To keep your Tennessee lawn weed-free, apply pre-emergent in the fall between August 25 and September 15 and then again in the spring, between February 21 and March 15.
These time frames allow you to target weed seedlings before they germinate. You can also apply a smaller quantity of herbicide in the spring and spread it over two applications, eight weeks apart. Keep reading for more details on when to apply pre-emergent in The Volunteer State.
Fall application
Apply pre-emergent herbicide between late August to mid-September for fall/winter weed control. This application targets winter annual weeds like annual bluegrass (Poa annua) and henbit. These weeds typically germinate when soil temperatures drop below 70°F in the fall.
Fall application helps prevent these weeds from establishing during winter and early spring
Agents that control winter weeds like annual bluegrass and chickweed, should be applied when nighttime temperatures are below 60 degrees Fahrenheit, typically between August 25 and September 15.
Spring application
The best time to apply pre-emergent herbicide in the spring is between February 25 and March 15. This allows the herbicide to be in place before soil temperatures reach 55°F consistently, which is when summer annual weeds like crabgrass begin to germinate.
Applying 2-3 weeks before germination gives the pre-emergent time to create its protective barrier in the soil. Apply pre-emergent a little earlier in western Tennessee and later in eastern Tennessee.
The Department of Plant Sciences at The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture says treating summer annuals at a lower rate can “extend the length of residual control provided by a preemergence herbicide when it is applied twice.”
Find a pro near you
While you can apply pre-emergent yourself, herbicides need to be applied at the right time and in the right way to be effective and not harm the grass and ornamentals. Even more importantly, you want to make sure chemicals are handled so that you, your loved ones, and your fur babies remain safe.
Let Lawn Love professionals handle your weed management and any other landscaping and lawn care tasks. Our experts do the work while you enjoy the benefits.
Main Photo Credit: JJ Gouin | Adobe Stock | License
