Weeds can be a nuisance for your lawn in Texas, especially during the winter season when it's dormant. Fortunately, pre-emergent weed control is an effective way to get ahead of these pesky plants before they have a chance to grow and cause problems. This type of treatment works by creating a barrier in the soil that prevents newly germinated weeds from growing through the surface. To maximize its effectiveness, you should apply this treatment twice in the fall—once in early fall (September or October) and again in late fall (November or December). By taking proactive measures against weeds now, you can ensure a healthier, more beautiful lawn come springtime.
What is pre-emergent weed control?
Pre-emergent weed control refers to a herbicide application designed to prevent new weed growth. Unlike post-emergents, which target existing weeds, pre-emergents work by forming a protective layer over the soil where weed seeds are present. When applied correctly, this barrier stops those seeds from sprouting and breaking through the ground.
This method targets specific stages of weed development, namely seedling emergence. It doesn't affect established weeds but rather focuses on preventing them from ever becoming visible aboveground. As such, timing plays a crucial role in ensuring maximum efficacy.
How does pre-emergent weed control work?
The secret behind pre-emergent weed control lies in how it interacts with developing weed seedlings. After being sprayed onto the soil, the active ingredients within the product create a thin film across the top few inches of dirt. Any weed seeds lying beneath this coating will struggle to push past it as they attempt to germinate.
Once exposed to light, water, and oxygen, most weed seeds begin their journey towards maturity. However, if they encounter the pre-emergent barrier along the way, they won't receive enough resources to continue growing. Instead, they remain trapped below the surface until eventually dying off due to lack of access to essential elements needed for survival.
When should you apply pre-emergent weed control to get ahead of winter weeds?
To achieve optimal results against winter weeds, applying pre-emergent weed control at just the right time is imperative. Ideally, you want to administer the treatment twice throughout the fall season. The first application should occur in early fall (September/October), while the second one should happen later in the same period (November/December).
Early-fall applications help establish the initial line of defense against incoming weed seeds. During this time, many species start producing seeds that will lie dormant over winter, waiting for favorable conditions to sprout once temperatures rise again. By targeting these seeds early on, you reduce the number of potential competitors your lawn faces come spring.
Latter-fall treatments serve as reinforcement for any remaining weed populations attempting to break through after the initial application has worn off. Applying another round ensures continued protection well into the following year, giving your grass ample opportunity to thrive without interference from unwanted invaders.
Call us today to schedule our weed control service!
If you want to keep your property free of nutrient-stealing weeds, you've come to the right place! At Sureguard Lawn & Pest, a reliable weed control service is offered that includes both pre- and post-emergent weed control treatments, administered throughout the year to ensure your lawn remains free of pesky weeds! What's more, this program also includes fertilization treatments to provide your turf with the nutrients that it needs to thrive. This service is offered to residential and commercial property owners, as well as HOAs, in Dallas, Fort Worth, Waco, Mabank, Cedar Creek, Frisco, Midlothian, Carrollton, TX, and throughout the surrounding areas. Don’t let weeds ruin the beauty of your lawn—give us a call today at (972) 406-8600 to schedule our top-notch weed control service!
