Crabgrass Survival in Winter: An Insight into Weed Seasonal Growth Patterns
In the battle against unsightly and harmful crabgrass, a well-maintained lawn is the best defence. Garden expert Glen, with over 15 years of experience in garden maintenance, design, and landscaping services, shares his insights on effective strategies to keep crabgrass at bay during the growing season.
The key to successful crabgrass prevention lies in early intervention and maintaining a healthy turfgrass. **Applying a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring** is crucial. This creates a chemical barrier in the soil that prevents crabgrass from sprouting. Timing is paramount; apply the pre-emergent when soil temperatures reach the threshold for crabgrass germination, typically around early spring or when forsythia blooms. Granular or spray forms are available, and watering it in helps activate the treatment. Pre-emergents commonly contain active ingredients like prodiamine, and natural options with corn gluten meal exist but may be less consistent.
When prevention measures fail, **post-emergent herbicides** can be used to target visible crabgrass plants. Selective herbicides containing quinclorac, sethoxydim, fluazifop, or mesotrione (Tenacity) can kill crabgrass without harming certain grass types. However, it's essential to confirm the safety of the product for your specific lawn grass species to avoid damage. Reapplication may be needed if plants persist after 2-3 weeks.
Maintaining a thick, healthy lawn is another essential aspect of crabgrass control. **Proper mowing height**, fertilization, and watering practices play significant roles in promoting dense growth and reducing sunlight reaching the soil's surface, making it difficult for crabgrass to establish.
**Manual removal** by hand-pulling small crabgrass patches can also be effective if infestation is light.
In summary, **early spring application of a suitable pre-emergent herbicide combined with cultural lawn care practices** is the most effective prevention approach. Post-emergent treatments help control outbreaks if crabgrass appears despite prevention efforts. Avoid home remedies like boiling water or vinegar, as they can harm desirable grass and do not eradicate roots.
For more helpful gardening tips and advice, visit Glen's blog, where he regularly shares articles on garden fungicides, the optimal harvest time for Candy Cane Peppers, and the optimal harvest time for watermelons. With these strategies in mind, you'll be well on your way to a crabgrass-free, healthy, and aesthetically pleasing lawn.
[1] University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (2019). Integrated Weed Management for Home Gardens.
A balanced lifestyle that includes taking care of one's home and garden can lead to a healthy and aesthetically pleasing lawn. For instance, applying a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring creates a barrier against crabgrass, as recommended by experts like Glen. Additionally, maintaining a thick and healthy lawn through proper mowing height, fertilization, and watering practices helps reduce the chances of crabgrass infestation.
For those interested in fashion and beauty, Glen's blog also offers advice on garden fungicides, which can be seen as part of self-development, helping one achieve a desired appearance for their lawn.
And for those who enjoy travel, learning about different gardening methods and solutions across various universities, such as the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, Purdue University Extension, Michigan State University Extension, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, and University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment, can provide a unique and educational experience.
