Bermuda grass can be beautiful, but weeds popping up in the fall can ruin its look. That’s where pre-emergent herbicides come in. Applying one in the fall can prevent many common winter weeds from germinating, giving your Bermuda grass a head start in the spring. I’ve tested quite a few over the years and found some clear winners. This guide will walk you through the best pre-emergent options for keeping your Bermuda lawn weed-free this fall.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Prodiamine 65 WDG: Best overall, provides long-lasting control.
- Dimension 2EW: Excellent for crabgrass and broadleaf weeds.
- Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer: User-friendly granular option.
- Tenacity Turf Herbicide: Versatile, controls a wide range of weeds.
- Barricade Pre-Emergent Herbicide: Professional-grade, long-lasting protection.
Top 5 Best Fall Pre Emergent For Bermuda Grass
1. Prodiamine 65 WDG
Prodiamine 65 WDG is a popular choice for its effectiveness and long-lasting weed control. It’s a water-dispersible granule that you mix with water and spray onto your lawn. Prodiamine creates a barrier in the soil that prevents weed seeds from germinating. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something that offers season-long protection.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides excellent, long-lasting pre-emergent control.
- ✅ Effective against a wide range of weeds.
- ✅ Cost-effective due to its concentrated form.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires careful mixing and application.
- ❌ Can stain surfaces if not applied properly.
- ❌ Not effective against existing weeds.
Verdict: Best for those needing long-lasting weed prevention and are comfortable with mixing and spraying herbicides.
2. Dimension 2EW
Dimension 2EW is another top contender, known for its effectiveness against crabgrass and various broadleaf weeds. It’s a liquid formulation that’s easy to mix and apply. Dimension also has some post-emergent activity, meaning it can control very young, newly emerged weeds, giving it an edge over some other pre-emergents.
Pros:
- ✅ Offers both pre- and early post-emergent control.
- ✅ Excellent for crabgrass and broadleaf weed control.
- ✅ Easy to mix and apply liquid formulation.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than some other options.
- ❌ Effectiveness can be reduced if heavy rain occurs shortly after application.
- ❌ May not control all types of weeds.
Verdict: A solid choice for those dealing with crabgrass and wanting some early post-emergent control.
3. Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer
Scotts Halts is a granular pre-emergent that’s very user-friendly. You simply apply it with a spreader, making it a convenient option for homeowners. It’s particularly effective at preventing crabgrass and other grassy weeds. I’ve used this on my mom’s lawn because she likes the ease of application.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to apply with a spreader.
- ✅ Granular formulation is convenient for homeowners.
- ✅ Effective at preventing crabgrass and other grassy weeds.
Cons:
- ❌ May not provide as long-lasting control as some other options.
- ❌ Can be more expensive per application than concentrated products.
- ❌ Requires watering in after application.
Verdict: Best for homeowners looking for a convenient and easy-to-apply pre-emergent, especially for crabgrass control.
4. Tenacity Turf Herbicide
Tenacity is a unique herbicide that can be used both as a pre-emergent and a post-emergent. It’s known for its ability to control a wide range of weeds, including some that are difficult to manage with other herbicides. While it can temporarily whiten the grass, it recovers quickly. It’s a bit more technical to use, but the versatility is a big plus.
Pros:
- ✅ Can be used as both a pre- and post-emergent herbicide.
- ✅ Controls a wide range of weeds.
- ✅ Effective against some difficult-to-control weeds.
Cons:
- ❌ Can temporarily whiten grass.
- ❌ Requires careful application to avoid damage to desired plants.
- ❌ More expensive than some other options.
Verdict: Ideal for those who need both pre- and post-emergent control and are comfortable with a more technical product.
5. Barricade Pre-Emergent Herbicide
Barricade is a professional-grade pre-emergent that offers long-lasting protection against a wide variety of weeds. It contains prodiamine, similar to the first product on our list, but often comes in a slightly different formulation. It’s a great choice for those who want a reliable and effective solution for preventing weeds in their Bermuda grass.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides excellent, long-lasting pre-emergent control.
- ✅ Effective against a broad spectrum of weeds.
- ✅ Professional-grade formulation.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires careful mixing and application.
- ❌ Can be more expensive than some other options.
- ❌ Not effective against existing weeds.
Verdict: Best for those who want professional-grade, long-lasting weed prevention and are willing to invest in a more robust solution.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right pre-emergent herbicide for your Bermuda grass involves considering a few key factors.
- Weed Type: Identify the types of weeds you commonly encounter in your lawn. Some pre-emergents are more effective against certain weeds than others. Crabgrass, for example, is a common target, but you might also be dealing with broadleaf weeds like henbit or chickweed.
- Formulation: Pre-emergents come in granular and liquid formulations. Granular options are easy to apply with a spreader, while liquid options require mixing and spraying. Consider your comfort level with each application method.
- Longevity: Some pre-emergents offer longer-lasting control than others. If you want season-long protection, look for products like Prodiamine or Barricade. For shorter-term control, Scotts Halts might be sufficient.
- Timing: Apply pre-emergent herbicides in the fall before weed seeds germinate. This typically means when soil temperatures consistently drop below 70°F (21°C). Check your local weather patterns for the best timing.
- Safety: Always read and follow the product label carefully. Wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when applying herbicides. Keep children and pets off the treated area until it has dried.
- Budget: Pre-emergent herbicides vary in price. Consider the cost per application and the amount of coverage you’ll get from each product. Concentrated products like Prodiamine can be more cost-effective in the long run.
FAQs
Q: When is the best time to apply pre-emergent herbicide to Bermuda grass in the fall?
A: The ideal time is when soil temperatures consistently drop below 70°F (21°C). This is usually in late summer or early fall, before winter weeds start to germinate. Check your local weather patterns for the most accurate timing.
Q: Will pre-emergent herbicides kill existing weeds?
A: No, pre-emergent herbicides prevent weed seeds from germinating. They are not effective against existing weeds. For existing weeds, you’ll need to use a post-emergent herbicide.
Q: How do I apply granular pre-emergent herbicide?
A: Use a spreader to evenly distribute the granules over your lawn. After application, water the lawn thoroughly to activate the herbicide. Follow the product label for specific application rates and instructions.
Q: Can I apply pre-emergent herbicide if I plan to overseed my Bermuda grass?
A: Most pre-emergent herbicides will also prevent grass seed from germinating, so it’s generally not recommended to apply them if you plan to overseed. Some products, like Tenacity, have different application windows that might allow for overseeding, but read the label carefully.
Q: How often should I apply pre-emergent herbicide?
A: Most pre-emergent herbicides provide control for several months. Reapply as needed, following the product label recommendations. A fall application is crucial for preventing winter weeds, and a spring application can help prevent summer weeds.
Conclusion
Choosing the right pre-emergent herbicide can make a huge difference in the health and appearance of your Bermuda grass lawn. Whether you prioritize ease of use, broad-spectrum control, or long-lasting protection, there’s a product on this list that will fit your needs. By taking the time to select and apply the right pre-emergent, you can enjoy a weed-free lawn all season long.
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