Most gardeners are usually faced with weed problems on their lawns. Herbicides are crucial in the fight against perennial, annual, and biennial weeds. But, what are the best pre-emergent herbicides?
The best pre-emergent herbicides will stop weeds during or before germination, thus giving you an easier time pulling out the remaining weeds.
Best Pre-Emergent Weedkillers Reviews
However, choosing the best pre-emergent weed killer can be challenging, especially with so many brands in the market. Fortunately, we’ve put together the 5 pre-emergent herbicides along with a handy guide to help you choose the right product for your needs.
Southern Ag Amine 2, 4-D WEEDS KILLER
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If you’re looking for an effective and affordable pre-emergent herbicide, this is a great choice. The Southern Ag Amine 2, 4-D WEED KILLER has a formulation of 2, 4-D acid that’s suitable for eliminating a wide range of invasive weeds and broadleaf weeds. This weed killer is ideal for fast application in large grassy areas. The solution requires 2-3 tablespoons in 3 to 5 gallons of water.
Features
- 3.3 lbs
- 2, 4-D acid
Pros
- A great choice for contractors and landscapers
- Affordable
- Ideal for broadleaf weeds
- Suitable for large spaces like golf courses
- It covers a wide area
Cons
- It takes about two weeks to see the full effect
Preen 2164116 Plant Food Garden Weed Preventer
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The Preen 2164116 Plant Food Garden Weed Preventer is an effective and affordable product that works well in flowerbeds and lawns. It comes with an advanced formulation that’s suitable for lawns and flowerbeds without damaging your existing shrubs, grass, or flowers. This chemical has active ingredients that add nutrition to the soil, enhancing growth in your flowerbeds and garden while preventing weed growth. This product can be used in fall or spring for the best results.
Features
- 5.625 lbs
- Flip-top applicator cap
- Active ingredients
Pros
- Safe to use
- Easy to apply
- It comes with a spreader jug for easy application
- Ideal for flowerbeds and lawns
- Covers 900-square foot
Cons
- Some users complained that it burned some leaves in the pants
The Andersons Barricade Professional-Grade Granular Pre-Emergent Weed Control
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This pre-emergent herbicide has everything you need to keep your plants safe all year long. The Andersons Barricade Professional-Grade Granular Pre-Emergent guarantees protection against more than 30 types of broadleaf weeds and grass, thanks to its DG pro formula. It’s is formulated to stop weed growth without harming your plants.
Features
- 18 lb
- 0.48% prodiamine
- DG Pro formulation
Pros
- User-friendly
- Versatile product
- It comes in various sizes
- Safe on plants
Cons
- Confusing instructions
Gordon’s SpeedZone Lawn Weed Killer
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The Gordon’s SpeedZone Lawn Weed Killer is a great product for landscapers and homeowners since it comes with a concentrated formula that can cover 14,000 to 18,000-square feet. It is specially formulated to kill weeds in your garden before they emerge. This potent formulation has active ingredients that won’t harm your flowerbeds or lawn. This affordable chemical provides excellent cool-weather performance, meaning it’s a perfect choice for those living in Northern states.
Features
- 20 ounces
- Active ingredients
Pros
- Works in hours
- Excellent cool-weather performance
- It covers a wide area
- It doesn’t harm lawn grasses
Cons
- Expensive
Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG (Generic Barricade 65 WDG) (5 lbs) – Pre-Emergent Herbicide
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The Quali-Pro Prodiamine herbicide is formulated to provide professional-grade care for your flowerbeds and lawns. With this pre-emergent, you’re guaranteed a fast-killing action on all invasive grasses and weeds without harming the established plants. It is the best product for treating large areas like parks and golf courses. Additionally, it comes with effective weed control and easy application.
Features
- Liquid formulation
- 5 lbs
- 65% prodiamine
Pros
- Easy to use
- Versatile product
- Affordable
- Prevents chickweed
Cons
- Poor instructions
What is a Pre-Emergent Herbicide?
A pre-emergent weed killer is used before weeds germinate to prevent them from showing up in your lawn or garden. However, this chemical doesn’t interfere with germination, but they stop the formation of new root cells in the weed plants.
Pre-emergent herbicides are available in granular, powder, or liquid formats. They have different characteristics, and granular is easy to spread and needs water for activation. Liquid herbicides have an easy application but require keenness when diluting.
How Does Pre-Emergent Herbicide Work?
