Weeds are a common nuisance for property owners, but with the right strategies, you can keep them off your lawn in Iowa. A combination of pre-emergent and post-emergent weed control treatments is the most effective way to tackle these pesky invaders. Pre-emergents work by creating a barrier that prevents weeds from sprouting so these weeds don't ever become a nuisance on your lawn. If your turf is already filled with these nutrient-stealing plants, post-emergent weed control treatments will target the existing weeds, killing them at the root. By using these treatments together, you can cover all stages of the weed growth cycle and ensure a weed-free lawn.

What is pre-emergent weed control and how does it work?

The best way to deal with weeds is to ensure they don't ever make an appearance on your lawn. That's what pre-emergent weed control treatments do! Pre-emergent weed control treatments are designed to stop weeds before they even have a chance to sprout. These treatments are applied before weeds germinate, so you can get ahead of their sprouting and target them before they cause issues.

Pre-emergents work by creating a barrier on the soil surface that prevents weed seeds from sprouting on your turf. This means the newly germinated weeds will not break through the soil and receive vital resources like sunlight, which fuels their growth. Without these resources, the weeds will not continue to grow and eventually die.

What is post-emergent weed control and how does it work?

Applying a post-emergent weed control treatment on a dandelion in Ankeny, IA.

If your lawn is already infested with unappealing and nutrient-stealing weeds, you need post-emergent weed control. These weed control treatments are designed to target and eliminate existing weeds on your lawn. They are applied several times throughout the growing season to continuously target pesky weeds popping up on your turf. Post-emergents work by targeting the weed's leaves and roots, killing them and preventing them from spreading. With this weed control treatment, you can combat the weeds taking nutrients from your grass and stop them from bringing down its health.

Why should you pair pre- and post-emergent weed control treatments?

Using both pre- and post-emergent weed control treatments is the most effective way to achieve a weed-free lawn. By using both treatments, you can cover all stages of the weed growth cycle and ensure that your lawn stays weed-free. If you only use pre-emergent treatments, there may still be existing weeds on your lawn that need to be addressed. They will only prevent new ones from growing but any weed on your turf will continue to grow.

On the other hand, using only post-emergent weed control is like playing catch-up with the weed population. That's because you will only target the existing weeds and any new weeds will continue to sprout. By using both treatments together, you can achieve a comprehensive weed control strategy that keeps your lawn healthy and beautiful.

Pair your weed control treatments with fertilizer treatments so your grass receives vital nutrients!

Call us today to sign up for our weed control service!

Weeds are persistent plants that can be tough to control. Fortunately, you've come to the right place for help! At ETCH Outdoor Living, we offer a weed control service that includes both pre- and post-emergent treatments, so you can enjoy a beautiful lawn with optimal protection from weeds. This service also includes lawn fertilization treatments to ensure that your grass has the nutrients it needs to thrive without competing with pesky weeds.

We offer our weed control service to residential and commercial properties, as well as HOAs, in Ankeny, Johnston, Urbandale, West Des Moines, Waukee, and throughout the surrounding areas in Iowa. Give us a call today at (515) 735-3338 to sign up for our weed control service!