It may seem like one minute your lawn is pristine and green with no sign of weeds and then, surprise! But like most things, weeds like crabgrass don’t just appear overnight. You also can’t expect to get rid of it that quickly either. Here are some of the best ways to prevent crabgrass.

What is Crabgrass

First, you have to know what you’re dealing with. Crabgrass is an annual weed, but it keeps growing all spring through fall. It only stops growing once you kill it or the weather turns cold. Even if you think it’s gone, it may have left seeds around that won’t germinate until next season—starting its vicious cycle all over again.

Crabgrass seeds germinate when the soil is between 50 to 75 degrees. Of course, this may vary throughout your yard depending on sun exposure, shading, and moisture levels. This can also help when trying to get rid of the weed.

How to Kill Crabgrass

The longer you wait to kill crabgrass, the more chances it has to germinate, and the worse your problem will be next year. If nothing is done during the growing season, start planning in the winter for an early start to control the weed. Depending on the season, here are some steps you want to take:

• Keep your lawn healthy throughout the year. This is the easiest way to help prevent all weeds.
• Prevent crabgrass seeds from spreading in warmer months.
• Kill existing crabgrass and remove dead weeds.
• Replant bare lawn spots with new grass seed to prevent weeds from taking over this area.
• Apply a crabgrass preventer at the appropriate times.
• Mow your grass at a higher range to shade the lawn, and remove the clippings. Right before mowing, rake the lawn to disturb the crabgrass—making it stand up above the grass.
• Don’t apply too much fertilizer or overwater.

How to Prevent Crabgrass

Once you’ve dealt with this weed, do yourself a favor and work to prevent it from coming back. One of the best ways to do this is with a pre-emergent herbicide. Timing is important, so make sure you follow the directions for the product you intend to use.

For more help dealing with this prolific weed, contact the lawn specialists at Cardinal Lawns. From weed prevention to mowing techniques, you’ll get expert advice for getting your lawn as healthy as possible.