Why Pre-Emergent Is Your Best Weapon Against Crabgrass

May 4, 2026 | Lansing

Every spring, ArborLawn witnesses Michigan homeowners face the same frustrations: a lawn that looked decent heading into winter starts showing patches of coarse, spreading crabgrass by midsummer. The problem is that by the time you can see crabgrass, the opportunity to stop it has already passed. Winning the battle against crabgrass does not happen in summer; it happens in early spring, before the seeds ever get a chance to germinate.

Weeds are a common problem for gardeners and homeowners alike. There are many methods of weed control, but one of the most popular is a pre-emergent herbicide. This type of herbicide kills weeds before they even have a chance to grow! However, there are many myths about pre-emergent and spring weed control. ArborLawn is here to dispel some of these myths and give you the facts about your spring fertilization! Myth: Pre-Emergent Herbicides Kill All Weeds One of the most common myths about pre-emergent weed control is that it will prevent all weeds from growing. While pre-emergent herbicides can be effective at preventing certain types of weeds, they are not a panacea. There are many different types of weed seeds, and not all of them are susceptible to pre-emergent herbicides. Myth: You Can Apply Pre-Emergent at Any Time While weeds can be controlled throughout the year, pre-emergents only work early in the season. These solutions must be applied before weed seeds have a chance to germinate in the spring if you want them to be successful. Once weed seeds have germinated, pre-emergent herbicides will not be effective. Fact: Pre-Emergents Will Not Kill Your Grass Contrary to popular belief, pre-emergent herbicides will not kill your grass. Instead, they work by creating a barrier that prevents weed seeds from germinating. By treating your lawn early for weeds, you'll actually be promoting a healthier lawn and soil. That's because the grass won't be competing with weeds for nutrients and water. Fact: Pre-Emergents Do Not Last It's a common misconception that pre-emergent herbicides provide long-lasting weed control. In reality, most pre-emergents only last for 3-4 weeks before they start to break down. This is because they are designed to prevent weeds from germinating, not to kill existing weeds. Once the herbicide has degraded, newly germinated weeds will be able to take root. For this reason, it's important to reapply pre-emergent herbicides regularly.

Pre-Emergent Weed Control: Facts vs Myths

April 11, 2022 | Fertilization

Weeds are a common problem for homeowners and their lawn care routines. There are many weed control methods, but one of the most popular is a pre-emergent herbicide. This type of herbicide kills weeds before they even have a chance to grow! However, there are many myths about pre-emergent and spring weed control. ArborLawn is here to dispel some of these myths and give you the facts about your spring fertilization!