Texas Pre-Emergent Timing Guide: When and Why to Apply in Spring and Fall
A lush, green lawn is the pride of any Texas homeowner, but without proper care, it can quickly be overtaken by stubborn weeds. Perfectly timing your pre-emergent applications will allow you to enjoy a weed-free yard that turns heads. But if you miss the window, you may find yourself battling unwanted weed growth all season long. That’s why it’s important for homeowners to know the right timing for applying pre-emergents in spring and fall to keep lawns looking healthy. This guide is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of Texas lawn care, helping you learn when to apply pre-emergent herbicides to keep your yard vibrant and weed-free, no matter the season.
What Do Pre-Emergents Do and How Do They Work?
Unlike traditional weed killers, pre-emergents don’t kill the weeds that are already in your lawn. Instead, they prevent weed seeds from ever-growing. It works by creating a barrier in the soil, which stops the germination of annual weeds in their tracks.
Common Texas Weeds That Pre-Emergents Can Prevent
From broadleaf weeds to grassy weeds to sedges, Texas homeowners have their hands full when it comes to keeping a healthy lawn. Depending on your location throughout the Lone Star State, you can expect the following types of weeds throughout the year:
- Spring Weeds: Crabgrass, Goosegrass, Spurge, Dallisgrass, Dandelions
- Fall/Winter Weeds: Henbit, Chickweed, Poison Ivy, Annual Bluegrass (Poa annua)
When to Apply Pre-Emergents in Spring
Once the spring rolls around, warm-season grasses like Bermuda, Augustine, and Zoysia begin to come out of their dormant winter state. This is also the time that pesky weeds are the most opportunistic, and a spring application of pre-emergent herbicide can do wonders for your yard. It’s best to lay down your pre-emergents in the early spring, sometime around mid-February through March, before the soil warms above 55 degrees. If you miss that window, you’re not totally out of luck, but you’ll have less success with weed prevention overall. Using a proven pre-emergent like Prodiamine can be a game-changer in this crucial time of the year.
When to Apply Pre-Emergents in Fall
If you want to stay ahead of the winter weeds (yes, those exist), it’s recommended to apply pre-emergent sometime in early September. This can stop cool-season weeds like annual bluegrass, henbit, and chickweed before they have the opportunity to invade your lawn. When it comes to stopping weed sprouting, application timing is everything. Most lawn care professionals in Texas recommend getting your pre-emergent down before soil temperatures dip to 70 degrees or below consistently. If not, you’ll be tasked with a much tougher battle using post-emergent herbicide later on.
Quick Tips to Apply Pre-Emergents Effectively
To get the most out of your pre-emergent spring and fall applications, a few strategic tips can make all the difference. Here’s how to make sure your pre-emergent weed killers are as effective as possible:
- Choose pre-emergent products that align with the types of weeds you’re up against.
- Prepare your lawn by mowing and clearing away debris for better contact with the soil.
- Use the right tools to ensure full coverage, like a hose sprayer for liquid products or a broadcast spreader for granular products.
- Lightly water your lawn after applying your chosen herbicide to activate it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying pre-emergents might seem simple, but a few common missteps can really set you back. To help you steer clear of these issues and keep your Texas lawn looking its best, there are certain common mistakes you should avoid.
Late Application
Time stops for nothing, including your lawn. Applying too late will most likely result in rapid weed growth, leaving your pre-emergents less effective.
Skipping Watering
Pre-emergents need water to activate and work into the soil. Watering your lawn after any grass treatment is beneficial to make sure the product soaks into the lawn and gets to work quickly!
Improper Dosage
Applying too little can result in ineffective weed control, allowing weeds to sprout through and take hold of your lawn. On the other hand, using too much can stress your grass and potentially harm the environment. Make sure you always read the product label and follow the recommended application rates.
No Weed Control for Perennials
Pre-emergents won’t stop perennial weeds (weeds that live more than two years in the soil); they’re only meant for annuals. It’s important to work with a professional lawn care company to create a solid plan for managing these perennial weeds.
Not Considering the Weather
Be sure to check the weather forecasts before and after you apply pre-emergents. Heavy rains can wash away herbicides and leave your lawn vulnerable to pesky weeds.
When Pre-Emergents Won’t Work
When used correctly, these herbicides are incredibly effective. However, there are a few situations that can render them useless. Generally, pre-emergents will be much less useful under the following conditions:
- Weeds have already started sprouting on your lawn and summer is in full swing.
- Your lawn hasn’t been aerated regularly and the soil is compacted, which prevents the herbicide from working effectively.
How Aggieland Green Can Help
A beautiful lawn takes time, dedication, and a lot of knowledge – all things that the lawn care professionals at Aggieland Green proudly uphold. From properly timing pre-emergent application to seasonal fertilization and full-spectrum weed control, we offer year-round lawn care solutions for your yard. Whether you’re fighting a battle with weeds in the College Station or Houston areas, our team has what it takes to keep your lawn lush, green, and beautiful. Contact us today to get your free quote.