About Weed Control

       There are many different categories of weeds. There are broadleaf weeds (also called dicots) and grassy weeds (monocots). There are annual weeds that live only one season or pesky perennials that show up in the same spot every year. A dandelion, for example, is a perennial broadleaf.

Different types of weeds require different chemicals. Typically, products treat either broadleaf or grassy weeds, not both.

        Moreover, there are two different strategies used by lawn care professionals to kill weeds: pre-emergence and post-emergence. As the names suggest, pre-emergence tackles young seedlings before they emerge on the surface and post-emergence kills existing weeds.

Weeds start to die within the first week of treatment, but it could take several weeks before all are dead. Keep in mind that it takes 24 hours for the chemicals to absorb, and any heavy rain, mowing or extremely hot weather during that period makes the treatment less effective. Also, keep in mind that some weeds are tougher to kill than others, and that no herbicide eliminates weeds forever. Regular treatments are the best defense.

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Weed Classification

Most well-known example: Crabgrass

Other examples: Lambsquarters, Mallow, Pigweed, Spurge

Life Cycle: 1 year - Germinate in spring. They flower, produce seed, then die in fall.

Pre-emergent timing: Early spring (late winter for Southern & Coastal U.S.)

 

Weed Classification: Winter Annuals

 

Most well-known example: Annual Bluegrass (Poa Annua)

Other examples: Shot weed, Chickweed, Mustards.

Life Cycle: 1 year - Germinate in fall. Flower and produce seed quickly, then die in spring.

Pre-emergent timing: Late summer/early fall (rule of thumb is by September 15th)