Safe Ways to Kill Crabgrass with Pre-Emergents
As warm weather returns, lawns begin to grow again after dormancy. While this renewal is welcomed, it also brings back persistent weeds like crabgrass. You know, that pesky weed that seems to pop up overnight and turn your beautiful green lawn into a patchy mess. This invasive plant can quickly take control of your yard if you don’t pay attention to it.
On the other hand, if you jump on the action early, using pre-emergent herbicides can keep crabgrass under control. At Lawn Sense in Dallas, we offer specialized pre-emergent treatments to keep your lawns thriving. Let us guide you in managing lawn care and successfully killing crabgrass with pre-emergent herbicides.
What Is Crabgrass?
Crabgrass is a kind of weed that can be considered the ninja of the plant world. It thrives in dry, hot conditions and can spread faster than lightning speed. It produces seeds that can remain viable for several years, making it a long-term problem without intervention.
Crabgrass gets its name from its weird growth pattern, spreading out like a crab’s legs (outward rather than upward) instead of growing up like well-behaved grass. Its uneven, clumpy growth makes a mess of a well-maintained lawn’s smooth, uniform look. You can spot it right away. You can spot it right away.
Why You Should Care
This isn’t just about looks (though, trust us, it’ll make your lawn look pretty rough). Crabgrass is like that annoying house guest who shows up uninvited and starts taking over.
It competes with your good grass, stealing nutrients and space. Left unchecked, it’ll turn your carefully maintained lawn into a weed playground, becoming harder to control over time.
The Best Way to Kill Crabgrass with Pre-Emergent Herbicides
Are you looking for a crabgrass battle plan? Don’t worry; You’re not defenseless! Here are some tried-and-true ways to show crabgrass who’s the boss:
1. Apply the Herbicide (Your Secret Weapon)
Herbicides provide a powerful way to combat crabgrass. They stop crabgrass seeds from even getting started.
Use pre-emergents for broader or recurring issues. If you have severe infestations, you may need to do multiple applications.
For the application in itself, spread the herbicide evenly across the affected area. Uneven application can leave spots untreated, and you know what happens afterward.
2. Hands-On Approach
Do you have a small patch? Roll up your sleeves and pull it out manually. Just make sure you get the entire root to prevent regrowth. These weeds are persistent!
You can also burn isolated areas, but please note that this carries risks. Before attempting this method, it would be best to always consider weather conditions and surrounding vegetation.
3. Reseed the Area
Wait two to four months after treatment before planting new grass. Follow proper watering and mowing practices to encourage healthy growth.
Practical Tips to Kill Crabgrass with Pre-emergents
Here are some practical tips you should consider before, during, and after the application.
1. Timing Matters
Apply pre-emergent herbicides before crabgrass seeds germinate. In Dallas, this often coincides with the blooming of lilac bushes.
The proper application stops weed growth at its source. This allows for reseeding after a waiting period of two to four months.
2. Check Weather Conditions
Apply herbicides when it is supposed to rain. That’s because pre-emergent herbicides require water to activate. You can also plan to water the lawn after application.
3. Measure the Lawn
Take your time to calculate your lawn’s area accurately. Follow the product’s instructions to mix the correct amount of herbicide for the space.
4. Safety Precautions
Wear protective clothing when handling herbicides. Think lawn warrior gear such as gloves, long pants, and long sleeves. Apply the product on calm days to avoid spills.
Also, as a word of caution, don’t go crazy with chemicals. Spot treat when possible, and consider organic options like corn gluten meal if you’re concerned about environmental impact.
How to Prevent Crabgrass from Spreading
Lawn care is self-care (for your yard). Here are some practical ways to maintain your lawn health:
Act Early
Apply pre-emergent herbicides in early spring to stop crabgrass before it starts. This proactive approach helps you manage the weed easily.
Fill Bare Spots
Keep your grass healthy and thick. So, fill in bare spots quickly. Plant grass seed in open areas promptly to prevent weeds from taking over.
Water Deeply
Water deeply and consistently. Weekly deep watering encourages strong root systems.
Avoid Aerating After Pre-Emergents
Regular maintenance strengthens grass and keeps weeds at bay. However, aeration can break the barrier created by the herbicide. So, fertilize or compost it in the Fall, as building soil quality discourages crabgrass growth.
Keep Grass at Optimal Height
Mow at the right height (about 2-3 inches). Maintaining grass at this height shades out weeds.
Stay Watchful and Reapply Pre-Emergents as Needed
Check your lawn frequently for signs of crabgrass and address it immediately. Consistent treatment with pre-emergent herbicides keeps crabgrass in check.
Lawn Sense to Kill Crabgrass with Pre-Emergents
Beating crabgrass isn’t about one big battle; it’s about consistent, strategic lawn care. Think of it like maintaining a relationship. Show your lawn some love, and pay attention to it regularly. It’ll look amazing.
If all this sounds overwhelming, that’s where we come in. At Lawn Sense, we’re basically lawn whisperers. Lawn Sense provides expert pre-emergent treatments designed for Dallas lawns. We know exactly how to kill crabgrass with pre-emergent herbicides, keeping it at bay. And what about leaving your yard looking stunning? Call us, and we’ll make sure your lawn is the talk of the neighborhood (for all the right reasons) because Lawn Sense means no-nonsense. Let’s do this!