With Myrtle Beach’s warm climate and sandy soil, homeowners experience challenges obtaining healthy lawns. A proactive approach is the best way to grow a healthy, weed-free lawn. Pre-emergent weed control is one of the most effective weed deterrents, but you must apply it at the right time.
Targeting weeds in Myrtle Beach yards means using pre-emergent herbicides before the weeds germinate. Lawn Squad® recommends applying pre-emergent by mid-March for the best results.
Understanding Pre-Emergent Weed Control
Pre-emergent weed control targets weeds before they begin to germinate. Post-emergent herbicides attack weeds that have already grown.
Pre-emergent herbicides create a soil barrier that prevents weeds from growing into mature plants. This treatment method is especially beneficial for annual weeds like crabgrass and henbit, which can grow out of control if left unchecked.
The key to making pre-emergent herbicides work is timing. Pre-emergents will not work on weeds already in existence. We must apply pre-emergent products as early as possible in the South Carolina growing season. Proactive approaches can help reduce the number of weeds that invade your lawn throughout the summer.
Weed Threats in Myrtle Beach
The environment of Myrtle Beach allows some weeds to grow more prolifically than others. The primary factor in this is our loamy soil. Myrtle Beach soil has poor drainage and low organic material. The most persistent weeds in this area include the following.
Crabgrass
Crabgrass is a formidable enemy for Myrtle Beach home and business owners. It grows well in sandy soils and warm temperatures. Crabgrass can grow abundantly if left untreated, choking out healthy grass growth. Pre-emergent herbicides are especially beneficial when applied before the soil warms.
Spurge
Spurge is a low-growing ground cover weed that thrives in the heat and can quickly spread across your lawn, driveway, and walkways. It is difficult to remove once it takes root. Pre-emergent treatments can help prevent the spread of spurge. If you already have a spurge problem, you should seek post-emergent herbicides.
Nutsedge
Nutsedge resembles grass but has a triangular stem instead of a round one. This weed is more challenging to manage with standard pre-emergent herbicides, as many do not effectively control nutsedge. Specialized products, such as those containing halosulfuron or sulfentrazone, are typically needed for prevention and control. You also need a long-term weed prevention plan that includes proper drainage to help limit nutsedge growth.
Annual Bluegrass
Annual bluegrass germinates in the fall and can spread throughout the cool months. Using pre-emergent in late summer can prevent annual bluegrass from taking over your yard during the colder months.
The Benefits of Pre-Emergent Herbicides
Pre-emergent herbicides offer a proactive approach to weed control. They can help you avoid the need for post-emergent herbicides.
Prevents Weed Growth Before It Begins
Many Myrtle Beach homeowners prefer using pre-emergent herbicides because they prevent weed growth from starting. It is always better to act proactively than reactively; pre-emergent treatments can save you time and money.
Reduces the Need for Chemical Treatments
Once weeds take root in your yard, they can spread quickly and become challenging to remove. Pre-emergent herbicides reduce the need to use harsh chemicals on your yawn. Well-timed intervention can ensure a healthy lawn without so much ongoing weed treatment.
Encourages a Stronger, Healthier Lawn
Weeds compete with grass for water, nutrients, and sunlight. Preventing weed infestations with pre-emergent herbicides allows grass to grow much stronger and healthier. A denser and healthier lawn will naturally discourage weed growth.
Saves You Back-Breaking Labor
Hand-pulling weeds or using multiple post-emergent treatments can be exhausting. However, you can apply pre-emergents and see lasting results without the hard work.
Improves Your Lawn’s Appearance
Weeds can disfigure your yard’s appearance. No matter how meticulously you have grown and manicured the grass, it does not take long for weeds to take over. Weeds create uneven patches and ruin the manicured look of your yard. Your Myrtle Beach property will remain beautiful if you prevent weeds from growing.
Information on Applying Pre-Emergent Herbicides
While pre-emergent treatments are highly effective, they must be applied properly and on the right schedule. Our technicians at Lawn Squad® can help you determine the correct approach to pre-emergent care. The following tips are critical for achieving the best outcome.
Apply at the Right Time
One of the most important decisions you will make is when to apply pre-emergent. In Myrtle Beach, the best time is in early spring, before the soil temperatures rise above 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Seeds begin germination at this temperature. Applying in early spring wards off weeds during the summer. You should also apply pre-emergents again in late summer to keep weeds from growing during the fall and winter.
Select the Right Product
Not all pre-emergent herbicides are the same. There are liquid, granular, synthetic, and organic options. There are also broad-spectrum and more targeted weed treatments.
We can help you determine the correct pre-emergent weed treatment for your needs. Our technicians at Lawn Squad® can create a treatment schedule that will help keep weeds away all year.
Water After Application
Most pre-emergent herbicides need water to activate. Lightly watering your lawn after application ensures the pre-emergent forms a proper soil barrier. Water helps the pre-emergent move from the surface down into the soil, where the seeds lie. Applying pre-emergent without watering will lead to lackluster results.
Do Not Disturb the Soil
You should not disturb the soil after applying pre-emergent. Doing so risks breaking the barrier. Do not rake, till, or dig. If your lawn needs aeration, always do it before applying pre-emergent in the spring.
Combine With Proper Lawn Care
Pre-emergents cannot replace proper lawn care. These weed treatments are most effective with an appropriate lawn care regimen. Regular mowing, adequate fertilization, and consistent watering help your grass stay healthy and strong. We can help you achieve thicker growth that results in a lush, green lawn.
Common Pre-Emergent Mistakes
Many homeowners in Myrtle Beach struggle with pre-emergents because there are so many to choose from. It’s essential to avoid the following mistakes that could make your pre-emergent less effective.
Applying Too Late
You should not apply a pre-emergent after weeds have already sprouted. Once they have, always use post-emergent herbicides targeted to your specific weed problem.
Using the Wrong Products
Before using a pre-emergent, learn as much as possible about it. Ensure it targets the specific weeds that grow in the Myrtle Beach area. When used correctly and at the right time, pre-emergents should not damage a mature lawn.
Skipping Reapplication
It is essential to note that you may need to apply pre-emergents more than once a year. We can help you determine which application periods will offer the most effective treatment against weeds.
Overseeding Too Soon
You also need to know that pre-emergents can prevent grass seeds from germinating. If you plan to overseed, you must carefully consider pre-emergent treatments to avoid wasted time and money. After applying a pre-emergent, you should wait at least three to four months before overseeding.
Keep Your Myrtle Beach Lawn Weed-Free
You spend a lot of time creating a beautiful lawn that adds curb appeal to your property. No one wants to have to deal with a constant barrage of weeds. Adding pre-emergent herbicides to your lawn treatment schedule can stop them before they even germinate.
These treatments improve your lawn’s health and reduce labor. We are here to guide you every step of the way and offer a tailored application schedule that addresses your specific lawn weeds.
Lawn Squad® is your trusted lawn care specialist in Myrtle Beach. We offer a range of services for residential and commercial properties. Our multi-pronged attack on weeds helps to ensure a beautiful and healthy lawn throughout the year.
Contact our professionals at Lawn Squad® for weed control in Myrtle Beach.
