Chemical Weed Killers Tips

Choosing

• When choosing an herbicide, you must first ask yourself whether you want a selective or non-selective herbicide. Selective herbicides are designed to kill a particular weed. Contrarily, non-selective herbicides will kill anything they come in contact with, including desirable plants and grasses. Non-selective herbicides are best if you do not know what weeds are present and simply want to get rid of everything and replant. The second question is whether you want a pre-emergent herbicide or post-emergent herbicide. Pre-emergent herbicides are designed to be applied before the weed rises from the soil, whereas post-emergent herbicides are designed to be applied after the weed rises.

Application

• Before applying an herbicide, double-check to make sure it's safe for your lawn. Read the instructions and apply the herbicide only at the recommended time of year and rate. Doing otherwise could damage plants, grasses and even soil. Herbicides are generally applied using a low- or high-pressure sprayer. If possible, purchase a sprayer specifically designed for herbicide application. Once used, avoid using the sprayer for other tasks, such as washing your roof, as some herbicide residue is likely to remain in the sprayer.

Warnings

• In some states, such as Ohio, the state Environmental Protection Agency must be notified before application of herbicides in or near bodies of water. Check with your state before applying any herbicide to make sure you are in compliance with laws. Moreover, herbicides contain toxins that can be harmful to wild animals, pets and people if used incorrectly. Be sure to read and follow the warnings and instructions on the package.

Alternatives

• Herbicides should be used as a last resort, particularly in home gardens. Mechanical and cultural methods exist as alternatives to herbicide use. The goal behind cultural methods is to keep your lawn or garden healthy, which will help prevent weed invasion. This is done through proper fertilization, mulching, watering and mowing. Depending on the extent of the invasion, mechanical methods may include removing weeds by hand, using a garden hoe or rototiller.