Maintaining a lush Bermuda grass lawn free of weeds requires effective pre-emergent herbicides designed to prevent weed growth before it begins. This guide reviews some of the best pre-emergent products available for controlling common grassy and broadleaf weeds in Bermuda grass. Below is a summary table featuring key details of the selected pre-emergent herbicides.
| Product | Brand | Coverage | Weed Target | Application Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prodiamine 65 WDG 5lbs Pre-emergent | Quali-Pro | Varies by application | Grass & Broadleaf Weeds (Crabgrass, Poa annua, etc.) | Granular |
| Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts | Scotts | 5,000 sq. ft. | Crabgrass, winter weeds | Granular |
| Syngenta Barricade 4FL Herbicide | Syngenta | Variable liquid application | 30+ broadleaf and grassy weeds | Liquid concentrate |
| Liquid Harvest Mesotrione Concentrate | Liquid Harvest | Varies with dilution | 46 broadleaf & grasses (includes crabgrass, clover) | Liquid concentrate |
| Atticus Torocity Herbicide | Atticus | Varies with dilution | Broadleaf and grassy weeds including crabgrass, clover | Liquid concentrate |
Prodiamine 65 WDG Pre-Emergent for Grass and Broadleaf Weeds
Quali-Pro’s Prodiamine 65 WDG offers robust control of a wide range of grassy and broadleaf weeds including crabgrass, annual bluegrass, foxtails, chickweed, and more. It is specially formulated for use in established turf grasses such as Bermuda grass and excludes golf course putting greens.
The granular formulation allows flexible application for lawns, sod nurseries, landscape ornamentals, and perennials. It is effective on several problematic weeds by preventing their seed germination. Users should refer to the product label for pests covered and usage instructions to ensure safe and optimal results.
Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts Crabgrass Preventer
Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts is a granular pre-emergent herbicide designed to control crabgrass and other grassy weeds all season long. It is ideal for early spring application to prevent crabgrass and can also be applied in the fall to combat winter weeds like henbit and chickweed.
This product provides a reliable barrier stopping crabgrass before it starts to grow, which protects Bermuda grass lawns from early weed invasion. The coverage is designed for an area of 5,000 square feet, making it suitable for medium-sized yards.
Syngenta Barricade 4FL Herbicide for Broadleaf and Turf Weed Prevention
Syngenta’s Barricade 4FL is a liquid pre-emergent herbicide that controls the development of over 30 species of turf weeds including crabgrass, chickweed, goosegrass, and Poa annua. It works best when applied before soil temperatures reach 55°F in spring or after they drop below 50°F in fall.
This herbicide offers long-lasting residual control, often protecting lawns throughout the growing season with a single timely application. Suitable for residential turf and landscape ornamentals, it is versatile for users seeking broad-spectrum pre-emergent weed control.
Liquid Harvest Mesotrione Concentrate Pre and Post-Emergent Weed Killer
Liquid Harvest Mesotrione provides both pre- and post-emergent control of numerous broadleaf and grassy weeds. It targets 46 species including barnyard grass, crabgrass, clover, and dandelion, making it flexible for various turf systems.
Mesotrione acts quickly upon application but may take several weeks for full effect. Activation requires watering if rainfall is insufficient within 10 days. It is safe for many turf types, including dormant Bermuda grass, but users should avoid applying to certain sensitive grasses.
Atticus Torocity Herbicide for Selective Pre and Post Emergent Weed Control
Atticus Torocity features 40% mesotrione, sharing the active ingredient with top brands like Tenacity. It offers a broad-spectrum weed control, tackling crabgrass, clover, oxalis, dandelion, and other weeds using a dual pre- and post-emergent approach.
The flexible timing of application widens the treatment window and allows users to both prevent new weeds and eliminate existing ones. This product suits both newly seeded and established Bermuda grass lawns.
Buying Guide for Pre-Emergent Products for Bermuda Grass
Choosing the right pre-emergent herbicide for Bermuda grass involves considering multiple factors to ensure effective weed control without harming your turf:
1. Target Weed Spectrum
Identify the prevalent weed species in your lawn. Some products focus on crabgrass and grassy weeds, while others cover broadleaf weeds like clover, chickweed, and dandelion. Broad-spectrum options provide versatile control but verify compatibility with Bermuda grass.
2. Application Timing and Frequency
Most pre-emergents perform best when applied before weed seeds germinate, typically in early spring or fall depending on the weed and climate. Some product formulas allow post-emergent applications for existing weeds, offering more flexibility.
3. Formulation Type
Granular formulations are easy to spread and suitable for many lawn types, while liquid concentrates offer precise control and rapid absorption but require mixing and spraying equipment. Choose based on convenience, coverage area, and personal preference.
4. Turfgrass Safety and Compatibility
Ensure the herbicide is safe for Bermuda grass. Some products may restrict use on specific turf types. Products like mesotrione are safe on dormant Bermuda grass but may harm other grass species.
5. Longevity and Residual Control
Look for products offering season-long control with a single application to reduce labor and minimize chemical use. Residual duration impacts how often reapplication may be necessary.
6. Environmental and Application Restrictions
Check product labels for restrictions related to weather conditions, runoff prevention, and turf use cases such as golf courses or ornamentals. Proper application ensures environmental safety and effective control.
By balancing these considerations, you can select a pre-emergent weed control product that optimizes your Bermuda grass lawn’s health and appearance throughout the growing season.