Pre-emergent herbicides have active ingredients that kill weed seedlings and seeds selectively without harming your flowers or grass. Pre-emergent herbicides kill the sensitive root tissue of newly germinated seedlings leading to plant death. Here are the characteristics of good-quality pre-emergent herbicides:
- The herbicide controls cell division.
- This product inhibits the release of specific enzymes that stimulate growth.
- It works by stopping plant growth, and preventing weeds from absorbing nutrients.
Common Application Errors When Using Pre-emergent Herbicides
Here’s what to avoid when using pre-emergent herbicide:
- Applying it on newly-seeded turf
- Applying using the sprinkler system
- Laying sod over the pre-emergent herbicide
- Applying the wrong chemical for your grass type
- Not watering after spreading herbicides
- Using pre-emergent herbicide and fertilizer simultaneously
- Using pre-emergent herbicide to damage turf
- Using pre-emergent herbicide to putting greens
Do you Use Granular or Liquid Pre-emergent?
This is dependent on your personal preference. Liquid herbicides must be applied using a properly calibrated sprayer. You should always water granular products applied by a spreader. Most herbicides out there are selective, but you should be careful when selecting one.
Regardless of the product you choose, it’s crucial to apply it evenly and thoroughly to achieve the best results. You will need to measure the exact size of your yard to mix the right amount. A pre-emergent herbicide should cover your target area totally for effective results. Ignoring a single spot means trouble because giving a weed an inch will take a yard.
FAQs
Does Pre-Emergent Help with Weed Control in My Yard?
Absolutely! Pre-emergent herbicides work by stopping weed germination and killing young weeds before they mature and spread. These herbicides give your garden the protection it requires by eliminating the threat of weeds in your grass and flowers.
What is the Best Time to Apply Pre-Emergent Herbicide?
It’s advisable to apply or spread pre-emergent herbicides in the early spring when the ground thaws or in late fall when the ground is freezing. If you have a massive weed invasion, you’ll need to treat your garden twice a year for impressive results.
Is it Possible to Use Pre-emergent Too Early in the Growing Season?
Yes, if the temperatures are above 55F, you can use pre-emergent on your flowerbeds and lawn. However, it’s advisable to wait for stable weather before treatment. This will ensure that the herbicide won’t get washed away before weeds arrive.
Where Can I Purchase the Best Pre-emergent Herbicide?
If you’re looking for a pre-emergent, we recommend buying from Amazon. Here, you’ll get an outstanding product range, the best prices, and fast shipping. Additionally, you’ll get excellent customer service and hassle-free returns.
Pre-Emergent Weedkillers Buying Guide
Unfortunately, choosing the best pre-emergent weed killer isn’t as easy as it sounds. There are different types of herbicides available out there, and selecting one that suits your weed situation can be tough. Here are some important factors to consider before making the final decision.
Selective or non-selective
A selective herbicide is designed to target certain kinds of weeds and leave other plants healthy. However, non-selective herbicides try to eliminate anything it touches, including your grass. Therefore, when looking for a pre-emergent, be careful about the product you’ll choose.
Ease of Use
Your chosen pre-emergent should be easy to use. You should not go for a herbicide that comes with hard-to-read instructions. Therefore, go for one that is easy to prepare and has easy-to-follow instructions.
Form
Pre-emergent herbicides come in two forms: granules and liquid. Although both work in a similar manner, some gardeners may prefer using one form over another. Ensure that the type you choose will suit your needs and have no effects on your grass or flowers.
Ingredients
Different pre-emergent herbicides have different ingredients. To get the best product for your garden, it’s important to understand the ingredients used in the chemical and its effects on your plants and garden.
Longevity
Pre-emergent herbicides are formulated to form a barrier in the soil and stop weed germination. Some products will protect your garden for 1 to 3 months, while others may last longer. Ensure you choose a product that will offer maximum protection to your garden and eliminate the majority of weeds.
Kid and Pet Friendly
If you have children and pets at home, their safety should be prioritized when choosing a herbicide for your lawn. Some chemicals out there have harmful ingredients but are safe after a few hours.
Safety and Application
Although most pre-emergents are safe, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear protective gear during application. After application, ensure you water the garden to encourage the chemical to seep into the soil.
The Severity of the Problem
You should always consider the condition of your flowers or grass before purchasing a pre-emergent fertilizer. Check if your garden needs basic or intensive application. By checking this, you can easily select the best herbicide that will solve your weed invasion problem.
Conclusion
Keeping your garden weed-free is the best way to maintain its lush look. It will not only make your plants healthy but will save your time in the long run.
With the pre-emergent herbicides reviewed above, you’re guaranteed a green and weed-free garden.
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