Overview
Crabgrass Preventers & Lawn Maintenance
You can prevent a crabgrass infestation by using a pre-emergent crabgrass preventer, as well as employing some fairly simple but effective cultural practices.
Step
1
Apply A Crabgrass Preventer
(Pre-Emergent Herbicide)
Crabgrass preventers, or pre-emergent crabgrass killers, will prevent crabgrass from growing, killing it before it grows above ground. Timing is very important and knowing when to apply the crabgrass preventer will make all the difference.
- Pre-emergent herbicides must be applied before seeds begin to germinate, which is generally when the soil temperatures reach 55 degrees. This will vary depending on where you live. Contact your local extension office for some tips on when to apply pre-emergents in your area.
- Choose a product labeled for control of crabgrass.
- Read label and follow instructions carefully. Many of these products must be watered in and may have other recommendations for maximum effectiveness.
Products needed for Step 1
Step
2
Proper Lawn Maintenance
Since the seeds of crabgrass rely upon the sun to grow and thrive, a thick, robust turf will help to block seeds and seedlings from sun and prevent them from taking hold. There are some proper lawn maintenance practices you can follow to ensure your grass is as healthy and lush as possible:
- Proper mowing: Try to maintain a higher grass height of 2 to 2.5 inches. It's crucial to aim to remove only 1/3 of your grass at each mow while maintaining the desired height. This may mean you have to mow more often to maintain the target height.
- Proper irrigation: Watering your lawn less frequently but for longer periods of time is a more effective way for your grass to get moisture and allows roots to grow deeply.
- Proper fertilization: Fertilize your lawn as needed, following the lawn care schedule for your cool or warm season lawn. Avoid under or over fertilization.