Principle #1: Pre-emergent herbicides are designed to control germinating weed seeds. As its name suggests, pre-emergent is targeted towards weeds that have not yet emerged from the soil.

When should I use pre-emergent?

Early spring and fall are the most effective times to apply pre-emergent herbicides. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide will prevent seeds from sprouting, but the most effective times to use it are in the spring and again in the fall.

Does pre-emergent really work?

The class of weed control products known as pre-emergents are highly effective herbicides if used properly. They are relatively simple to apply and can save a lot of headache later in the season if care is taken to apply them properly. Sometimes though, weeds will grow even after you’ve applied pre-emergents.