How to keep weeds from germinating

How to keep weeds from growing in my lawn

When should I use a preemergent herbicide in the Southwest.

A pre-emergent will keep most weed seeds from germinating. In the Southwest this means applying this herbicide about mid February to mid March. You can also let your flowering plants and trees tell you when to apply pre-emergent. Start applying after forsythia shrubs and purple leaf plum trees begin to bloom.

Preemergent herbicides are chemicals that prevent the germinating of weeds from establishing in your lawn. These herbicides control annual grass weeds by engulfing the weed seeds with a layer of this herbicide thus inhibitng them from germinating. This product will usually come in granular form and should be used with a spreader. It is important that you read and follow instructions on how to apply the preemergent on your lawn.

It is best to reapply after heavy rains as this will weaken the preemergent herbicide.

Keep in mind that this herbicide will inhibit any type of grass seed from germinating. Here is what you need to do if you need to reseed with desirable grass seeds.

Rake the area thoroughly to help break the chemical in place. Apply some top soil or peat moss and rake in. Water thoroughly for about a week or so to help weaken the chemical.

Another easy way to keep crabgasses at bay is by maintaining a dense, and healthy lawn. This is done by the short canopy your lawn will develop. This canopy will shade undesirable grabgrass seeds thus keeping them from germinating. Thicker healthier lawns will usually choke out undesirable weeds.

Ideally once temperatures are above 50 degrees Fahrenheit during night time is when you should resume fertilizing your lawn.

Color your world Nurseries will always carry preemergent herbicides. Visit our gardening stores today.
Paul Guzman