Crabgrass is a type of lawn weed common enough to earn its own type of lawn care products known as crabgrass preventers. This tricky plant frequently slips underneath lawn mowers and spreads its seeds liberally to take over your yard. Therefore, the best way to remove and prevent crabgrass is by using one of a variety of herbicidal crabgrass preventers.
Here is a short guide to the most common types of crabgrass preventers and how they work:
Liquid & granular
For large lawns, liquid preventers are an efficient way to prevent and kill crabgrass. It’s also helpful for applying to lawn edges and cracks in sidewalks, patios and driveways.
Granular formulas are a better choice for smaller lawns. However, they can take longer to work than liquid versions due to a slower absorption rate.
Organic
Some organic options for killing crabgrass include corn gluten and vinegar. While these methods take much longer than synthetic products, you won’t have to worry about the effects of harsh chemicals on your yard. If you don’t mind synthetic herbicides, there are plenty of options available from your local garden center or lawn care professionals.
Selective & non-selective
Selective herbicide is a product containing chemicals that target specific weeds rather than affecting everything they touch. There are selective herbicides available for tackling many lawn weeds, so make sure you choose a formula specifically meant for treating crabgrass.
Non-selective herbicides, however, do not discriminate from one plant to another. This means they can kill multiple types of weeds plaguing your lawn, but they might also harm the grass. The key to using non-selective herbicides is to apply them exactly as directed to get rid of crabgrass but avoid unwanted damage.
Knowing when to apply
No matter your chosen method of crabgrass control, timing is everything. The best time to apply a preventative crabgrass treatment is early spring, right as the crabgrass seeds start to germinate.
However, if you have existing crabgrass, use a post-emergent crabgrass killer. These products are specially formulated to manage grassy weeds that are already fully grown.
Crabgrass can be frustrating for homeowners with lawns, but it’s not impossible to beat. The more you know about your preventative options, the better equipped you’ll be to protect and treat your lawn.
About the Author
Debbie Caldwell
When you first meet Debbie Harris-Caldwell, you are immediately drawn to her charming Welsh accent and the twinkle in her eye. The well-traveled transplant from Wales is quick to set you at ease and time spent with her promises to be time well spent.
Debbie has been a real estate agent for 40 years and takes great pride in her customer service skills. "I make myself available to my customers when they need me, whether it's on a Sunday Evening or after their long day at work. I make my schedule fit theirs. I also keep my customers updated on everything happening with their listings or purchase, I am their conduit for information." She has built a business following her key principles of clear communication, attention to detail, client advocacy, and comprehensive knowledge of the area. Debbie comes to every new transaction with positive energy, determination, a strong understanding of the currents driving the market, and the expertise that comes from a lifetime of experience. She knows the importance of marketing and whether a home is for sale for $200,000 or for $2 million, she always has professional photography done and creates a listing presentation that best shows off her customer's home.