When Should You Apply Weed Control
Timing is everything for keeping weeds at bay. Applying herbicides at just the right moment doesn’t just save you time and money; it can make a huge difference in the overall health of your lawn. Things like the weather, where weeds are in their growth cycle, and the moisture level of your soil all play a big role in determining the best times to tackle those pesky plants.
Let’s take a close look at how each season affects weed control methods and outcomes and how to properly apply weed control for each. And if you’re in the Dallas area and want professional-grade results, Lawn Sense is your partner. We help you make sense of your lawn with top-tier weed control services.
The Importance of Timing in Weed Control
The timing of your herbicide applications can make or break your weed control efforts. Different products work best under very specific conditions. Apply them too early or too late, and you might not see the results you’re hoping for. For example, early applications may not penetrate the soil well. In contrast, late applications may fail to reach weeds during their vulnerable growth stages.
There are three main factors to keep in mind: temperature, soil moisture, and the growth stages of the weeds themselves. Warm soil helps herbicides absorb better, but extreme heat can make them evaporate too quickly. Adequate soil moisture allows the products to reach down to the roots. And knowing the most vulnerable points in a weed’s lifecycle helps you target them when they’re at their weakest.
When you hit that sweet spot with herbicide applications, you make your weed control efforts powerful and keep your lawn looking its best.
The Best Seasons to Apply Weed Control
Each season has its pros and cons when applying weed control treatments. Let’s break it down season by season:
Spring
Spring is one of the prime seasons for pre-emergent herbicides. As the soil starts warming up, that’s when a lot of weeds begin sprouting. Putting down pre-emergents during this period creates a barrier that stops them from getting established in the first place.
The milder temperatures and spring rains also help the herbicides absorb really well.
Fall
Fall is another prime time, especially for post-emergent treatments. In early fall, weeds start preparing for winter dormancy, making them more responsive to herbicides. The cooler weather and increased soil moisture also support better absorption, so your post-emergent applications pack more of a punch.
Using post-emergents in the fall tackles any stubborn weeds that survived spring applications. By treating these weeds before dormancy, they’re less likely to rebound strongly in the spring, giving your lawn a healthier start to the growing season.
Summer
The hot temperatures of summer pose some challenges. Herbicides can evaporate too quickly above 85°F, and drought conditions make it harder for them to get absorbed into the soil. Broad applications don’t tend to work as well.
During the summer, your best bet is to spot-treat visible weeds with non-selective products or just pull them by hand. This approach limits stress on the lawn while tackling weeds without harming surrounding plants.
Winter
In colder regions, weeds pretty much shut down in winter. But in warmer southern areas, like Dallas, many grasses go dormant rather than entirely shutting down, making some weed control options possible.
If temps stay above 60°F, you can still get good results from late fall pre-emergent applications to prevent early spring weed issues. This sets up your lawns for a smoother transition as temperatures warm.
Choosing the Right Herbicides for the Job
Picking the right type of herbicide for the season’s conditions makes a big difference in how effective your weed control efforts will be. Here’s a closer look at when and how to apply each type.
Pre-Emergent Herbicides
Pre-emergent herbicides produce a barrier in the soil that stops weed seeds from sprouting. They work best in early spring and fall when they can get set up before weeds start growing.
Commonly used for broadleaf and grassy weeds, pre-emergents prevent weeds from taking root. When you apply them at the right times, they effectively stop weed growth before it starts, keeping lawns cleaner and healthier through the growing season.
Post-Emergent Herbicides
Post-emergent herbicides target weeds that have already come up. You’ll typically use them in summer and early fall.
Post-emergents fall into two categories: selective and non-selective. Selective options only hit certain weeds, and non-selective ones kill anything they touch.
You must be careful with post-emergent applications, especially in summer when the heat is intense. Spot-treating visible weeds is often safer than doing a whole-lawn treatment.
Tailoring Weed Control to Your Grass Type
Different grass varieties have their own unique characteristics that influence how you should apply weed control. Here are some considerations to help you apply herbicides safely:
Warm-Season Grasses (like Bermuda, Zoysia, St. Augustine)
Warm-season grasses thrive in the summer heat. For these, pre-emergents in early spring and fall work best to stop weeds before they get started. Post-emergents are most effective when temps are milder, so you can target weeds without stressing out the grass.
Also, avoid applying herbicides during dormancy or transitions between growth phases to prevent unnecessary stress on the grass.
Cool-Season Grasses (like Fescue and Bluegrass)
Cool-season grasses develop best in spring and fall, going dormant in the summer. Early spring pre-emergents can cut down weed issues before the summer dormancy kicks in. At the same time, fall post-emergents take care of late-season weeds.
Monitoring soil temps helps you time applications just right applications to balance proper weed control with grass health.
A Few More Tips for Herbicide Application Success
Proper weed control is about more than just choosing the right products.
Here are some additional best practices:
- Wait After Planting New Grass: Wait at least a few weeks after planting new grass before applying any herbicides. The grass needs time to get established first.
- Read and Follow Label Instructions: Always follow the instructions on the herbicide label. That info is super important to help you use the right amounts and conditions.
- Practice Safe Application Methods: Use protective gear like gloves and masks when applying, and do it on calm days to prevent drift that could harm nearby plants.
How to Apply Weed Control with Lawn Sense
Choosing the right time to control weeds throughout the year can significantly improve lawn health and appearance. With a bit of seasonal know-how and attention to detail, you can keep your lawn looking its absolute best all year round.
And if you’re in the Dallas area looking for professional weed management, our team at Lawn Sense is here to provide reliable, hassle-free weed control services. Our knowledgeable team applies advanced techniques and quality products, helping you achieve a beautiful, healthy lawn without the hassle. With Lawn Sense, we are no-nonsense and ready to apply weed control every season.