As a homeowner, you want to keep your lawn looking its best all year round. One of the biggest challenges you face is controlling all types of crabgrass, an invasive weed that can quickly overtake your lawn. Applying a pre-emergent crabgrass preventer is a vital step in controlling this pesky weed. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss when to apply crabgrass preventer, how to apply it, and what you can expect from this treatment.
Timing is crucial when it comes to applying a pre-emergent crabgrass preventer. This treatment should be applied before the crabgrass begins to germinate, which typically occurs when the soil temperature reaches around 55°F for several consecutive days.
The exact timing will depend on your location, as soil temperatures can vary significantly from region to region. As a general rule, you should aim to apply the crabgrass preventer in early spring, typically around mid-March to mid-April, depending on your location. If after this timing and you see Crabgrass growing, you’ll need to use a post-emergent product.
How To Apply Crabgrass Preventer
Applying a pre-emergent crabgrass preventer is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s what you need to do:
- Mow your lawn: Before applying the crabgrass preventer, mow your lawn to a height of around 2-3 inches. This will help the product reach the soil where it’s needed.
- Remove debris: Remove any debris, such as leaves or twigs, from your lawn before applying the crabgrass preventer.
- Apply the crabgrass preventer: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when applying the crabgrass preventer. You’ll typically need to use a spreader to ensure even coverage.
- Water your lawn: After applying the crabgrass preventer, water your lawn thoroughly to help activate the product.
What To Expect From Crabgrass Preventer
A pre-emergent crabgrass preventer won’t kill existing crabgrass. Instead, it works by creating a barrier that prevents the weed seeds from germinating. This means that you may still see a few patches of crabgrass in your lawn, but the number should be significantly reduced.
It’s essential to remember that a pre-emergent crabgrass preventer is only effective for a limited time. You’ll need to reapply the product each year to keep crabgrass at bay.
3 Popular Pre-Emergents For Homeowners
Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer
- Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer prevents the…
- Prevents the germination of crabgrass, foxtail, spurge, barnyardgrass,…
- Apply this pre-emergent weed killer in the early spring to a dry lawn…
- This lawn care product is for use on all grass types (with the…
- One 20.12 lb. bag of Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer…
This popular crabgrass preventer comes in both granular and liquid form. The mix ratio for the granular form is 2.87 lbs per 1,000 sq ft of lawn, while the mix ratio for the liquid form is 1.5 oz per 1,000 sq ft of lawn. To use the granular form, apply it using a spreader, making sure to apply it evenly over the entire lawn. Water your lawn after application to activate the product. For the liquid form, dilute the product with water according to the instructions on the label and apply it using a sprayer.
GreenView Fairway Formula Spring Fertilizer & Crabgrass Preventer
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This crabgrass preventer is a popular choice among homeowners. The mix ratio for this product is 16 lbs per 5,000 sq ft of lawn. Apply the product evenly over your lawn using a spreader, making sure to cover the entire area. Water your lawn after application to activate the product.
Preen Garden Weed Preventer
- Use anytime during the spring, summer, or fall in flower and…
- Prevents weeds and feeds plants in one easy step
- Balanced fertilizer promotes abundant blooms, increased yields, and…
- Safe for use around over 200 established flowers, vegetables, trees,…
- Can be used as a refill for flip-top applicator
This crabgrass preventer is popular among homeowners who have flower beds or vegetable gardens in addition to their lawn. The mix ratio for this product is 1.25 lbs per 100 sq ft of soil. Apply the product evenly over the soil in your flower beds or vegetable garden, being careful not to get the product on any desired plants. Water your garden after application to activate the product.
