Apply herbicides soon to avoid mowing weeds this winter (08-17-09)

Did you have to mow winter weeds from your lawn this past winter and spring? Now, then, is the time to begin doing something about preventing this from happening again this winter.

Annual weeds that show up as young seedlings in the fall and become quite unsightly by mid-winter through spring, will begin germinating in only a few short weeks. A preemergence herbicide applied before these weeds germinate is the most efficient way of control. Preemergence herbicides have little effect on weeds that have already germinated, so it is important to get the herbicide out soon (late August north to late September along the coast). Labor Day is generally a good target date.

Ensure that the herbicide is activated and moves into the surface soil to form a uniform weed control barrier. A minimum of one-half inch of water either from rain or irrigation should follow shortly after the herbicide application.

Preemergence herbicides are formulated as liquids, wettable powders or water dispersible granules that are applied in sprayable form, and also as dry granules or coated on fertilizers. Choose a formulation that is best suited for you and ALWAYS READ THE LABEL for specific application instructions, weeds controlled, and safety precautions.

Extension publications Weed Control Guidelines for Mississippi and Establish and Manage Your Home Lawn provide information to help select the appropriate herbicides for specific weeds. These publications can be obtained from your county Extension office or downloaded.

Published August 17, 2009

Dr. Wayne Wells is an Extension Professor and Turfgrass Specialist. His mailing address is Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, Mail Stop 9555, Mississippi State, MS 39762. wwells@ext.msstate.edu