Crabgrass is a summer annual grassy weed that can spread thousands of seeds during its lifespan. Crabgrass germinates when soil temperatures reach a consistent 55 degrees F and is
generally killed at the first frost. Crabgrass leaves are rolled in the
bud; the first leaf appears short, wide and blunt-tipped. The ligule is
tall and membranous with jagged edges, and the auricles are absent.
Do
not seed, core aerate or verticut when soil and weather conditions are
appropriate for the germination of crabgrass. A slightly raised mowing
height may help prevent the establishment of crabgrass by providing
shade from sunlight. When crabgrass is going to seed, lower the mowing
height and collect clippings to prevent seed establishment.
(Source:
Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University)
Selecting a Crabgrass preventer can be overwhelming with all the choices available. Here is a recap of our best Crabgrass prevention options:
Hi-Yield® Herbicide Granules
Contains: Treflan® (Compare to Preen®)
• Prevents for 4 to 10 weeks depending on how deep it is worked into the soil
• Must come in contact with the soil to work
• Can be used around vegetables
• Product info
ferti•lome® Crabgrass Preventer plus Lawn Food
Contains: Dimension®• Prevents for 3 to 4 months with a slow release fertilizer, feeds up to 8 weeks
• Also has post emergent properties on very young weeds and grasses
• Analysis 20-0-3
• Product info
Hi-Yield® Turf & Ornamental
Contains: Dimension®, no fertilizer
• Pre and Post emergent properties, prevents for 3 to 4 months
• Can be used in a landscape bed, around flowers, trees, shrubs and the yard
• Product info
ferti•lome® Weed-Out Pro Turf
Contains: Dimension® and Trimec®
• Prevents for 3 to 4 months with a slow release fertilizer, feeds up to 8 weeks
• Prevents weeds and kills broadleaf weeds in one application
• Step 1 and 2 together
• Analysis 20-0-4
• Product info
ferti•lome® For All Seasons II
Contains: Prodiamine (Compare to Barricade)
• Prevents summer weeds and grasses for 4 to 8 months. Low fertilizer amount
• Apply as early as possible, even the fall. Great for grassy sandbur
• Analysis 16-0-8
• Product info
ferti•lome® Broadleaf Weed Control
Contains: Gallery®, no fertilizer
• Prevents broadleaf weeds for up to 8 months. Apply in spring or fall
• May be used on turf or ornamental beds
• Product info
On all preventers except Weed-Out Pro Turf, apply and water in. Weed-Out Pro Turf, apply when wet and water in after 24 hours.