What Kind of Weed & Feed for Sod?

Types of Weed Killers in Weed & Feed

• The weed-killing properties of weed and feed products vary by manufacturer and types of weeds targeted. Weed killers may work on broadleaf weeds or weedy grasses. Some weed and feed products specifically target crabgrass in lawns. Knowing what type of weeds are growing in the sodded lawn, and reading product labels to make sure the weed and feed is appropriate for use on those weeds is critical. Some weed and feed products should not be used on certain grass species, so check the label to be sure the product will not harm the lawn.

Applying Weed and Feed

• Granular weed and feed killers are simple to apply using a drop or hand-held spreader. For larger lawns, a wheeled drop spreader applies an even coating of granular weed and feed. Spreader settings are listed on the weed and feed bag for most spreader brands. The amount of weed and feed to apply to the lawn varies widely from brand to brand, and depends on the type of weed killer and fertilizer to be applied. In general, granular weed and feed should be applied to moist grass. Watering the day before applying weed and feed should work well.

When to Apply

• Newly sodded lawns should be allowed to grow enough to be mowed three or four times before weed and feed is applied. Except for crabgrass killer, weed and feed that targets either broadleaf weeds or grassy weeds should be applied while weeds are actively growing. Weed and feed with crabgrass killer should be applied in early spring. Crabgrass killer is a pre-emergent product that keeps the crabgrass from germinating. This type of weed and feed also works on other types of early germinating, grassy weeds. It can also be applied in the fall to prevent cool-weather grassy weeds from growing.

Cautions and Warnings

• Check the label carefully for the timing of repeat applications; many weed and feed products should not be applied more than twice per year.
  Do not apply if rainfall is expected within 24 hours of application, and do not water for at least 48 hours after application. Keep children and pets off the newly treated area.
  Weed and feed products are best applied on windless days to avoid product drift onto desirable plants near the lawn. If product drifts onto sidewalks or driveways, sweep it back onto the lawn to keep it from contaminating other areas.