Annual grassy weed control in warm-season turf

It’s almost time to start applying preemergence herbicides for annual grassy weed control in warm-season turf. Here’s some quick tips:

• Timing: Though we all try to wait as late as possible to ensure the longest control on the back side, research shows very little breakdown of preemergence herbicides with early applications on cool-soils
• Timing part 2: Apply early – Crabgrass starts to germinate when 4” soil temperatures average 55°F for five days, so preemergence herbicides must be applied prior to this
• Sequential applications are always the most effective way to maximize season long-control
• Calibrate and apply uniformly - preemergence herbicides usually don’t move once in the soil, so accurate and uniform applications are critical
• Water-in: preemergence herbicides should be watered in as soon after application as possible to move the active ingredient into the top 1/8 to ¼” of soil where it is active and safe from off-site movement
• Envu preemergence herbicide options:
  • Specticle^® has the longest residual control of crabgrass and goosegrass, and can be used in golf, lawns, and sport turf. Like most preemergence herbicides, verify that there is no winterkill in the warm-season turf prior to application. If there is a threat of winterkill, wait to apply or chose a different option
  • Ronstar^® is the goosegrass specialist but also effective on crabgrass. Ronstar is the only preemergence herbicide on the market that you can sprig into in case of winterkill so it can be used even if there is a winterkill threat

• More information – Always refer to the label for specific recommendations and contact your Envu area sales manager if you need assistance

	Solution sheet - Crabgrass
	Solution sheet - Goosegrass

Crabgrass germination can vary by a few weeks depending on late winter/spring temperatures. Preemergence herbicides like Specticle or Ronstar should be applied at least two weeks prior to expected emergence if possible (Envu)