Learn about pre-emergent weed control for Bermuda grass. Before then, let’s have a brief overview of grass and weed control.
It’s not easy to maintain a healthy, lush, and stunning landscape around the house. Several actions are needed, including keeping it weed-free.
If you have Bermuda grass around your home, you may want to consider using pre-emergent weed control. It’s an economical way of keeping tropical lawns weed-free.
Pre-emergent weed controls prevent weeds from germinating by targeting weed seeds before they emerge.
An Overview of Bermuda Grass
Bermuda grass is a warm-season grass that is popular for its durability and ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. The grass can grow in both warm and cold weather.
It is commonly used on lawns, sports fields, and golf courses.
Bermuda grass is also known for quickly spreading and filling in bare spots, making it a popular choice for those seeking to establish a thick, lush lawn in a short period.
Types of Pre-Emergent Herbicides for Bermuda Grass
Pre-emergent herbicide is designed to prevent weeds from growing further after germination. For maximum effectiveness, it is best applied to the soil before the weeds sprout.
Several pre-emergent herbicides are available in various formulations. While some are friendly to Bermuda grass, others are very toxic.
Before selecting a herbicide, it’s vital to know which one will work best for your specific grass type. Below are the different pre-emergent herbicides for Bermuda grass.
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Synthetic Pre-Emergents
Pre-emergent herbicides are weed control products engineered to prevent the germination of specific weeds. These products are highly effective and specifically designed to target unwanted weeds.
A few pre-emergent weed controls you can use for Bermuda include pendimethalin, dithiopyr, and prodiamine, among others. These herbicides aren’t only effective but also help Bermuda thrive excellently.
Additionally, synthetic pre-emergent herbicides are effective across a range of weather conditions when used according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
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Natural or Organic Weed Control
If you prefer natural or organic options, some substances can prevent weeds from disturbing Bermuda grass.
It’s an environmentally friendly approach to weed management. The weed controls are made from natural materials, including plants and minerals. They do not pose a risk to beneficial organisms.
Some popular natural herbicides for Bermuda grass include corn gluten meal, mulching, salt, and vinegar. These options not only prevent weeds from growing but also provide nitrogen to the soil.
However, natural weed control may be less effective than other alternatives. There may be a need to apply frequently for maximum effectiveness.
It also takes longer to achieve the desired results and requires time to build up soil efficiency.
Top Pre-Emergent Herbicides for Bermuda Grass
There are many brands of pre-emergent weed control on the market. These herbicides are available in both granular and liquid forms to meet users’ individual needs.
However, they have consistently been shown to protect Bermuda grass from weeds. Below are a few you can take advantage of.
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The Andersons DG Pro Turf Barricade
If you want granular pre-emergent weed control for your Bermuda grass, consider this herbicide.
It’s not only practical but also safe for your lush. The herbicide contains the active ingredient prodiamine. It works by creating a barrier that prevents weeds from developing.
You can use it on over 30 common broadleaf and grassy weeds. Henbit, plantain, dandelion, chickweed, carpetweed, purslane, oxalis, crabgrass, and annual bluegrass (Poa annua).
These include the herbicide, which is easy to use and quickly absorbed by the soil after watering. It comes in two bag sizes and can cover at least 12,000 sq. ft.
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Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG
Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG is another excellent weed control for Bermuda grass. The herbicide also contains prodiamine and can control more than 40 broadleaf and grassy weeds.
These include common summer annual and cool-season weeds, such as henbit, foxtail, knotweed, Poa annua, goosegrass, spurge, lamb’s quarters, and chickweed.
What makes this pre-emergent herbicide exceptional is its power on lawns and golf courses. A small quantity can cover a large area when mixed with water.
Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG is available in a 5-pound granular container.
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Dimension 2EW Dithiopyr Pre-Emergent Herbicide
You can also rely on this pre-emergent herbicide to control weeds for your Bermuda grass.
The herbicide is available in liquid form and contains the active ingredient dithiopyr. It can also prevent many broadleaf and grassy weed species from disturbing your Bermuda grass.
Dimension 2EW Dithiopyr pre-emergent herbicide requires early application for maximum effectiveness. It is ideal for commercial settings, including athletic fields, parks, and golf courses.
However, many users find the instructions in the manufacturer’s guide confusing.
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Scotts Halts Crabgrass and Grassy Weed Preventer
If you’re looking for a granular pre-emergent weed control that effectively prevents crabgrass and Poa annua, this herbicide is an excellent choice.
It contains the potent herbicide pendimethalin, which controls many grass and broadleaf weeds. You can also use it to prevent moss from growing.
This pre-emergent herbicide is easy to spread, and the granules dissolve quickly after watering. It can cover up to 5,000 square feet when mixed with water in the appropriate proportions.
However, you must wait a considerable amount of time before achieving the desired result.
Important Consideration
Several factors should be considered when selecting a pre-emergent weed control for Bermuda grass. Putting these factors in check will help you choose the best herbicide to keep your beautiful, lush lawn weed-free.
One key factor to consider is timing. Most pre-emergent weed controls are best applied in early spring and fall. That’s when the soil temperature reaches 55°F, effectively preventing weed germination.
Also, opt for herbicides with excellent customer reviews. We’ve listed some recommended products you can use to control weeds around your Bermuda grass.
Lastly, avoid overseeding when applying a pre-emergent weed control for effectiveness. By doing so, you’ll help maintain healthy grass while preventing the growth of unwanted weeds.
Using pre-emergent weed control for Bermuda grass comes with several benefits. Beyond weed control, it improved turf health and reduced labor costs.
If your Bermuda grass is being disturbed by weeds, the herbicides shown above are effective for controlling them. Before selecting any product, carefully read and follow the instructions.