How to Use Pre-Emergent & Grass Seed
Grass lawns create an attractive groundcover in many landscapes. Planting grass seed is an affordable method for establishing new lawns. Weeds often create a problem for newly emerging grass seeds when they compete for water, light and soil nutrients. One method to reduce weeds in new grass is to treat the planting site with a pre-emergent herbicide before planting the seed. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Clear the site of all vegetation. Remove existing weeds before they have a chance to mature and produce seeds. Pull out entire plants, including root systems. Rake the uppermost soil to expose newly emerging weeds hiding just below the surface. Avoid disturbing the lower layers of the topsoil where weed seeds lay in wait for ideal growing conditions. Leave these seeds where they are, too deep to germinate and harm your lawn.
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Select a pre-emergent herbicide formulated for use with grass seed and lawns. Certain types of herbicides work by killing all types of vegetation. Different types, known as selective herbicides, work only on certain plants, while having no effect on others. Either choose a selective herbicide that does not harm grass, or be prepared to delay seed planting until the herbicide is no longer active. Apply the herbicide in late winter or early spring, before the expected date for weed germination in your area. Distribute the pre-emergent herbicide over the entire planting site according to package instructions.
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Allow adequate time for your herbicide to kill the weed seeds. Consult the package instructions included with your herbicide to determine the proper planting time after application. Avoid planting grass seeds over non-selective types of herbicide until the chemical is no longer active. Rake the soil's surface to create an even bed for planting your grass seed. Apply your seed with a broadcaster to create an even distribution. Rake or roll the new seed bed to encourage contact between the seeds and the soil. Sprinkle a fine layer of mulch over the top of your seeds to assist in moisture retention. Water your new lawn thoroughly.
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References
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