4 Popular Pre-Emergants that the Professionals Use – (and you can too)
| Product | Time to Apply | Mix Ratio | How to Apply | Weeds Controlled | Safe for Grass Types |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tenacity | Spring/Fall | 1 tsp/gal | Apply using a sprayer, avoid mowing for 1-2 days | Crabgrass, Dandelion, Clover, Nutsedge, Bentgrass | Bermuda, Kentucky Bluegrass, Centipede, Perennial Ryegrass, Fescue |
| Barricade | Spring | 1.5 oz/gal | Apply using a spreader, water immediately after application | Crabgrass, Foxtail, Goosegrass, Henbit, Spurge | Bermuda, Buffalo, Centipede, Perennial Ryegrass, Fescue |
| Prodiamine | Spring | 1 oz/gal | Apply using a sprayer or spreader, water immediately after application | Crabgrass, Goosegrass, Foxtail, Poa Annua | Kentucky Bluegrass, Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Zoysia |
| Dithiopyr | Spring | 1.4 oz/gal | Apply using a spreader, water immediately after application | Crabgrass, Foxtail, Goosegrass, Chickweed, Henbit | Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, Tall Fescue, Fine Fescue |
Tenacity
- BROAD-SPECTRUM WEED CONTROL: Tenacity herbicide is a liquid lawn weed…
- APPLICATIONS AT SEEDING: Unlike most herbicides, Tenacity can be…
- SELECTIVE PRE- AND POST-EMERGENT CONTROL: Based on a naturally…
- EASY TO MEASURE AND POUR: No more lost syringes. Simply squeeze the…
- TRUSTED ORIGINAL: Tenacity is the original leading herbicide brand…
Tenacity is a pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicide that can be used for crabgrass prevention and control. Here’s some information on how to mix and apply Tenacity so that homeowners can use it easily:
Mix Ratio: Tenacity is a concentrated herbicide, so it’s important to mix it with water according to the recommended rate. The mix ratio for Tenacity is typically 0.5 to 0.75 ounces of product per gallon of water. It’s important to measure the product carefully to ensure that the correct amount is used.
Application: To apply Tenacity, homeowners can use a handheld or backpack sprayer. It’s important to wear gloves and protective clothing, as well as follow all safety precautions listed on the product label.
Here are the steps for applying Tenacity:
- Fill the sprayer with water.
- Measure out the recommended amount of Tenacity and add it to the sprayer.
- Agitate the sprayer to ensure that the product is mixed evenly with the water.
- Spray the Tenacity solution evenly over the entire lawn, focusing on areas where crabgrass is most likely to grow.
- Allow the solution to dry completely before watering or mowing the lawn.
Timing: Tenacity is effective as both a pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicide, so it can be used to prevent and control crabgrass at different stages of growth.
For pre-emergent control, it’s important to apply Tenacity before crabgrass seeds germinate, which is typically around late winter or early spring.
For post-emergent control, it’s important to apply Tenacity when the crabgrass is in its early stages of growth.
It’s important to note that Tenacity can also be used to control other types of weeds, in addition to crabgrass.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Effective as both a pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicide for crabgrass control | Can be more expensive than other herbicides |
| Can be used to control other types of weeds in addition to crabgrass | May require multiple applications for best results |
| Can be applied as a standalone product or in combination with other herbicides for maximum effectiveness | Requires careful mixing and application to ensure proper coverage |
| Has a low risk of harming desirable turfgrass when used as directed | May take longer to see results than other herbicides |
| Provides long-lasting control with residual activity for up to several weeks after application | May not be as effective on mature, established crabgrass |
Overall, Tenacity can be a highly effective tool for homeowners looking to prevent and control crabgrass in their lawns. However, it’s important to use the product as directed and to take into consideration the potential drawbacks, such as the need for careful mixing and application and the possibility of multiple applications being required for best results. Additionally, homeowners should be aware of the cost of the product and consider whether it is the best option for their specific needs and budget.
Prodiamine
Prodiamine is a pre-emergent herbicide that is commonly used by lawn care professionals to prevent crabgrass growth. The mix ratio for prodiamine is typically 1.5 to 2 pounds of product per acre of lawn, although this may vary depending on the brand and concentration of the product.
