Apply crabgrass preventer in spring, before seeds germinate.
Crabgrass is a common annual weed that spreads from seed, capable of overwintering and germinating the following spring. The most typical way to combat this weed is with a preemergent herbicide. Scotts Halts Crabgrass Preventer is one of a number of preemergence treatments available in garden centers. Like any herbicide that works as a preemergent, it is only effective if it is applied at the right time of the year. Does this Spark an idea?
Apply in Spring
Most preemergent crabgrass treatments work by interrupting cell division in the roots of the newly germinated seed. This means that the preemergent must be applied in the spring before the crab grass germinates, which can happen once soil temperatures reach 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Scotts recommends applying the Halts Crabgrass Preventer from February to April.
Spring Comes at Different Times in Different Places
Crabgrass germinates according to the soil temperature, not the calender. In Southern California, crabgrass begins to germinate in the middle of January. In northern Minnesota, it may not germinate until the middle of May, or even later. Scotts' recommended application period is a general guideline meant to apply to the largest possible audience, but it can't and shouldn't take the place of common sense.
Each Year is Different
Taking into account the weather conditions in a given year is just as important as regional differences in the arrival of spring. Climatic variation each spring can cause soil to warm up earlier than expected or to remain colder than usual. A homeowner who is planning to use Halts Crabgrass Preventer should pay attention to the weather. One way to avoid doubt as to when to apply the preemergent is to have an inexpensive soil thermometer on hand. These are available at garden centers or from many online horticultural supply businesses.
More Than One Application May be Necessary
Although Scotts states that the Halts Crabgrass Preventer lasts all growing season, this again is a general guideline that may not apply to every region of the country. Spring is the best time to apply crabgrass preventer, but crabgrass can germinate during the entirety of the growing season. Preemergents also degrade more quickly in heat, as quickly as three to six weeks in parts of Florida. In that state, a second application is recommended 60 days after the first, regardless of which preemergent is used.
Tags: Halts Crabgrass, Halts Crabgrass Preventer, Crabgrass Preventer, available garden, available garden centers
