Using Weedkiller on New Grass

There is always the possibility that weeds may grow in new grass Unfortunately, these weeds are more difficult to get rid of because the methods of extermination used on established lawns may affect new grass. Maintenance requirements vary depending on climate and location, but properly timed mowing and irrigation will help keep weeds under control until the new grass has matured.

Types

Weed killers primarily consist of chemicals known as herbicides that are known either as selective or nonselective. Nonselective herbicides will eliminate all plant life and should not be used near new lawns. Selective herbicides can be used to target specific types of weeds however, they can still affect new grass.

Characteristics

New lawns may produce weeds even before the new grass appears. However, if herbicides are used on new lawns before new grass has fully matured, the grass may be affected by the chemicals. Depending on the climate, you should mow your new grass 3 to 4 times before using harsh chemicals.

Time Frame

Weed killer should not be used on new grass for the first three months. If the planter must utilize associated herbicides before this time frame, less than the recommended dosage is all that is required. A heavy concentration of weed killer may burn or dry out the new grass. If possible, waiting to 4 to 5 months will eliminate this risk.

Considerations

If weeds appear abundant among new grass and a weed killer is required before specified time frames, choose an herbicide that targets that specific type of weed. The longer a weed is alive, the more difficult it will be to exterminate later. An alternative to utilizing herbicides too early is to manually hand pick and remove the weeds.