Hey there, West Texas friends! If you’re tired of battling weeds every spring and summer, we’ve got your back. At Eternal Tree & Landscape, we know that timing is everything when it comes to pre-emergent herbicides. Knowing when to apply pre-emergent will help you nail the application window, saving yourself hours of pulling crabgrass, foxtail, and other unwelcome guests. Let’s break it down.
Timing Is Key: When to Apply
In West Texas, our climate dances between hot, dry summers and mild winters, which means weeds are always looking for a chance to crash your lawn party. The golden rule? Apply pre-emergent in early spring—ideally between late February and mid-March. This is when soil temperatures start warming up, but before weeds have a chance to sprout. Remember that this period is the ideal time when to apply your pre-emergent.
But wait—there’s a catch. If you miss the spring window, don’t panic! A second application in early fall (September) can tackle winter weeds like henbit or chickweed. Think of it as a one-two punch for year-round protection, ensuring the best results by knowing when you apply this treatment.
Soil Temperatures: The Secret Weapon
Weeds aren’t sneaky; they’re predictable. They germinate when soil temps hit 55–65°F for several days in a row. Grab a soil thermometer (yes, they exist!) and check temps at 4 inches deep in the morning. If you’re hitting that sweet spot, it’s go-time for your pre-emergent application, knowing this timing is ideal for when to apply the herbicide.
Pro tip: If you’re not into DIY soil testing, keep an eye on local mesquite trees. When they start budding, soil temps are usually right for pre-emergent application. Nature’s calendar, folks, it guides you on the ideal time to apply these treatments.
Liquid vs. Granular: What’s Best for Your Lawn?
Not all pre-emergents are created equal. Here’s the lowdown:
- Liquid Pre-Emergent
- Pros: Works fast, great for large areas, and easy to mix with water for even coverage.
- Cons: Requires a sprayer and some precision—don’t go spraying your flower beds!
- Our Pick: Prodiamine 65WDG (aka “Barricade”). It’s a long-lasting favorite for pros.
- Granular Pre-Emergent
- Pros: Super easy to spread with a broadcast spreader, perfect for DIYers.
- Cons: Needs watering in to activate, so keep that hose handy.
- Our Pick: Dimension. It’s versatile and even knocks out early sprouters.
Bonus option for organic fans: Corn Gluten Meal. It’s pet-friendly and doubles as a fertilizer, though it requires more frequent applications. Keep this in mind for when considering pre-emergent.
A Few Pro Tips
- Water it in: Whether you go liquid or granular, moisture is key to activating the herbicide.
- Don’t disturb the soil: Avoid raking or aerating after application—you’ll break the protective barrier.
- Layer up: Pair pre-emergent with a healthy lawn care routine (mowing, watering, fertilizing) for maximum weed defense.
Ready to Win the Weed War?
At Eternal Tree & Landscape, we’re all about giving your yard the TLC it deserves. If pre-emergent schedules feel overwhelming, just holler—our team can handle the timing, temps, and application so you can kick back and enjoy your weed-free oasis, ensuring you know when the pre-emergent should be applied.
Here’s to less weeding and more living! 🌵✨
Got questions? Drop us a line or call our office at 432-689-8186. We’re always here to help!
Growing Beauty, One Lawn at a Time.
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