Healthy, weed-free lawns require more than just fertilizer. Proper watering, mowing, aeration, and overseeding are all important steps in maintaining a healthy, weed-free lawn. Additionally, using the right kind of fertilizer for your lawn and applying it in the correct amounts and at the right time is essential. Fertilizer timing is crucial in the spring to ensure pre-emergent fertilizers have maximum effectiveness. Preemergent fertilizers should be applied before the soil temperature reaches a certain level and weeds start to sprout. Timing is also important to ensure the fertilizer is applied evenly and at the right rate. If it is applied too early, it may leach out of the soil before the plants can absorb it, and if it is applied too late, it may not have the desired effect.
What is Pre-Emergent?
Pre-emergent herbicides work by creating a protective barrier in the soil that prevents weed seeds from germinating. The active ingredients in pre-emergent herbicides bond to soil particles and form a thin layer on the soil surface. Weeds are prevented from emerging since they can't absorb the active ingredients and grow. Pre-emergent herbicides are most effective when applied before weed seeds have germinated, which is why they are often used in the spring before weeds have had a chance to sprout.
What is the difference between Pre-Emergent and Post-Emergent?
Preemergent herbicides are used to prevent weed seeds from germinating, while post emergent herbicides are used to control weeds that have already emerged. Preemergent herbicides are typically applied to soil before planting, while post emergent herbicides are generally used after weeds have emerged from the soil. Preemergent herbicides are generally more effective than post emergent herbicides because they can prevent weeds from ever emerging.
Can fertilizer with Pre-Emergent herbicides prevent dandelions from overtaking my yard?
Absolutely! Pre-emergent herbicides are the best way to control dandelions before they can spread and take over your lawn. It's an easy and cost-effective way to keep dandelions at bay and definitely worth the effort to keep your lawn healthy and weed-free!
When should I apply fertilizer with Pre-Emergent?
Temperatures determine when we will apply your spring fertilizer and pre-emergent. A pre-emergent will not be effective at colder temperatures because it may break down without penetrating the soil before it has a chance to activate during the germination process. For best results, apply when soil temperatures are at least 50 degrees. Spring moisture helps to activate the pre-emergent herbicides in the fertilizer. At One Call Property Solutions, LLC we apply a slow release poly coated granular fertilizer to protect your turf from weed infestations for longer.
IMPORTANT One final note: if you are seeding in the spring, you cannot apply pre-emergent because it will prevent the seeds from germinating that have or will be put down; pre-emergent must be given at least eight weeks to penetrate the soil after application before seeding. If you plan on doing spring seeding, wait until the fall or the next spring to put down pre-emergent (or, better yet, consider seeding in the fall). As you can see, a lot of timing is involved when getting the most out of weed control, which can seem overwhelming without experience and the free time to take care of it. If you are feeling overwhelmed or just want more free time, call One Call Property Solutions, LLC today at (208)490-6713 or schedule your free estimate online and let us take away the worry.