When it comes to taking care of your Oklahoma lawn, timing is everything. Fall may feel like a time when everything starts to slow down, from the grass growing more slowly to trees shedding their leaves, but under the ground, processes are taking place that can be a headache if not addressed. Many cool-season weeds will start to germinate as temperatures drop, ready to emerge in spring if not properly controlled. That is why fall pre-emergent can help address these weeds before they even sprout, leaving your lawn healthier and looking better than before. Today, the professionals at New Season Landscaping will discuss what fall pre-emergent treatments are and how they can benefit your lawn.
Why Fall is the Best Time for Pre-Emergent Weed Control
As the Oklahoma weather starts to cool, many stubborn weeds like henbit, chickweed, and pao annua will begin to germinate, lying dormant in the winter and exploding suddenly in the fall. Because of this, fall is the best time to get ahead of these weeds before they ever become an issue. By putting down a pre-emergent treatment during the fall, you are effectively creating a barrier that blocks those weeds from sprouting in the spring. This not only keeps your lawn looking cleaner through the winter but also sets it up for healthier, thicker growth once the warmer months return.
How Pre-Emergent Treatments Work
Contrary to what you might think, pre-emergent herbicides don’t actually kill existing weeds. These herbicides actually target the seeds before they even begin to sprout. If applied correctly, the pre-emergent treatment will create a protective barrier that disrupts the germination process and prevents weeds from developing roots. Once you, or a professional landscaping company, puts down this treatment, it must be watered in to help it activate. This treatment works best before the soil drops below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring the barrier is in place just as fall-germinating weeds try to take hold. By applying it at the right time, you set your lawn up for a cleaner, healthier start heading into spring.
Benefits of Fall Weed Control
Fall weed prevention is a critical and often overlooked step in maintaining a healthy lawn. Besides saving you time and the frustration of having to pull weeds in the spring manually, there are many benefits that will have your lawn thanking you:
- Fewer weeds reduce the competition for water, nutrients, and sunlight
- Creates a thicker and more resilient lawn
- Reduces the need for post-emergent treatments later
- Keeps your lawn looking fresh year-round
Schedule Fall Pre-Emergent Weed Control
Fall pre-emergent treatment is one of the multi-step applications that professional landscaping companies, like New Season Landscaping, will utilize to achieve a perfect-looking lawn. Whether you choose to lay down your own pre-emergent treatment or decide to trust a professional all depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re in the Norman area and want an expert who is reliable and puts their customers first, we’re the ones to call. Give our team a call, or click below for a free quote today.