Maintaining a healthy Bermuda grass lawn requires effective weed control, starting with the right pre emergent herbicide to prevent unwanted weeds before they germinate. This article reviews top pre emergent products designed to protect Bermuda grass from both grassy and broadleaf weeds, ensuring your lawn stays lush and weed-free throughout the growing season.
| Product | Brand | Target Weeds | Application Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prodiamine 65 WDG 5lbs Pre-emergent | Quali-Pro | Crabgrass, Chickweed, Goosegrass, Barnyardgrass | Established Turf, Lawns, Sod Nurseries |
| Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts | Scotts | Crabgrass, Poa annua, Henbit, Chickweed | Lawns – Seasonal Pre-Emergent |
| Syngenta Barricade 4FL Herbicide | Syngenta | Crabgrass, Chickweed, Oxalis, Goosegrass | Lawns, Turf Grass, Ornamentals |
| Liquid Harvest Mesotrione Concentrate | Liquid Harvest | Crabgrass, Chickweed, Clover, Dandelion | Various Turfgrasses (Avoid Bermuda for active stages) |
| Atticus Torocity Herbicide 8oz | Atticus | Crabgrass, Clover, Ground Ivy, Oxalis, Dandelion | Lawns and Turf – Pre & Post Emergent |
Prodiamine 65 WDG 5lbs Pre-emergent Grass Broadleaf Weeds
Prodiamine 65 WDG by Quali-Pro is a well-established pre emergent herbicide effective in preventing a wide range of grassy and broadleaf weeds in established turfgrasses, including Bermuda grass. It targets weeds such as crabgrass, chickweed, goosegrass, and barnyardgrass, helping to maintain a weed-free lawn.
This product is suitable for use in lawns, sod nurseries, container plants, and ornamentals. It prevents weed seeds from germinating by forming a chemical barrier in the soil. For best results, application should occur before weed seeds begin to sprout. It is not recommended for golf course putting greens.
Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts Crabgrass Preventer
Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts is a pre emergent herbicide designed to stop crabgrass and other grassy weeds before they start. It offers season-long protection when applied in early spring and can also be applied in fall to prevent winter weeds like Poa annua, henbit, and chickweed.
This product combines pre emergent weed control with turf nourishment, providing a dual benefit to your Bermuda grass lawn. The formula is easy to apply and covers up to 5,000 square feet, making it practical for medium-sized lawns.
Syngenta Barricade 4FL Long Lasting Pre-Emergent Weed Control
Syngenta’s Barricade 4FL is a long-lasting pre-emergent herbicide that controls the development of over 30 species of turf weeds by preventing seed germination. It’s effective against weeds like crabgrass, chickweed, oxalis, goosegrass, and Poa annua.
Best applied when soil temperatures are optimal (below 55°F in spring or below 50°F in fall), Barricade offers season-long weed prevention with a single application. It suits residential turf, landscape ornamentals, and trees, making it versatile for various garden and lawn settings.
Liquid Harvest Mesotrione Concentrate Herbicide
Liquid Harvest Mesotrione is a concentrated herbicide that offers both pre and post-emergent control of a wide variety of broadleaf and grassy weeds, including carpetweed, barnyardgrass, chickweed, clover, and dandelion.
Mesotrione works through quick absorption, but full weed death may take 2-3 weeks. Note that it is not recommended for use on actively growing Bermuda grass, but can be used on dormant Bermuda grass to eliminate weeds. Be attentive to timing and avoid use on certain turf types for safety.
Atticus Torocity Herbicide for Pre and Post Emergent Weed Control
Atticus Torocity Herbicide contains 40% mesotrione, the same active ingredient as leading brands, delivering effective both pre and post-emergent weed control. This flexibility allows treatment of existing weeds while preventing new ones from sprouting.
It controls a broad spectrum of weeds such as crabgrass, clover, ground ivy, oxalis, and dandelion. Torocity is ideal for users seeking a product that widens the application window, offering more convenience in lawn maintenance.
Buying Guide for Best Pre Emergent Products for Bermuda Grass
Choosing the right pre emergent for Bermuda grass depends on several key factors to ensure effectiveness and turf safety.
1. Target Weed Spectrum
Identify the major weed types in your lawn area. Products like Prodiamine and Syngenta Barricade offer broad-spectrum control against both grassy and broadleaf weeds, while some mesotrione-based products are better focused on broadleaf species. Select a product that addresses the specific weed pressure you face.
2. Bermuda Grass Compatibility
Not all herbicides are safe for active Bermuda grass. Some mesotrione-based options should only be used on dormant Bermuda to avoid turf damage. Check product labels carefully to ensure compatibility before application.
3. Application Timing
Pre emergent herbicides need to be applied at the correct time, typically when soil temperatures reach 50-55°F, to prevent weed seed germination. Some products allow for fall application to control winter annuals, while others focus on spring weed control. Choose based on your seasonal weeds and climate.
4. Duration of Control
Consider how long the product provides weed control. Syngenta Barricade, for example, offers long-lasting, season-long prevention with a single application, reducing the need for reapplication. This can save time and labor.
5. Ease of Use and Coverage
Look for products that match your lawn size and application preferences. Granular formulations like Scotts WeedEx and Prodiamine are easy to spread evenly, while liquid concentrates may require more precise mixing but allow for custom dosing.
6. Environmental and Safety Considerations
Always review product safety, including approved uses, environmental impact, and protective equipment needed. Following label instructions ensures safe and effective application.
7. Additional Benefits
Some combinations include fertilizer or post-emergent activity, providing extra value. For example, Scotts Turf Builder Halts incorporates lawn food, enhancing lawn health alongside weed control.