Don’t Let it Get Too Late to Treat
When it comes to weeds that are hated in the landscape, crabgrass is often at the top of most peoples’ list. This unsightly weed can spread rapidly once it emerged—and at that point can be difficult to get rid of. Nobody likes seeing the clumping bunches of this grassy weed popping up throughout the lawn.
That’s what makes crabgrass pre-emergent controls so imperative. When it comes to dealing with this pesky weed, a proactive approach that stops crabgrass in its tracks is the answer.
The Timeline for Crabgrass Pre-Emergent
While we find that most people understand the value of crabgrass pre-emergent products (sometimes commonly called “crabgrass preventers”), we’ve also seen the application window sneak up on folks.
Pre-emergent products work by producing a protective barrier that does not allow the crabgrass seeds to germinate. That’s important because a single crabgrass plant can produce up to 75,000 seeds! These lay dormant in the soil until the ideal germination conditions are present—and then it goes crazy, essentially spreading like wildfire.
Because this product must be applied prior to crabgrass germination, that window of time is absolutely crucial.
A general rule of thumb that we tell our clients is that crabgrass pre-emergent controls must be put down by April 15th.
Soil Temperatures Dictate Application
However, the April 15th date is truly just a rule of thumb based on historical weather data. But as you know, the weather can change from year to year. It’s actually the soil conditions that dictate when the product must be applied.
It is essential that you apply pre-emergent weed controls before soil temperatures reach 55 degrees as this is when crabgrass will start germinating.
The idea is to prevent as much of that germination as you can, so it behooves you to stay on top of soil temperatures—testing regularly. We find that most people in the region are applying products anywhere from the end of February through early to mid-April. As we mentioned, it can differ from season to season, so the key is to stay on top of the temperature.
Of course, even with a proactive approach and the optimal timing, you may still see some breakthroughs. The highly aggressive nature of this weed combined with the sheer number of seeds it produces makes it a formidable adversary. But if you stay on top of a breakthrough as it occurs, you can keep this pesky weed at bay!
Choosing Nature’s Mulch for High-Quality Pre-Emergent Products
It’s worth mentioning the quality of the products that you choose is also going to play a role in your success in preventing crabgrass. Certain products are going to be more effective than others. So, how can you choose the products that work best?
At Nature’s Mulch, we’ve removed the guesswork from your end by performing the research and only carrying the tried-and-true products that get the results you’re looking for. We carry Anderson’s professional-grade pre-emergent products which are “made by professionals for professionals.”
When it comes to a weed as aggressive as crabgrass, there is no room for error. Missing the application window or utilizing a subpar product could mean that you are plagued with tough-to-get-rid-of crabgrass. That’s why we’re here to offer the best products combined with our guidance and support. Together, we can win the battle against crabgrass!