To apply, lawn care professionals typically use a professional-grade spreader or sprayer to ensure even coverage over the entire lawn. It’s important to apply prodiamine before crabgrass seeds begin to germinate, which is typically around late winter or early spring.
- Determine the appropriate amount of Prodiamine to use based on the size of your lawn. The recommended application rate is typically around 1.0-1.5 lbs. of active ingredient per acre. Check the product label for specific instructions based on the size of your lawn.
- Measure out the correct amount of Prodiamine based on your lawn size and mix it with water in a pump sprayer. The specific mixing ratio will depend on the concentration of the product you are using. Follow the label instructions carefully to ensure proper mixing.
- Apply the solution evenly over your lawn using a pump sprayer. Make sure to cover the entire area, focusing on high-risk areas where crabgrass is more likely to grow, such as along the edges of driveways and sidewalks.
- Water your lawn thoroughly after application to help activate the herbicide and ensure it penetrates the soil. This will help to ensure that the herbicide reaches the area where crabgrass seeds are likely to germinate.
- Repeat the application as necessary to provide long-lasting protection against crabgrass and other annual weeds. Prodiamine typically provides up to 6 months of protection, but additional applications may be necessary for optimal control.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Effective pre-emergent control of crabgrass and other annual weeds | Limited control of existing weeds |
| Long-lasting up to 6 months of protection against crabgrass | Slow-acting and can take several weeks to take effect |
| Easy to apply with a pump sprayer | Can be harmful to some plants if oversprayed or used in the wrong areas |
| Generally safe for humans and pets when used properly | Limited control of other weed types |
Dithiopyr
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Dithiopyr is another popular pre-emergent herbicide that is commonly used by lawn care professionals to prevent crabgrass growth. The mix ratio for dithiopyr is typically 0.5 to 1 pound of product per acre of lawn, although this may vary depending on the brand and concentration of the product.
- Choose the right time to apply: Dithiopyr should be applied before the crabgrass seeds start to germinate in the spring. Typically, this is when the soil temperature reaches around 55-60 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Determine the right amount of product: The amount of Dithiopyr you need will depend on the size of your lawn. Follow the instructions on the product label to determine the correct amount of product to use.
- Mix the product with water: Dithiopyr is usually sold as a granular or liquid concentrate. If you’re using a granular product, you’ll need to spread it evenly over your lawn using a spreader. If you’re using a liquid concentrate, you’ll need to mix it with water before applying it to your lawn.
- Apply the product: Apply Dithiopyr evenly over your lawn using a sprayer or spreader. Make sure to cover the entire area that you want to protect from crabgrass. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label to ensure that you apply the correct amount.
- Water the lawn: After applying Dithiopyr, you’ll need to water your lawn to activate the product. Watering will help to distribute the herbicide throughout the soil and create a barrier that will prevent crabgrass from germinating.
It’s important to note that Dithiopyr should be applied before the crabgrass seeds start to germinate in the spring, and it may be less effective in areas with heavy rainfall or frequent watering.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Effective pre-emergent control of crabgrass and other annual weeds | Limited control of existing weeds |
| Long-lasting up to 4 months of protection against crabgrass | May be less effective in areas with heavy rainfall or frequent watering |
| Easy to apply with a pump sprayer | Can be harmful to some plants if oversprayed or used in the wrong areas |
| Can be applied in the fall or spring for season-long protection | May need to be combined with other products for effective control of certain weed types |
| Generally safe for humans and pets when used properly | Can be expensive compared to other options |
Barricade
- PREVENT WEED DEVELOPMENT: Barricade 4FL controls the growth and…
- LONG-LASTING PREEMERGENCE WEED PREVENTION: Take action before…
- ULTRA EFFECTIVE: You can use more Barricade for season-long targeted…
- BROAD-SPECTRUM HERBICIDE: The weed grass killer is super effective on…
- INHIBITS GROWTH: Our herbicide for lawns prevents weed growth and…
Barricade is a pre-emergent herbicide that is known for its long-lasting effectiveness in preventing crabgrass growth. The mix ratio for Barricade is typically 1 to 1.5 pounds of product per acre of lawn, although this may vary depending on the brand and concentration of the product.
