What Grass Seed Can Grow With Pre-Emergent Herbicide?

Pre-emergents keep weeds from germinating in the lawn.

Applying pre-emergent herbicides in the spring prevents weed seeds from germinating in the lawn. The herbicides also prevent grass seed from germinating. By choosing the right herbicide and timing applications correctly, you can encourage healthy grass without putting up with weeds.

Types

No type of grass seed germinates in the presence of most pre-emergent herbicides. The only exception occurs with siduron-based herbicide, manufactured under the trade name Tupersan, which does not affect grass seed germination.

Time Frame

After applying a pre-emergent herbicide, the chemical remains in the soil for a period of time, about six months. If you attempt to grow new grass seed in the same area during this time, the herbicide prevents the seed from germinating.

Solution

Seed and apply pre-emergent chemical control at different times. Sow seed in the fall and apply pre-emergent herbicide the following spring without problems, suggests Jennifer Schultz Nelson of the University of Illinois Extension.

References

• University of Illinois Extension: Spring Lawn Care; Jennifer Schultz Nelson; March 2009
• University of California: Bermudagrass Management Guidelines; D. W. Cudney
• University of Minnesota Extension: Controlling Crabgrass
• Texas A&M University Extension: April Q&As; David Rodriguez; April 2010

Resources

• Colorado State University Extension: Preemergent Herbicides...; Oct. 2010