Timing is Key for Pre-Emergent Weed Control
Forsythia is the sign!
Forsythia will be blooming soon, and it is a great sign of when to apply pre-emergent herbicide because the soil is the right temperature. What is a Forsythia? It is one of the first signs of spring in our area — that bush with yellow flowers that typically blooms in the middle of February — also known as Yellow Bell.
If you do not have a Forsythia bush to signal you, apply pre-emergent between February 15th and March 1st to kill weeds before you see them. Any later than that window and it is too late to kill weeds with a pre-emergent herbicide (you will have to switch to a post-emergent to apply directly to the weeds).
What is the purpose of Pre-Emergent Weed Control?
Pre-emergent weed control is designed to prevent a variety of weeds BEFORE they appear. This is achieved by applying a protective layer of pre-emergent herbicide to your lawn, preventing the weeds from penetrating the soil barrier.
When Should I Apply Pre-Emergent Weed Control?
Throughout areas of the southeast, like Clayton, NC, it is important to apply pre-emergent weed control during the right time of year. If the herbicide is not applied prior to germination, it is not effective. This means the protective barrier MUST be applied before weeds have opportunity to germinate.
At Carolina Curb Appeal , we like to apply the first round of pre-emergent before "the dogwoods start blooming". It can be weather dependent, but typically the best time to apply a pre-emergent weed control treatment in Johnston County and surrounding areas in the southeast is during the months of February and March.
After March, you will be less likely to see good results from a pre-emergent weed treatment. The exception here of course, would be if it had been a particularly cold season, leaving seeds dormant longer.
How Long Does Pre-Emergent Weed Control Last?
Typically, you can expect one treatment to last 3-5 months, depending on the product used. To maximize effectiveness, applying a split application is recommended. It is also important to select a good product. If you are planning to try and treat your lawn yourself, always be sure to read the labels, so you understand how long the manufacturer suggests their product lasts.
What Types of Weeds Does Pre-Emergent Weed Control Treat?
Pre-emergent weed control is effective prior to germination on most all summer annual weed varieties. This includes common weeds like crabgrass.
Can Pre-Emergent Weed Control Harm My Lawn?
Pre-emergent weed control is not harmful to your lawn. If you plan to plant new seeds for ornamental plants to compliment your landscape, or new grass seed to your lawn, treatment should not be applied to those areas prior to germination.
Contact the landscape professionals at Carolina Curb Appeal today for a free estimate and get a jump on your weed control before they appear!
