Pre-emergent

Pre-emergent and Grub Control Timing

Written by: Ben Sims

|

|

Time to read 2 min

Late July/August is a great time to give your lawn some extra care and set it up for success in the coming months. Here’s a guide to help you with pre-emergent application, grub prevention, and fertilisation to keep your lawn lush and healthy.

Preventing Weeds This Spring

Applying pre-emergent like Barricade and Spartan in August can effectively prevent weeds from germinating and taking over your lawn. (don’t apply if you are seeding or need areas to fill in)


Barricade and Spartan Pre-emergent: Apply to target weeds like summer grass and paspalum when soil temperatures are still warm (around 13°C). It creates a protective barrier in the soil.


Application Tips:


• Using a sprayer, ensure even coverage. Use 4L of water/100m2 and add your product on top. Spartan and Barricade are applied at 30ml/100m2.

Using 4L of water/100m2 will help you spray over the lawn twice to ensure you don’t miss any spots.


• Lightly water your lawn after application to activate the pre-emergent, but avoid overwatering.

Barricade: is a pre-emergent Ideal for larger yards. It offers great coverage and long-lasting weed prevention.

Application Rate: 30ml/100m².

Spartan: is a great pre-emergent if you need a smaller quantity. It’s just as effective and perfect for smaller lawns.

Application Rate: 30ml/100m².


Oxstar: This is a perfect pre-emergent for new turf and is also blended with fertiliser.

 Application Rate:3-4kg/100m2

Grub prevention

August is a critical time for grub prevention, particularly for targeting the larvae of the African black beetle. Here’s why it’s important to apply grub control products like Acelepryn now:


1. Egg Laying Season: African black beetles lay their eggs in lawns during August and September. These eggs hatch into grubs, which are the larvae that feed on the roots of your grass, potentially causing extensive damage.


2. Optimal Timing: Applying a product like Acelepryn during this period, before the eggs hatch or when the grubs are still small, is the most effective way to control these pests. Early application helps target the grubs before they start causing significant harm to your lawn.


3. Long-Lasting Protection: Acelepryn provides up to six months of protection. This means that a single application can effectively safeguard your lawn through the active period of the grubs, preventing them from maturing and causing damage.


4. Preventing Root Damage: Grubs feed on grass roots, weakening the turf and causing brown patches. Controlling the grubs early protects the root system, maintaining a healthy and lush lawn.


5. Simplifying Lawn Care: Preventing grub damage helps avoid the need for extensive repairs later, making overall lawn care more straightforward and less time-consuming.

After Pre-emergent and Grub Control Keep Your Lawn Healthy

Consider applying liquid fertiliser to promote active growth for the spring season. One of the best options is the Lawn Tips Mix , which provides essential nutrients to support your lawn during the warmer months.

This specially formulated mix includes organic products like Brilliance, Vitalise, and Nourish. It helps boost root and shoot growth, enhancing your lawn’s health and appearance.

Conclusion


Proper timing for pre-emergent and grub control is crucial for maintaining a healthy and vibrant lawn. Following the guidelines and applying the right products appropriately can effectively prevent weeds and grubs from taking over your lawn. This proactive approach not only enhances the appearance of your lawn but also reduces the need for more intensive treatments later. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in keeping your lawn lush, green, and free from pests.

Ben Sims

The Author: Ben Sims

Ben Sims is a passionate greenkeeper turned lawn care expert. With years of experience in greenkeeping, he's shifted his focus to helping homeowners achieve their dream lawns. Through his website and YouTube Channel, Lawn Tips, he shares practical advice, comprehensive lawn care plans, and high-quality lawn products to make lawn maintenance more straightforward and effective. 

Products Featured In This Blog