Pre-Emergent Weed Control
You’ve probably hear the term “Pre-Emergent Weed Control” thrown around by lawn care professionals. You have an idea of what it is, but can’t say you’re certain.
No problem. Today we’ll tackle everything you need to know about pre-emergent weed control and how it can help you keep your lawn beautiful.
First, Some Weed Basics
Every year, thousands of seeds produced by the previous year’s weed plants make their way to your lawn. They’re either carried by the wind, animals or humans.
These seeds sit in the thatch layer slowly making their way into the soil where they patiently wait for the right ground temperature to trigger germination.
The best way to combat grassy weeds such as crabgrass is to catch them in this state: Before they emerge, in other words, before they germinate and become pesky plants that ruin your beautiful lawn.
What Is Pre-Emergent Weed Control?
Pre-emergent weed control is the best way to combat crabgrass.
Pre-emergent weed control products are applied early in the spring before the temperature gets warm, so you’re sure to eliminate most of the crabgrass seeds.
These products usually offer 70 to 90 days protection, depending upon the weather. This means that it will reduce crabgrass germination for up to 90 days.
What Should I Ask My Lawn Care Professional When Requesting Pre-Emergent Weed Control?
Make sure you ask them how many applications of pre-emergent they offer in their program. This is very important.
As we stated above, pre-emergent protection lasts 90 days. If your first pre-emergent weed control application takes place in early spring (April), coverage will be over by July, which is the height of warm weather and optimal conditions for crabgrass growth.
In order to keep crabgrass at bay, you really need two re-emergent weed control applications during the year. Be careful though, most lawn care companies don’t provide this. They usually offer one pre-emergent weed application divided in two, which isn’t as effective. With Lawn-A-Mat you get two full pre-emergent crabgrass applications for season long coverage!
Do I Need to Do Anything Else Besides Apply Pre-Emergent Weed Control?
Yes, you do! Like everything involving lawn care, it’s always a matter of working as a team with your lawn care expert and doing the little things that in the end add up to a lot.
Don’t rake, aerate or dig in the area that has the pre-emergent barrier. Try to keep it intact.
Water your lawn appropriately to keep the soil from drying or cracking. For more information on how to water your lawn visit our Website at www.lawnamat.net/watering
Do core aeration until later in the season. If you don’t know what this is, visit our Website at www.lawnamat.net/services for more info.
Cut you grass at the appropriate height. If you go too short, it thins the grass and makes it easier for weeds such as crabgrass to flourish. For tips on how to mow your lawn correctly, visit our Website at www. www.lawnamat.net/mowing
Avoid using string trimmers and blade edgers. These tools tear the grass, cut it unevenly and make it easier for weeds to jump in and start growing. We have a great article on this on our blog. After reading it you’ll be a Grass Cutting Samurai! Here’s the link: https://www.lawnamat.net/single-post/2018/01/20/Mowing-Tips-for-a-Healthy-Lawn
Consider core aeration and spike seeding to thicken your turfgrass and make it harder for weeds to become a problem. If you want more information on both of these applications, visit our Website at www.lawnamat.net/services
As always, if you have questions feel free to call us at (201) 891-4131 or (845) 986-8836. We specialize in lawns in Bergen & Passaic Counties in New Jersey and Orange & Rockland Counties in New York. Lawn A Mat has been servicing these areas since 1961, so we can guide you in the right direction. Don’t hesitate to call!
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