Guide to Pre-Emergent for Warm Season or Cool Season Lawns

It can be easy not to think about it now, but you can’t fully enjoy spring and summer with a weed-filled lawn. Pre-emergent is one of the best ways to keep crabgrass, goosegrass, spurge, foxtail and more out of yours—but only if you know how and when to use it. Here’s our breakdown of lawn pre-emergent and how it can prepare your yard for successful transitions into spring and summer.

What is Pre-Emergent?

Also known as pre-emergent herbicides or weed controls, pre-emergent applications prevent new weed growth. Pre-emergents work by creating a barrier that stops weeds from rooting in the ground and germinating. They’re unlike post-emergent products, which try to control weeds that have already grown.

Whether a pre-emergent is weed-type specific (selective) or meant to control any new lawn growth (non-selective), they must be properly applied. Our weed control specialists can help create a plan to give your yard the most complete protection possible.

When to Apply Pre-Emergent for Warm Season Lawns Vs. Cool Season Lawns

For warm season lawns, apply pre-emergent in both the fall and late winter/early spring. For cool season lawns, apply pre-emergent only in the late winter/early spring. If a cool season lawn gets pre-emergent applications in the fall, they will target overseeding that’s been done, potentially killing the new grass seeds.

For fall and late winter/early spring applications, wait until soil temperatures reach 55°F. This generally aligns with consistent 55-60°F air temperatures in the fall and 65-70°F air temperatures in the late winter/early spring. You should also try to time pre-emergent applications to avoid any heavy rainfall, as this can lessen its effectiveness. With Barefoot Lawn Care, you can get the right cadence of control services, custom to the specific weeds your lawn can encounter.

How To Apply Pre-Emergents

You’ll first need to decide which pre-emergent will work best for your lawn. Your options include selective or non-selective versions that are either granular or liquid. After you’ve made your choice, you’ll need to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the right spreader type to cover each part of your lawn evenly. You want to ensure that each part of your lawn only gets the recommended amount of pre-emergent.

The much simpler, straightforward way to apply pre-emergent is by partnering with Barefoot Lawn Care. We can offer the peace of mind that your pre-emergent is the best one for the job and will be expertly applied.

Does Pre-Emergent Stop Grass From Growing?

If applied correctly, pre-emergent shouldn’t stop established grass from growing. In fact, pre-emergents work best when your lawn is in good health overall. Already established turfgrass is not the target of pre-emergents, and proper lawn maintenance—including fertilization and aeration—will also support your lawn in preventing weeds.

Treat Your Lawn Now to Avoid Spring & Summer Weeds!

Preventing weeds can make a huge difference in how much you’re able to enjoy your lawn. Barefoot Lawn Care can expertly inspect your yard to determine what lawn conditions may be encouraging weeds and what pre-emergent can best stop them. Get started with your free lawn analysis today.