Crabgrass is a type of lawn weed common enough to earn its own type of lawn care products known as crabgrass preventers. This tricky plant frequently slips underneath lawn mowers and spreads its seeds liberally to take over your yard. Therefore, the best way to remove and prevent crabgrass is by using one of a variety of herbicidal crabgrass preventers.
Here is a short guide to the most common types of crabgrass preventers and how they work:
Liquid & granular
For large lawns, liquid preventers are an efficient way to prevent and kill crabgrass. It’s also helpful for applying to lawn edges and cracks in sidewalks, patios and driveways.
Granular formulas are a better choice for smaller lawns. However, they can take longer to work than liquid versions due to a slower absorption rate.
Organic
Some organic options for killing crabgrass include corn gluten and vinegar. While these methods take much longer than synthetic products, you won’t have to worry about the effects of harsh chemicals on your yard. If you don’t mind synthetic herbicides, there are plenty of options available from your local garden center or lawn care professionals.
Selective & non-selective
Selective herbicide is a product containing chemicals that target specific weeds rather than affecting everything they touch. There are selective herbicides available for tackling many lawn weeds, so make sure you choose a formula specifically meant for treating crabgrass.
Non-selective herbicides, however, do not discriminate from one plant to another. This means they can kill multiple types of weeds plaguing your lawn, but they might also harm the grass. The key to using non-selective herbicides is to apply them exactly as directed to get rid of crabgrass but avoid unwanted damage.
Knowing when to apply
No matter your chosen method of crabgrass control, timing is everything. The best time to apply a preventative crabgrass treatment is early spring, right as the crabgrass seeds start to germinate.
However, if you have existing crabgrass, use a post-emergent crabgrass killer. These products are specially formulated to manage grassy weeds that are already fully grown.
Crabgrass can be frustrating for homeowners with lawns, but it’s not impossible to beat. The more you know about your preventative options, the better equipped you’ll be to protect and treat your lawn.
About the Author
Rossy Figueroa
“Real estate” means so much more to me than simply buying or selling property...I believe it’s all about the people behind those transactions. A house would never be a home without them. That is why my first question to you will always be “what are your goals and how can I help you get there?”
Helping someone to plan and achieve their goals is just as important as listening to what they are. I know first-hand from over a decade of experience just how much it can take to make it happen. With honesty, diligence, and resilience, however, no hurdle is unconquerable. I can guide you through the entire process, always making you feel comfortable, informed, and in control. Like I said before, you are always the first priority.
I chose to partner with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Real Time Realty because, just like me, they realize that real estate agents are much more than salespeople. Every person and every goal is just as important as the last - and Berkshire Hathaway has all the tools and resources to get the job done.
It’s been an absolute privilege to meet some of you and help you achieve your goals. I can’t wait to meet the rest. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or both, I am confident that I am the last agent you’ll need. A better future awaits...give me a call and let’s get started!
