Spring has sprung and with it a lot of weeds! Excessive rain throughout most of the U.S. has left behind overgrowth of weeds in turf, beds and more. Lower temperatures and frequent rain events made it difficult to fit in a pre-emergent herbicide application this year. So what’s the right post-emergent herbicide for the most common spring weeds? We have your answer.

First, let’s set some definitions. Post-emergent herbicides are used if the weed has penetrated the soil surface (you can see them). To work they must be applied while the plant is actively growing, so late spring to early summer. There are two types of post-emergent herbicides: selective and non-selective. Selective herbicides target specific weed types, leaving the desirable turf or plant unharmed, while non-selective herbicides kill all plant types.

Targeting Weeds with Selective Herbicides

There are several selective herbicides that control broadleaf and grassy weeds, but no matter which formulation you use it is imperative to READ THE LABEL before application. Here are a few recommendations for common spring weeds.

Chickweed – Use PBI Gordon Speedzone (Red or Southern) or Surge

Crabgrass (Poa Annua) – Use PBI Gordon Q4 or Ornamec 170

Dandelions – Use PBI Gordon Q4 or Speedzone (Red or Southern)

White Clover – Use PBI Gordon Speedzone or TZone

Non-Selective Herbicides

As we mentioned, non-selective herbicides aren’t picky – they will eliminate just about any plant it contacts. So the product should be used where it can’t harm desirable plants, such as on sidewalks or bare ground. The most common non-selective herbicide is Glyphosate (RoundUp), and it is actually the most commonly used herbicide in the world. But what happens when you use something excessively? Resistance. Over the years plants have built up a tolerance to Glyphosate, reducing the herbicide’s effectiveness. Which is why Horizon recommends Cheetah Pro with Glufosinate. Because Cheetah Pro is a contact herbicide, it works much more quickly showing results in 24-48 hours.

Always maybe add that anytime you spray a systemic herbicide, you should use a water conditioner to ensure that the chemical goes into solution, not suspension. Whatever type of herbicide you choose, you can find it at your local Horizon Distributors.