There are certain undesirable elements that you may be looking to get rid of or prevent from entering your yard, and weeds or intrusive grasses are among them. Luckily, there are a number of weed killer and grass killer products out there to assist here – how do you choose a productive, effective option that meets your needs and doesn’t kill unintended parts of your yard or garden?
At Logan Extermination, we’re here to assist with a wide range of lawn care services around Logan and nearby areas of Utah, including basic lawn maintenance solutions like weed prevention and more. Here are some basics on what weed killer and grass killer products do, plus how to choose the right one for your needs and some basic tips on proper product usage.
How Weed Killer and Grass Killer Products Work
When discussing these products, it’s important to differentiate between products that are exclusively weed killers and those that are meant for a broader array of herbs as well. Weed killers, also known as herbicides, are designed to specifically target and kill unwanted plants, while grass killers, also known as selective herbicides, are meant to eliminate specific types of grasses. Both types of products work by disrupting the normal growth processes of the targeted plants.
Within the weed killer realm, there are two types of product:
- Per-emergence weed killers: These products are applied before the weeds have emerged from the soil. They create a barrier that prevents weed seeds from germinating and growing.
- Post-emergence weed killers: These products are applied after the weeds have already emerged from the soil. They work by directly targeting and killing established weeds.
It’s important to note that with these specific weed killer products, grass varieties are not targeted. Even though you might consider certain longer or invasive grasses undesirable, weed killers are only meant to target specific weeds.
For those additional needs, that’s where grass killers or combination products come in. There are many different types of grass killers available, including selective and non-selective options. Selective grass killers target only specific types of grasses while leaving other plants unharmed. Non-selective products, on the other hand, will kill any plant they come into contact with, so caution must be used when applying these products.
Persistent Vs Non-Persistent
Within weed and grass killer products, another important quality to be aware of is known as persistence. This term speaks to the period of time in which compounds are active; non-persistent treatments are relatively short-lived (under 3 months in most cases), while persistent compounds will have a longer effect.
Persistent products are often preferred for long-term control and prevention of re-growth, but it’s important to note that they can also have negative effects on surrounding plants and the environment if not used carefully. Non-persistent treatments may require more frequent applications, but they offer more flexibility in terms of controlling weeds without causing harm to other plants or areas. It’s important to consider the specific needs of your lawn or garden when choosing between persistent and non-persistent weed and grass killer products. Some situations may call for a stronger, longer-lasting treatment, while others may benefit from a gentler approach.
Proper Application
No matter which of these products you’re utilizing, proper application is vital. Here are a few key factors to keep in mind:
- Ideal temperatures: In many cases, weed killer and grass killer products are best applied when the temperature is within a certain range (often around 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit, though this can vary by individual products and weed or grass types). Be sure to check the label for specific temperature guidelines.
- Time of day: In general, it’s best to apply these products in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler and there is less direct sunlight. This can help prevent the product from evaporating too quickly or getting diluted by rain.
- Spraying technique: When applying weed killer or grass killer, it’s important to spray evenly and thoroughly over the affected areas. Be sure to follow any specific instructions on the product label for proper spraying techniques.
- Safety precautions: It’s always important to read and follow all safety precautions listed on the product label. This may include wearing protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a mask. It’s also wise to keep children and pets away from the treated area until the product has dried completely.
At Logan Extermination, we’re here to help with weed prevention, grass removal and various other yard and lawn care services around Logan. Contact us today to learn more or get started!
