Overseeding Crabgrass After An Herbicide

Overseeding Crabgrass After An Herbicide

Crabgrass is an annual plant that propagates through small seeds. These seeds are transported by birds, pets and garden implements. The crabgrass seeds germinate when temperatures reach between 53 degrees F and 58 degrees F. Eradication of the crabgrass is performed by either a pre-emergent or post emergent herbicide. According to the North Carolina extension service, pre-emergent herbicide is best applied prior to temperatures reaching 53 degrees F. All herbicides must be applied well in advance prior to any over seeding of the lawn.

List:
Pre-emergent herbicide (granular)
Spreader
Garden Hose
Sprinkler
Post emergent herbicide
Sprayer (optional)
Rope wick applicator (optional)

Apply the pre-emergent herbicide to the affected lawn area prior to temperatures reaching 53 degrees F. Follow the label directions as various herbicides will react differently to grass species and climates. Spread the granular herbicide to the lawn.

Water the granules into the lawn using the garden hose and sprinkler. Most all granular herbicides require water so the chemical can dissolve and soak into the soil.

Wait approximately 6 weeks to 8 weeks for effectiveness of the pre-emergent herbicide. A second application of the pre-emergent herbicide may be warranted for extended season control.

Inspect the lawn for signs of crabgrass growth. Areas that have active growing crabgrass plants, may require spot treatment with a post emergent herbicide from either a sprayer or rope wick applicator.

Mix the chemical according to label directions. Apply the herbicide solution to only the areas that show signs of the crabgrass plants. Use the smallest stream setting on a sprayer. Over spray from the spray application may affect other plants. Rope wick applicators allow you to only treat the leaves of the crabgrass plants, and are effective for spot treatments.

Words to the Wise:
Post emergent herbicide application may kill the lawn grass that is already established. Check all label direction for tolerance to the herbicide for your particular species of turf grass.
Keep children and pets from any area that is treated with a chemical.
Excessive run off from chemicals may cause harm to aquatic life.