The rains have passed on, the sun is out, and lots of new green is showing up in lawns and gardens. If you’re worried that some of that green might be weeds, quick action is the key for stopping them before they have a chance to sprout. Now is the best time to use the secret weapon of gardeners and landscapers for stopping weeds before they take control – pre-emergent herbicides.
What are pre-emergent herbicides?
Pre-emergent herbicides are chemicals that prevent weed growth in lawns, gardens and commercial properties. Due to the way these herbicides work, application timing is crucial since it will only work if applied BEFORE weed seeds have sprouted.
Weed seeds exist in almost all lawns and gardens. Many weed seeds remain dormant for years before they begin to grow, since they must reach the soil’s surface and receive the proper amount of sunlight and moisture before they germinate. This makes it pretty much impossible to prevent weed seeds from invading your lawn, so the best way to get rid of weeds is to use something that a pre-emergent to control them.
Pre-emergents establish a chemical barrier that prevents weeds from successfully growing. That barrier only lasts about six to eight weeks, so you need to be strategic about when you apply the pre-emergents to your lawn for the best results.
When is the best time to apply pre-emergents?
Early Spring and Fall are the most effective times to apply pre-emergent herbicides since most weeds sprout during those two seasons. Spring applications target different weed species than Fall applications, so scheduling two applications a year at the beginning of each season is best.
How to apply pre-emergent herbicides
Pre-emergent herbicides come in either granule or liquid formulations. If you use granular pre-emergent herbicide it is very important to water after applying to help it soak into the soil. This is also true with liquid formulas because grass and other plants may keep it from reaching the soil.
Herbicides are chemicals, so proper care in handling them is necessary. Be sure to closely follow manufacturer instructions, including those for use, safety, clothing, protective gear, storage and disposal. Always wear gloves appropriate for this type of task in addition to long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, rubber boots and any safety gear specified by the herbicide manufacturer when applying these chemicals. Wash out all clothing separately from other household laundry after use.
Be sure to use only the recommended amount of herbicide and keep children and pets away from the treated areas for the recommended time according to product labeling. In between applications, store pre-emergents in a cool, dry and dark place where children, pets or other animals cannot get to them.
Luis’s Nursery carries pre-emergent herbicides perfect for gardens, lawns and commercial properties in Visalia and throughout Tulare County. We invite you to visit us at 139 S. Mariposa Ave. in Visalia and our experienced staff can help you find exactly what you need right away.
