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List of Herbicides
List of Herbicides. Every year, many homeowners have to deal with the frustration that comes when unsightly weeds litter otherwise beautifully maintained lawns. There are hundreds of types of weeds that have the potential to choke out healthy grass and flowers. Rather than spend hours on their hands and knees pulling weeds up by the roots, some...
Every year, many homeowners have to deal with the frustration that comes when unsightly weeds litter otherwise beautifully maintained lawns. There are hundreds of types of weeds that have the potential to choke out healthy grass and flowers. Rather than spend hours on their hands and knees pulling weeds up by the roots, some lawn keepers choose to banish these pests with weed-killing herbicides.
Pre-emergent Herbicide
A pre-emergent herbicide is applied directly to the soil once the internal soil temperature reaches a temperature of at least 50 degrees F for several consecutive days, which usually occurs in the early spring. This is the time when the first weeds, such as crabgrass, begin to germinate. The pre-emergent herbicide acts as a barrier between newly-sprouting weeds and the surface of the ground, forcing them to die upon contact. If you aerate the ground each year, it is important to do this before applying the herbicide, as aeration creates holes in the barrier and nullifies much of the herbicide's purpose.
Post-emergent Herbicide
A post-emergent herbicide can be used if you've missed the window for using a pre-emergent herbicide, or are dealing with new weeds that have already begun to sprout. You can also choose to use a post-emergent herbicide if the pre-emergent option was not as effective as it should have been or if you have an annual weed system with deep roots. Post-emergent herbicides come in liquid and granular forms, though the latter option must be activated using a sprinkler system or frequent watering. If choosing a post-emergent herbicide, multiple applications may be needed throughout the season and possibly into the fall.
Organic Herbicides
For homeowners looking for a more environmentally friendly option than what is available in most lawn and garden stores, an organic herbicide may be a better option for killing stubborn weeds. Though they may not be as effective in many cases, they are undoubtedly a much more natural and healthy option than more abrasive chemicals. Corn gluten is a popular choice as a pre-emergent herbicide, though it has a tendency to keep good plants from germinating as well. Alternatively, horticultural vinegar can be used as a post-emergent herbicide to kill newly-sprouting plants. Apply the vinegar directly to the base of the plant after tearing off the top.
