Pre-Emergent Herbicides

Pre-Emergent Herbicides

When used correctly, pre-emergent herbicides are the superior choice for controlling weeds in turf and lawns. They work by inhibiting the germination of weed seeds, creating a chemical barrier in the soil that prevents them from emerging as viable plants. 

Unlike post-emergent herbicides, which target existing weeds, pre-emergent herbicides require precise timing and application techniques to be effective. Explore pre-emergent herbicide options from Specialist Sales to keep your lawn healthy and looking immaculate. 

Why use pre-emergent herbicides in turf 

Pre-emergent herbicides are a vital component of turf management, particularly in Australia where diverse climates and environmental conditions can foster weed growth. These herbicides target weeds before they germinate and establish, which helps to maintain the health and appearance of turf grass.


When to apply pre-emergent herbicides 

Understanding the types of herbicide to use in turf and how to effectively apply them is essential for long-term weed control. Timing is a crucial component of this process. 

What are the best times to use pre-emergent herbicides? 

The best time to apply pre-emergent herbicides depends on the region and target weed species. 

Warm-season grasses 

In warmer areas like northern Australia, pre-emergent herbicides are best applied in late winter to early spring (August to October) before the onset of growing season. This timing will help prevent summer annual weeds like crabgrass and summer grass from establishing. 

Cool-season grasses

In southern Australia, where cool-season grasses are more common, pre-emergent applications are recommended in late summer to early autumn (February to March). This timing targets winter annual weeds like ryegrass and clover before they germinate. 

The best pre-emergent herbicides for turf 

There are several effective pre-emergent herbicides widely used in Australia for turf management. Here are some of the most popular active ingredients: 

  • Pendimethalin: This herbicide is effective against various grasses and broadleaf weeds. It’s commonly used in turf management and is known for preventing the germination of many troublesome weed species. You’ll find it in products including Battalia 435 Herbicide and Freehand Herbicide

Best practices for using pre-emergent herbicides 

The efficacy of pre-emergent herbicide use hinges on proper application. Here are some best practices to consider: 

    • Monitor soil temperature: Apply pre-emergent herbicides when soil temperatures reach between 10-12°C for warm-season grasses and 5-7°C for cool-season grasses. This temperature range should coincide with the onset of weed germination.
  • Consider moisture requirements: Following application, ensure adequate moisture is present to activate the herbicide in the soil. Light rainfall or irrigation is often needed to dissolve the herbicide and create a barrier for weed seeds. 
  • Understand seasonal impacts: Adjust your application schedule based on local climate conditions and the lifecycle of your target weed species. 

Shop our pre-emergent herbicides for turf now, and contact us for detailed product recommendations and advice.