Bermuda grass lawns are beautiful, but keeping them weed-free can feel like a never-ending battle. Pre-emergent herbicides are a game-changer, stopping weeds before they even sprout. I’ve spent years testing different products on my own Bermuda lawn, and let me tell you, some work wonders while others are a complete waste of money. This guide shares my top picks for keeping your Bermuda looking its best, along with tips to help you choose the right one for your yard.
Product Overview / Quick Summary:
- Prodiamine 65 WDG: Best overall, long-lasting control.
- Dithiopyr 40 WSG: Excellent for crabgrass and early-season weeds.
- Dimension 2EW: Post and pre-emergent control of various weeds.
- Pendimethalin 3.3 EC: Budget-friendly option, good for broadleaf weeds.
- Corn Gluten Meal: Organic option, gentle on the environment.
Top 5 Best Pre Emergent For Bermuda Reviews
1. Prodiamine 65 WDG
Prodiamine 65 WDG is a granular pre-emergent that provides excellent, long-lasting weed control. It’s a popular choice for professionals and homeowners alike due to its effectiveness and ease of use. Just mix with water and spray! I’ve found it to be particularly good at preventing crabgrass, goosegrass, and many broadleaf weeds.
Pros:
- ✅ Long-lasting weed control (up to 6 months)
- ✅ Effective against a wide range of weeds
- ✅ Relatively easy to apply
Cons:
- ❌ Can stain concrete if not rinsed promptly
- ❌ Requires precise application rates
- ❌ Not effective against existing weeds
Verdict: Prodiamine 65 WDG is an excellent choice for anyone looking for long-lasting, broad-spectrum weed control in their Bermuda lawn. It’s a great option if you’re serious about preventing weeds before they even start.
2. Dithiopyr 40 WSG
Dithiopyr 40 WSG is another highly effective pre-emergent, particularly known for its control of crabgrass. It offers some early post-emergent activity, meaning it can kill very young crabgrass seedlings. I appreciate its ability to control weeds even if I’m a little late with my application.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent crabgrass control
- ✅ Offers some early post-emergent activity
- ✅ Can be applied in spring or fall
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than other options
- ❌ May require multiple applications for season-long control
- ❌ Can injure some sensitive grasses if overapplied
Verdict: If crabgrass is your primary concern, Dithiopyr 40 WSG is an excellent choice. Its ability to control very young crabgrass gives you a little more leeway in your application timing.
3. Dimension 2EW
Dimension 2EW is a versatile pre-emergent that also offers post-emergent control of certain weeds. This means it can kill some small, existing weeds while also preventing new ones from sprouting. I’ve used this on my lawn and it’s great to see weeds disappear after application. It’s worth it.
Pros:
- ✅ Pre- and post-emergent control
- ✅ Effective against a broad range of weeds
- ✅ Relatively low odor
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than pre-emergent-only options
- ❌ Post-emergent activity is limited to very young weeds
- ❌ May require multiple applications
Verdict: Dimension 2EW is a good choice if you want a pre-emergent that also offers some post-emergent control. It’s particularly useful if you’re not always able to apply your pre-emergent at the perfect time.
4. Pendimethalin 3.3 EC
Pendimethalin 3.3 EC is a budget-friendly pre-emergent that provides good control of many common weeds, especially broadleaf weeds. It’s a good option if you’re looking for an effective pre-emergent without breaking the bank. I like to recommend this to people who have large lawns.
Pros:
- ✅ Cost-effective
- ✅ Good control of broadleaf weeds
- ✅ Widely available
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as effective against certain grassy weeds
- ❌ Can stain concrete and clothing
- ❌ Requires careful application to avoid injury to desirable plants
Verdict: Pendimethalin 3.3 EC is a solid choice for budget-conscious homeowners who need to control broadleaf weeds in their Bermuda lawns. Just be careful to avoid staining.
5. Corn Gluten Meal
Corn Gluten Meal is a natural, organic pre-emergent herbicide. It works by inhibiting root formation in germinating weed seeds. It’s a great option for those who prefer a more environmentally friendly approach to weed control. I’ve found it to be less effective than synthetic herbicides, but it’s a good choice for those concerned about chemicals.
Pros:
- ✅ Organic and natural
- ✅ Safe for pets and children
- ✅ Can also act as a fertilizer
Cons:
- ❌ Less effective than synthetic herbicides
- ❌ Requires higher application rates
- ❌ Can be more expensive than synthetic options
Verdict: Corn Gluten Meal is a good choice for those who want a natural, organic pre-emergent. It’s less effective than synthetic herbicides, so it may require more frequent applications and a higher application rate. Best for those who are dedicated to organic lawn care.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right pre-emergent for your Bermuda lawn depends on several factors, including the types of weeds you’re trying to control, your budget, and your personal preferences. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:
- Identify your weeds: Different pre-emergents are more effective against certain weeds than others. If you know which weeds you’re dealing with, you can choose a product that is specifically designed to control them.
- Consider your budget: Pre-emergents vary in price. Pendimethalin 3.3 EC and other generic formulations are often the most affordable options, while more specialized products like Dithiopyr 40 WSG can be more expensive.
- Think about your application timing: Most pre-emergents need to be applied before weed seeds germinate. This is typically in the spring, before the soil temperature reaches 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Some pre-emergents can also be applied in the fall to control winter weeds.
- Read the label carefully: Always read and follow the label instructions carefully. This will help you to apply the pre-emergent safely and effectively. Pay attention to application rates, safety precautions, and any restrictions on use.
- Consider the environment: If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of synthetic herbicides, consider using a natural pre-emergent like corn gluten meal.
- Granular vs. Liquid: Granular pre-emergents are easy to spread with a fertilizer spreader. Liquid pre-emergents require mixing and spraying, but may offer more uniform coverage.
FAQs
Q: When is the best time to apply pre-emergent to my Bermuda lawn?
A: The best time to apply pre-emergent is in the spring, before soil temperatures reach 55 degrees Fahrenheit. This is typically when weed seeds start to germinate. You can also apply pre-emergent in the fall to control winter weeds.
Q: How much pre-emergent should I apply?
A: Always follow the label instructions carefully. Application rates vary depending on the product and the type of weeds you’re trying to control. Over-application can damage your lawn, while under-application may not provide adequate weed control.
Q: Can I apply pre-emergent at the same time as fertilizer?
A: Yes, you can often apply pre-emergent at the same time as fertilizer. However, it’s important to choose a fertilizer that is compatible with the pre-emergent. Some pre-emergents can interfere with the uptake of certain nutrients, so it’s best to check the label instructions for both products.
Q: Is pre-emergent safe for pets and children?
A: Most pre-emergents are safe for pets and children once they have been applied and allowed to dry. However, it’s always a good idea to keep pets and children off the lawn until the product has dried completely. Natural pre-emergents like corn gluten meal are generally considered to be safer than synthetic herbicides.
Conclusion
Keeping your Bermuda lawn weed-free requires a strategic approach, and pre-emergent herbicides are an essential tool in that strategy. By understanding the different types of pre-emergents available and choosing the right one for your needs, you can prevent weeds from sprouting and keep your lawn looking its best all season long. Remember to always read and follow the label instructions carefully and consider the environmental impact of your choices.
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