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Crabgrass
is a warm season annual grass. While it germinates in spring, its most
vigorous growth depends on warm summer days.
Crabgrass
seeds germinate late winter and early spring when soil temperatures
reach 65 degrees Fahrenheit for at least one week.
The
best way to rid lawns of crabgrass is to apply a preemergent herbicide.
This herbicide creates a barrier in your lawn that prevents crabgrass
seeds from germinating.
The
time of year to apply a preemergent depends on the weed as well as the
weather we’re having. Warmer weather in February and March will
accelerate things, while cold, wintry weather will delay weed seed
germination. Also, some seeds germinate relatively early while others
wait until later when things have warmed up nicely. A good rule of thumb
is to apply preemergents when the forsythias are blooming around town.
Don’t
rake, aerate or dethatch your lawn after applying crabgrass preemergent.
The barrier can be destroyed.
Most
preemergents must be lightly watered in immediately after application. A
delay of even an hour will reduce the effectiveness of the product.
Know
your weeds. A lot of people think they have crabgrass when in reality
they have Bermuda grass or a field fescue which are both perennials and
won’t be affected by a preemergent.
Something
else to remember about crabgrass is that it absolutely will not grow in
the shade. If your weed is growing in shade, it’s not crabgrass.
Prevention
of crabgrass invasions is best accomplished by having a thick, vigorous
lawn. Proper fertilizing schedules and amounts along with the
appropriate mowing height will keep crabgrass seed from getting a
foothold in your lawn. |
