“Pre-emergent” refers to a type of weed control product that kills weeds before they emerge (i.e., before we can see them above ground). It’s a great strategy for year-round weed control, and can be used against Arizona winter weeds. Here’s how to get the best results from your pre-emergent application.
Two Words: Timing and Temperature
For best results, pay attention to timing and temperature (of the soil) when treating your lawn with pre-emergent. For example:
- Applying in Fall? Fall pre-emergent should be applied in early fall (between September and October) before temperatures drop to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Applying in Winter? Treat your yard in late winter (before soil temperatures reach 55 degrees Fahrenheit) for three to five consecutive days.
- Applying in Spring? Aim for early spring, when soil temperature in Arizona is most likely to hover around 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Each of these seasonal applications is meant to kill and control weeds that are most common in the following season. Spring application controls summer weeds; fall application controls winter weeds; winter application controls spring weeds.
No Matter When, Water It In
Whenever applying pre-emergent weed killer, water it into your lawn right away to activate the product and allow it to penetrate deep enough to work effectively. It’s always a good idea to double-check the product instructions: not every weed control product is ideal for your needs. Make sure it works best against the type of weeds you’re looking to target.
How Pre-Emergents Work
Contrary to popular wording, pre-emergents don’t prevent seeds from germinating. In fact, seeds have to germinate for these products to work. So how do they work? Here’s a good explanation from Control Solutions:
“Once a seed germinates, the initial or primary root emerges from the seed. At this point, if a pre-emergent has been applied, when the young root absorbs moisture from the soil, the pre-emergent does its job. Depending on the specific active [ingredient in the pre-emergent, either the root or initial leaf is prevented from developing, and that plant dies. All of this [happens] below the turf canopy and is never seen” above the surface of the grass. When it works, weeds don’t emerge.
We Can Get the Timing Right
One of the biggest headaches for DIY pre-emergent application is the timely application of multiple treatments per year. You probably don’t want to juggle all those to-dos. Luckily, you don’t have to. Contact Zebrascapes for expert pre-emergent selection and application that your yard needs to stay healthy, green, and beautiful. Enjoy your yard, and leave the work to us.