Lawn care can feel like a full-time job. Just when the grass starts looking green, weeds take over. In North Texas, the fight against weeds is a year-round task. Heat, drought, and fast-growing weeds don’t leave much room for error.
One solution is to stop weeds before they start. That’s the goal of pre emergent herbicides.
These products don’t kill visible weeds. They stop weed seeds from growing into a problem. But they only work if applied at the right time.
In North Texas, timing means everything. Apply pre emergent herbicide in early spring (around mid-March) and again in late fall (October or November). These are the key moments to block the seasonal weeds before they sprout.
This article explains how pre-emergents work, when to apply them, and how to avoid common mistakes.
Key Takeaways
- Apply in mid-March for summer weeds, October/November for winter weeds
- Soil temperature is more important than air temperature
- Pre emergents form a barrier to block weed seeds from sprouting
- They don’t kill existing weeds or roots
- Granular and liquid options exist—use what fits your lawn
- Water after applying to activate the product
Understanding Pre-Emergents
Pre emergent herbicides stop weeds before they grow. They work by forming a chemical barrier in the soil. This barrier blocks cell division in sprouting seeds, which keeps annual weeds like crabgrass and bluegrass from emerging.
Popular ingredients include:
These don’t kill existing weeds or roots. They only affect seeds in the early sprouting stage. Also, don’t apply them to newly seeded or sodded lawns, they’ll stop your grass from growing too.
When to Use Pre-Emergent in North Texas
The key is soil temperature. Weed seeds begin to grow when soil reaches the right range:
- Spring: Apply when soil is 55°F (usually mid-February to mid-March)
- Fall: Apply at 70°F (typically late August to early November)
Too early? The product breaks down before it’s needed. Too late? The weeds start growing.
Use a soil thermometer or local extension service updates to track temperatures.
Key Factors Influencing Application Timing
North Texas has sharp seasonal swings. Spring rains and summer heat create short windows for effective treatment. Clay soils absorb herbicide differently than sandy ones. Clay holds moisture longer, which activates herbicides slower.
Watch the weather. Wind and rain right after application can ruin the barrier. Plan around clear, calm days.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply Pre-Emergent Herbicides
Pre-Application Prep
- Test soil pH (target: 6.0–7.0)
- Mow and clear debris
- Wear gloves and eye protection
Choosing the Right Form
Granular: Easy for large areas, less precise
Liquid: Precise, better for spot coverage
Granular Application:
- Use a spreader
- Calibrate for even coverage
- Water afterward
Liquid Application:
- Mix according to label
- Use sprayer with steady pace
- Avoid overlap
- Allow time to dry before watering
Recommended Pre-Emergent Herbicides
- Prodiamine: Long-lasting, good for broadleaf weeds, weak on thistle
- Dithiopyr: Controls many grassy weeds, not great on crabgrass
- Benefin: Effective on bluegrass, sandbur
- Oxadiazon: Good choice for burweed, clover, and knotweed
Important Pre-Application Considerations
Apply when:
- No rain or wind is forecast for 24–48 hours
- Lawn is healthy and recently mowed
- Children and pets are indoors
Do not:
- Fertilize or aerate on the same day
- Apply to stressed or dry lawns
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying too early or too late
- Skipping watering after application
- Using the wrong product for your weeds
- Uneven spreading
- Ignoring soil temperature
Benefits of Using Pre-Emergent
- Prevents competition with grass for water and nutrients
- Supports a denser, more even lawn
- Reduces post-emergent herbicide use
- Saves money in long-term weed control
Expert Tips & Best Practices
- Match product to your grass and weed types
- Wait at least 60 days after seeding or sodding
- Apply only when lawn is healthy and hydrated
- Avoid sprinkler systems during application
- Never fertilize and apply pre emergent on the same day
When to Call the Pros
If you’re unsure, contact a professional. Lawn Sense provides pre emergent treatments in Dallas, TX and nearby areas. You’ll get targeted application and expert timing.
Lawn Sense means no nonsense.
FAQs
Homeowners across North Texas ask the same questions about weed prevention. Here are clear answers to the most common ones:
Will pre emergent herbicide kill visible weeds?
No. It only stops new seeds from sprouting. Use a post-emergent for visible weeds.
Can I apply pre emergent after rain?
Yes, but make sure the soil isn’t soaked. It needs to dry slightly before spreading product.
Is one application enough?
Usually no. Use in both spring and fall for full coverage.
Can I mow after applying pre emergent?
Wait at least 48 hours, especially if you’ve used a liquid herbicide.
Will it hurt my grass?
Not if applied correctly and your lawn is healthy.
Final Thoughts
Pre emergents are a smart, cost-saving way to keep weeds from invading your lawn. For homeowners in North Texas, application timing is critical. Use this guide to get ahead of the weeds and if needed, let Lawn Sense handle the rest.