top of page

Say Goodbye to Kansas City Weeds: The Ultimate Guide to Pre-Emergent vs. Post-Emergent Herbicides

Writer's picture: jason clarksonjason clarkson


Tackling Pesky Weeds in Kansas City: Understanding Pre-Emergent and Post-Emergent Herbicides

Weeds can be a real nuisance, especially here in Kansas City, where our diverse climate allows for a wide variety of these pesky plants to thrive. If you've ever looked out at your lawn only to be greeted by unwanted intruders like dandelions, crabgrass, or clover, you're not alone. But fear not—there are effective strategies for managing weeds and maintaining a lush, healthy lawn. One of the most important tools in your lawn care arsenal is understanding the difference between pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides.

Common Weeds in Kansas City

Before diving into herbicides, let's take a quick look at some of the most common weeds that plague Kansas City lawns:

  1. Crabgrass - This annual weed is a warm-season troublemaker that can quickly overtake your lawn if left unchecked. Crabgrass thrives in hot, dry conditions, making it a significant issue during Kansas City's sweltering summers.

  2. Dandelions - Known for their bright yellow flowers, dandelions are a perennial weed with deep taproots that make them difficult to remove by hand. They can spread rapidly, especially in the spring.

  3. Clover - While some people appreciate clover for its nitrogen-fixing properties, it's generally considered a weed when it starts to take over turfgrass. It tends to grow well in under-fertilized lawns.

  4. Broadleaf Plantain - This perennial weed has wide, flat leaves and thrives in compacted soil, making it a common sight in lawns that suffer from poor drainage.

What is a Pre-Emergent Herbicide?

A pre-emergent herbicide is a proactive weed control solution that targets weeds before they even have a chance to sprout. As the name suggests, "pre-emergent" means that the herbicide is applied to your lawn before the weeds emerge from the soil. These herbicides work by creating a chemical barrier at the soil's surface, preventing weed seeds from germinating.

Pre-emergent herbicides are particularly effective against annual weeds like crabgrass. The key to success with pre-emergent herbicides is timing. In Kansas City, it's crucial to apply them in early spring (typically late March to early April) before the soil temperature reaches 55°F, which is when weed seeds start to germinate. For fall-germinating weeds like henbit and chickweed, a second application in late summer or early fall may be necessary.

What is a Post-Emergent Herbicide?

While pre-emergent herbicides are great for preventing weeds, what do you do if they've already taken root in your lawn? That's where post-emergent herbicides come into play. As the name implies, post-emergent herbicides are designed to kill weeds that have already emerged from the soil.

These herbicides work by being absorbed into the weed's foliage and then translocated to the root system, ultimately killing the entire plant. Post-emergent herbicides are effective against a wide range of weeds, including broadleaf weeds like dandelions and clover, as well as grassy weeds like crabgrass.

When using post-emergent herbicides, it's important to read the label carefully. Some formulations are selective, meaning they target specific types of weeds while leaving your turfgrass unharmed, while others are non-selective and can damage any plant they come into contact with. In Kansas City, the best time to apply post-emergent herbicides is during the growing season, when weeds are actively growing and easier to kill.

A Strategic Approach to Weed Control

Maintaining a weed-free lawn in Kansas City requires a strategic approach that combines both pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides. Here's a general timeline to follow:

  1. Early Spring: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent annual weeds like crabgrass from germinating.

  2. Late Spring to Early Summer: Monitor your lawn for any emerging weeds. Spot-treat with a post-emergent herbicide as needed.

  3. Late Summer to Early Fall: Apply a second round of pre-emergent herbicide to target fall-germinating weeds. Continue to spot-treat any existing weeds with a post-emergent herbicide.

  4. Fall: Focus on lawn care practices that promote healthy turfgrass, such as aeration, overseeding, and proper fertilization, to reduce the chances of weeds returning next season.

By understanding the differences between pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides and applying them at the right times, you can keep your Kansas City lawn looking its best all year round. Remember, a healthy lawn is the best defense against weeds, so don't forget to maintain proper mowing, watering, and fertilization practices as well.

If you're unsure about which products to use or when to apply them, consider reaching out to Turf Geeks who understands the specific needs of Kansas City lawns. With the right knowledge and tools, you can win the battle against weeds and enjoy a beautiful, lush lawn.

0 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page