Ask the Experts

Fall Pre-Emergent: The Key to a Weed-Free Spring

As fall rolls in, it’s the perfect time to start preparing your landscape for springtime. One of the best ways to get a head start on a weed-free landscape is with a fall pre-emergent application. Tyler Breed, an agronomist at Southern Botanical, shares his insights on why fall is ideal for pre-emergent herbicide treatments. He discusses how they work and how to incorporate them into your fall lawn care routine to keep pesky weeds at bay.

What Is a Fall Pre-Emergent, and How Does It Prevent Springtime Weeds?

Fall pre-emergents are herbicides applied to the soil in autumn to prevent weed seeds from germinating in the spring. “A fall pre-emergent creates a barrier in the soil that stops weed seeds from taking root, essentially blocking them before they have a chance to grow,” explains Breed. These herbicides work by inhibiting root growth, effectively preventing the lawn weeds from sprouting and spreading.

When applied correctly, pre-emergents can significantly reduce the number of weeds that emerge in the spring, making them an essential step in seasonal lawn care.

Why Is Fall the Best Time for Pre-Emergent Weed Control?

In North Texas and similar regions, fall is the ideal time for pre-emergent applications. “While a spring pre-emergent is also valuable, fall is the most critical time to apply,” Breed notes. Here are a couple of reasons why:

  • Dormant Grass Susceptibility: As temperatures drop, warm-season grasses go dormant. Breed explains that “dormant grasses are more susceptible to weed pressure because they are not actively growing.”
  • Reduced Competition: Dormant grasses offer little resistance to weeds, which thrive in the absence of active growth. By applying pre-emergents in fall, you’re cutting off the opportunity for weeds to establish during this vulnerable period.

This approach gives lawns a head start, allowing the turf to come back stronger in the spring without competing with established weeds.

Common Lawn Weeds Controlled by Fall Pre-Emergents

Different pre-emergent products target various types of weeds, each with specific application rates outlined on the label. However, some common weeds that fall pre-emergents typically help control include:

  • Crabgrass
  • Goosegrass
  • Annual Bluegrass
  • Spurge
  • Chickweed
  • Broadleaf Weeds (a variety of types)

These weeds, if left unchecked, can spread rapidly, choking out desirable grasses and making lawns look patchy. A fall pre-emergent application helps to tackle these nuisance plants before they even get a chance to sprout.

Southern Botanical’s Fall Pre-Emergent Application Process

Southern Botanical’s team follows a comprehensive process to ensure that pre-emergents are applied effectively and safely. “Our process starts well before the application itself,” says Breed. Here’s how it works:

  1. Identify Exempt Properties: Southern Botanical first identifies any properties that will receive overseeding, as pre-emergents should not be applied in these areas.
  2. Prepare Equipment: Our technicians ensure that tanks are cleaned and filled with the selected pre-emergent herbicide.
  3. Ensure Accurate Application: Application rates, mix rates, and methods are double-checked to ensure correct coverage and effectiveness.
  4. Communicate with Account Managers: Account managers are informed about all treated properties to facilitate proper watering and other aftercare needs.

Benefits of Fall Pre-Emergents for Long-Term Lawn Health

Applying fall pre-emergents not only stops weeds from emerging but also supports the long-term health of your lawn. “By reducing weed competition, you give your turf a better chance to establish strong roots and full coverage,” Breed explains. When your lawn has full turf coverage, it’s more resistant to weed pressure and other threats, creating a healthier landscape overall.

“Highly maintained landscapes benefit significantly from fall pre-emergent applications,” Breed adds. With fewer weeds to worry about, property owners can focus on other aspects of landscaping and turf health, making their outdoor spaces more vibrant and resilient.

Avoid These Common Mistakes When Applying Fall Pre-Emergents

Even with the best products, mistakes in application can limit the effectiveness of fall pre-emergent herbicides. Here are some tips on what to avoid:

  • Skipping Watering: Pre-emergents need to be watered in to activate. Without proper watering, the herbicide won’t penetrate the soil and may fail to create an effective barrier.
  • Allowing Foot Traffic: Heavy foot traffic on freshly applied areas can disrupt the soil and reduce the pre-emergent’s effectiveness. Avoid disturbing the soil until it has been properly watered and settled.

Property managers and homeowners can ensure that their fall pre-emergent applications provide maximum benefits by following these tips.

Lawn Care Practices to Maximize Weed Prevention

For the best results, fall lawn care should be comprehensive. “Combining proper lawn care practices with fall pre-emergent applications creates a more resilient and weed-free landscape,” Breed recommends. Here are some practices to consider:

  • Lower Turf Height: Reducing the turf height helps the pre-emergent herbicide work more effectively.
  • Spray Out Existing Weeds: Address current weed pressure before applying the pre-emergent.
  • Water-In the Pre-Emergent Application: This is crucial for activating the herbicide.
  • Second Application (Optional): In some cases, a second pre-emergent treatment in late winter may help reinforce the barrier.

Following these steps can help you maintain a healthy lawn through the cooler months and ensure it’s ready for spring.

Trust the Experts at Southern Botanical for a Healthy Lawn

Planning ahead with a fall pre-emergent application is the smartest way to prevent weeds in the spring. Southern Botanical’s expert team can assess your landscape, create a customized weed prevention plan, and ensure proper application for maximum results. By taking action in the fall, you can save time, money, and effort come spring.

Contact Southern Botanical today to learn more about our professional lawn care services. With the right care, your property can achieve the lush, green lawn you’ve always wanted.