It’s time for spring pre-emergents! Achieving a weed-free lawn and garden starts long before you see the first dandelion. Pre-emergent herbicides act as a barrier, stopping weed seeds from germinating in the first place. For Georgia homeowners, timing your application correctly makes all the difference between a lush lawn and a weed-filled battleground.
When to Apply
In Georgia, you must apply spring pre-emergents before the soil temperature consistently reaches 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This typically happens in late February or early March, just as the forsythia bushes begin to bloom. If you wait until you see weeds growing, you have waited too long. Pre-emergents prevent growth; they do not kill existing plants.
How to Apply
You can choose between granular or liquid forms. Granular options are popular because they are easy to spread with a standard fertilizer spreader. Ensure you water your lawn immediately after application. Water activates the herbicide, creating that essential chemical barrier in the soil.
The Benefits
Using pre-emergents saves you significant time and money later in the season. By stopping crabgrass and other stubborn weeds before they start, you avoid the need for expensive post-emergent treatments and hours of hand-pulling.
