What is a pre-emergent?
A pre-emergent herbicide is a specific type of pesticide designed to prevent the emergence of weeds in your lawn. It is important to recognize that weed seeds are naturally introduced into your lawn on a daily basis, whether through bird droppings, wind, or lawn mowers dispersing seeds.
Instead of allowing weeds to become a nuisance, a pre-emergent acts at the seed germination phase to halt their growth.
When does pre-emergent begin to take effect?
Pre-emergents start to work as soon as a seed begins to germinate. Weeds, like all plants, originate from seeds. Therefore, understanding the germination process is crucial. When a seed encounters optimal temperature and moisture conditions, it splits open, producing its first root (radicle) and leaf (cotyledon). The seed contains just enough nutrients to support the initial growth of these structures. After this stage, the plant—whether it is grass or a weed—relies on developing robust roots to absorb nutrients and moisture from the soil. This phase, where the seed has germinated but remains vulnerable, is when a pre-emergent herbicide is most effective.
How does a pre-emergent herbicide function?
A pre-emergent herbicide can be applied to your lawn in either liquid or granular form. Once the lawn is adequately watered, the pre-emergent binds chemically to the upper layer of soil. As a weed seed begins to germinate and sends down its initial root, that root comes into contact with the treated soil. This interaction disrupts the biological processes within the seed, preventing further growth.
Things to consider before purchasing
There is a wide variety of pre-emergent herbicides available in the market, each designed to target specific types of weeds while potentially overlooking others. Some formulations are tailored for use in flowerbeds, while others are intended for turf applications. The price range varies significantly, with options available for both premium and budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, the duration of effectiveness can differ, with some products providing longer-lasting results than others.
At Woerner Turf, our experienced team can help guide you in the right direction for choosing a pre-emergent for your specific needs. Stop by a landscape supply location for more information.
