The benefits of using pre-emergent herbicides on sod

Even thick, healthy sod can be overtaken by weeds if appropriate preventative actions are not taken. The most effective way to stop weeds from sprouting is to apply a pre-emergent herbicide before laying new sod. Timing is important. It is also important that consumers know the difference between a full-strength herbicide and one that can be applied to a healthy, green turf.466236047

Popular herbicides, like Round Up Quick Pro, are used by weekend gardeners and farmers alike. These easy-to-use treatments contain glyphosate. Glyphosate is gentle enough to use on delicate plants, but strong enough to kill invasive plants that are otherwise difficult to control. During the growing season, these are typically used to kill weeds growing in cracked pavement or unwanted plants on fences.

These glyphosate-based herbicides attack the growth enzyme in all plants. They will kill every plant they encounter, so great care is needed to isolate weeds and avoid spraying healthy sod. However, these herbicides are not considered dangerous to humans in small doses. Families with children and animals can apply herbicides to outdoor plants without fear. It is recommended one protects skin during application and avoids ingesting the chemical.177345699

For weed control, most sod farmers and commercial lawn specialists use a more selective herbicide, such as 2-4-D Amine. This type of per-emergent herbicide has a diluted amount of glyphosate that is effective at stunting weed growth without harming healthy plants near the offending weed.

Widespread weed control should be done during dormant months. Consumers who plan to install new sod should apply herbicides well before new sod is installed. If herbicides are applied too early or right before a rainfall, they may wash away and be ineffective. If they are applied too late, weeds may already be growing. Weeds that have already germinated will not be affected by selective herbicides. Optimal application times vary by location and the length of the growing season.

It is wise to consult a professional for specifics regarding chemical strength and herbicide application times. Following the manufacturer’s instructions is also crucial. Not doing so can cause irreparable damage to an otherwise healthy lawn.

 

How to Apply Landscaping Turf Chemicals

When it comes to applying landscaping turf chemicals it’s important to use some common sense as well as keeping the following tips in mind. Landscaping chemicals come in dry form as well as water soluble. Dry chemicals can be applied by two different methods – broadcasting spreaders or drop spreaders.

landscaping turf chemicalsWhen using a broadcast spreader to apply dry chemicals, it’s important to use the proper settings to avoid uneven greening and burning of the grass. Follow the instructions that came with the spreader. You want to be sure to apply the landscaping turf chemicals evenly across the surface of the lawn.

Tips for applying dry fertilizers
1. It’s critical to follow the manufacturers recommendations for setting up your spreader.
2. Walk at your normal walking speed. Walk back and forth. Be sure to overlap the path of the wheels when using a drop spreader. You should have an overlap at the edges of broadcast spreaders.
3. Water the lawn thoroughly after fertilizing. Watering in the fertilizer washes the nutrients into the soil where they can be best utilized by lawn roots.

landscaping turf chemicalsIf you’re using liquid or water-soluble fertilizers you apply by hand using a hose end applicator. Be forewarned that these are more difficult to apply evenly because it’s being done by hand. For those with large areas to cover the broadcast spreaders are a better route to go.

Tips for applying liquid fertilizers
1. When applying liquid fertilizers use a handheld hose end applicator.
2. Start in a corner or edge of the area to be treated and walk backwards in a straight line as you spray.
3. Be sure to turn the sprayer off at the end of each row and on again at the start of a new row.

Applying chemicals to your landscaping doesn’t have to be a complicated process. Follow these application tips and your lawn will come out looking 100% better than it ever has!