Pre-Emergent Crabgrass Treatment is Great; But Will Prevent Seed From Growing

Pre-emergent crabgrass control is used in lawn care to prevent crabgrass seeds from germinating in your lawn. In 2012, Cleveland and Columbus experienced perhaps the worst crabgrass season in the past twenty years. This ugly, aggressive weed thrived in the hot, dry conditions, and was present in many lawns across Ohio. Those who did not receive crabgrass treatments by mid-april where exposed to this aggressive weed. 

What makes crabgrass preventer great, also is what makes it dangerous to new grass seed. Pre-emergent treatments will not only stop crabgrass from germinating, but it will also prevent your grass seed from germinating too.

So Spring Seeding - or - Crabgrass Prevention?

Weed Pro encourages you to seed your lawn in the fall, as opposed to the spring.  However, if you need to seed small spots throughout the lawn in the spring, it is recommended that you wait several weeks after the application of pre-emergent crabgrass control before starting any seeding work you have planned. 

What Should I Do If I've Already Applied My Pre-Emergent Crabgrass Preventer?

When applying a pre-emergent crabgrass treatment, the product creates a small microscopic barrier along the soil surface to prevent crabgrass germination, and can prevent your grass seed from germinating as well.  If you are planning on seeding shortly after this treatment, you must disrupt that barrier by cultivating the spots you plan to reseed. After cultivating the area you are planning to seed very well, it is recommended to add some fresh soil to create a good environment for the new seed.

More Seed in Spring

Due to various weather related factors in the spring, more seed is required due to poorer germination rates. For exact seeding rates, please refer to your grass seeds label recommendations. When applying the seed, sow the seed into the top 1/8 to ¼ inch into the soil with your hand or a rake, then cover the area with peat moss or straw to protect the new seeding. Doing this will also provide insulation to the area increasing the temperature and germination rates.  Additionally, Weed Pro recommends that you use a starter fertilizer to encourage proper germination

Four Things To Remember When Seeding Your Lawn This Spring:

1. Remember, pre-emergent crabgrass control will also stop new seed from germinating as well.
2. Soil temperatures are very important when it comes to spring seeding.  Soil temperatures need to be at least 50 degrees  F to be successful.
3. Seed to soil contact is CRITICALLY important
4. Cover or insulate new seeding and use a starter fertilizer to increase seed germination rates.

Looking for More Great Spring Lawn Care Tips?

Weed Pro has put together the Ultimate Spring Lawn Care and Landscape guide for the upcoming lawn care season. The best part is that you can download it absolutely free by clicking on the link below!

Robert Palmer is the founder and owner of Weed Pro Lawn Care. Since opening in 2001, Weed Pro Lawn Care has become one of the nation’s leading lawn care companies. A respected leader in both the local community & industry, Rob has received many industry awards, such as the OTF’s Lawn Care Professional of the year. Additionally, Rob is a regular contributor to the Weed Pro Blog, and other industry magazines and blogs.  Rob on Google+     Rob on LinkedIn     Rob on Twitter