To apply, lawn care professionals typically use a professional-grade spreader or sprayer to ensure even coverage over the entire lawn. It’s important to apply Barricade before crabgrass seeds begin to germinate, which is typically around late winter or early spring.
- Determine the appropriate application rate: The amount of Barricade that you need to apply will depend on the size of your lawn, the type of grass you have, and the severity of your weed problem. Refer to the product label to determine the appropriate application rate for your situation.
- Measure out the product: Use a measuring cup or a scale to measure out the appropriate amount of Barricade for your lawn.
- Mix the product with water: Fill a sprayer with the appropriate amount of water, then add the measured amount of Barricade to the sprayer. Agitate the sprayer to mix the product and water thoroughly.
- Apply the product to your lawn: Use a sprayer to apply the Barricade mixture evenly to your lawn. Be sure to follow the recommended spray pattern and direction on the product label to ensure even coverage.
- Water your lawn: After applying Barricade, it’s important to water your lawn thoroughly to help activate the product and ensure that it gets into the soil where it can do its job. Follow the watering instructions on the product label carefully.
It’s important to note that Barricade is only effective as a pre-emergent herbicide, meaning that it needs to be applied before crabgrass and other annual weeds start to germinate. For best results, apply Barricade in the early spring before soil temperatures reach 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
As with any herbicide, it’s important to use Barricade safely and responsibly. Be sure to wear protective clothing and equipment when handling the product, and keep pets and children away from treated areas until the product has had a chance to dry completely.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Provides long-lasting protection against crabgrass and other grassy weeds | Requires proper timing of application to be effective |
| Prevents weeds from germinating, rather than killing existing weeds | Can take up to several weeks to fully take effect |
| Has a low application rate, which makes it cost-effective | Can be affected by weather conditions, such as heavy rain, that can wash it away |
| Can be used on both warm-season and cool-season grasses | Can only be used on established lawns, not newly seeded areas |
| Can be used as part of an integrated pest management (IPM) program for weed control | Can cause damage to desirable plants if applied incorrectly or at the wrong time |
When used properly, Barricade can be an effective tool for preventing crabgrass and other grassy weeds from taking over your lawn. However, like any pre-emergent herbicide, it requires proper timing and application to be effective. Additionally, it may take a few weeks to fully take effect, and can be affected by weather conditions such as heavy rain.
One of the advantages of Barricade is that it has a low application rate, which makes it cost-effective for homeowners. It can also be used on both warm-season and cool-season grasses, and can be integrated into an IPM program for weed control.
However, it is important to note that Barricade can only be used on established lawns, and not on newly seeded areas. If applied incorrectly or at the wrong time, it can also cause damage to desirable plants.
Overall, Barricade can be a useful tool for homeowners looking to prevent crabgrass and other grassy weeds from taking over their lawns. Just be sure to use it correctly and at the appropriate time to ensure the best results.
What Is Crabgrass?
Crabgrass is a type of annual grass that is notorious for spreading quickly and choking out desirable lawn grasses. It germinates in the spring and continues to grow throughout the summer. By the fall, it produces thousands of seeds that can remain dormant in the soil for up to three years, ready to germinate at the first opportunity.
Crabgrass is difficult to control once it has taken hold in your lawn, which is why it’s essential to take preventive measures to keep it at bay. The best way to do this is by using a pre-emergent crabgrass preventer as I discussed above.
Final Thoughts
Controlling crabgrass is a vital part of maintaining a healthy and beautiful lawn. Applying a pre-emergent crabgrass preventer at the right time is a crucial step in this process. By following the guidelines in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to keep crabgrass under control and enjoy a lush, green lawn all year round.
