I’m already getting questions as to which weed and feed product should be used on lawns this time of the year. My answer is always the same, “Warm season grasses are still dormant, so they don’t need fertilizing. Use a lawn weed control product to control winter weeds in your turf.” I personally prefer the liquid weed control products, as I find they stick to the leaves of the weeds much better.  I’m not saying that the granular products don’t work, they do.

The problem I have with granular weed control products is that they need to stick to the leaves of the weed for a little while in order for the chemical to be absorbed where it can do its job.  The winter weeds that I have growing are wild onion, with a narrow upright leaf, and hop clover and lawn burweed, both of which have very small leaves. Most of the time the granules hit those leaves and bounce right off. The liquid products wet the leaves and deliver the product whether the leaf is small, upright, or broad.

Here’s a few things to remember when applying these weed control products: (1) apply when the temperatures are above 55 degrees. The weeds will be actively growing and are more likely to absorb the chemicals. (2) Apply before the weeds begin to flower. Once the weeds start flowering, they will set seed for next year.  Applying sooner is better. (3) Be sure to read and follow the label directions so you will apply enough without applying too much.