully. Make sure the product is labeled for your particular turfgrass or landscape area and for the weeds you’re trying to prevent.

Also pay close attention to restrictions involving newly seeded lawns, overseeding, sod, ornamental plants, and edible gardens. Pre-emergents can interfere with the establishment of desirable plants from seed, too!

 
 

Stop Weeds Before They Start!

 

Pre-emergent won’t eliminate every weed, but when it’s applied correctly and at the right time, it can significantly reduce the number of annual weeds you have to deal with later.

And let’s face it—preventing weeds before they become established is a whole lot easier than spending your weekend pulling them!