Weed and feed is a combination lawn care product that combines fertilizer and weed killer. The weed killer in these products acts as a barrier against new weeds from sprouting while the fertilizer promotes thicker grass growth for improved health and thickness.
These products come in both granular and liquid forms and can be applied using a spreader. They work best on cool-season grasses in spring and fall.
What is it?
Weed and feed products are popular lawn care solutions that combine an herbicide and fertilizer in one application, designed to kill broadleaf weeds like dandelions while giving your grass an extra boost. Most weed and feed products are designed for use on cool-season grasses; before applying a product of this nature to ensure that its herbicide will be effective against them.
Feed components of weed and feed products generally consist of nitrogen, phosphorous and/or potassium mixed into quick-release forms to promote faster grass growth.
Pre-emergent herbicides provide the cornerstone of most weed and feed products for effective weed control, stopping weed seeds from germinating in the first place. Pre-emergent herbicides work best when applied early spring before any signs of sprouting have appeared.
How do I use it?
Weed and feed is an all-in-one lawn care product, combining fertilizer with pre-emergent herbicide. You can purchase either in liquid form, depending on your preference and lawn type.
Before purchasing any weed and feed product, it is essential that you read and strictly abide by its instructions. This will ensure the product works effectively to kill weeds while only using what is recommended on its label and at the appropriate time of year.
After applying weed and feed, it is generally advised to wait three days before mowing the lawn again in order to allow time for the chemical to settle into the soil, creating a barrier and killing emerging weeds as they arise. When handling lawn chemicals it is advisable to wear protective gloves and long pants; any excess chemical should also be brushed away with a broom or blower in order not to harm surrounding plants.
When is the best time to use it?
When and how often to apply weed and feed depends on the type of lawn and location you reside. Pre-emergent weed and feed often contains an herbicide to stop new weeds from emerging as well as fertilizers to keep grass greener for longer. Proper application will yield maximum benefits;
Pre-emergent weed and feed applications must be applied before any weeds emerge, typically early spring. Post-emergent products contain herbicides which kill existing weeds rather than prevent future ones from growing.
Before applying weed and feed, mow your lawn down to its regular height and use a spreader to ensure even coverage. Wait 24 hours after watering treated areas so the fertilizers have time to work; also read labels carefully when allowing pets back onto treated lawns post treatment.
What are the risks?
One of the main challenges associated with weed and feed applications is incorrect application by people, usually because product instructions do not account for your specific lawn’s needs. Therefore, it is vitally important that consumers follow any recommendations listed on product labels or consult a lawn care expert regarding any chemical solutions being applied before using them on your yard.
Applying weed and feed products often involves spraying an entire lawn at once, which means that desirable perennials or other plants may come under attack from both herbicide and fertilizer; this may prove particularly damaging when dealing with blooming flowers such as coneflowers and sedum that have large leaves that need tending.
Repeated applications of weed and feed products may harm the health of your trees, as their roots absorb some of these chemicals through soil absorption, disrupting natural equilibrium in your yard. Furthermore, high temperature application increases this risk significantly.
