The determining factor on whether a pre-emergent will be effective comes down to one thing: soil temperature. That's what we're up against, and that's what we're racing against every spring.
All weeds germinate at different soil temperatures, which means timing your pre-emergent application correctly is critical for success. Miss the window, and you'll be fighting weeds all season long.
Crabgrass: A Weed You Don't Want to Fight
Right now, the primary concern for North Texas lawns is summer weeds like crabgrass. If you've ever dealt with a crabgrass infestation, you know it's one of those weeds you don't want to handle after it emerges. Once crabgrass takes hold, it spreads aggressively and is extremely difficult to control without damaging your turf.
Crabgrass seeds don't fully germinate until soil temperatures reach 70 to 75 degrees consistently. For homeowners in Midlothian and Prosper, this typically happens in late spring, but the exact timing varies year to year based on weather patterns.
The Current Window of Opportunity
The average soil temperature in the DFW area right now is around 60 degrees. That means we're still in the window of opportunity—there's still time to get pre-emergent down and kill those weed seeds before they germinate.
This is good news, but it won't last forever. Every day, soil temperatures are climbing. As we move through spring, that window closes quickly.
And crabgrass isn't the only concern. Many other summer weeds don't germinate until soil temperatures reach 75 degrees or higher, so a properly timed pre-emergent application protects against multiple weed varieties throughout the season.
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late
By the end of the month, it will likely be too late for pre-emergent to be effective against early-germinating weeds like crabgrass. Once soil temperatures cross that 70-75 degree threshold and seeds begin germinating, pre-emergent can't help you. At that point, you'll be dealing with weeds for the rest of the year.
For homeowners in Prosper, Waxahachie, and throughout the DFW metroplex, the message is simple: act now. Pre-emergent is only effective when applied before germination. There's no going back once weeds start sprouting.
Monitor and Act
If you're applying pre-emergent yourself, keep an eye on soil temperature reports for your area. Many local weather services and agricultural extensions provide this data. When you see temperatures approaching that 65-70 degree range, it's time to act immediately.
Or better yet, work with a lawn care professional who monitors these conditions and times applications for maximum effectiveness.
Watch the video below to learn more about soil temperatures and pre-emergent timing for North Texas lawns.
For professional fertilization and weed control in Midlothian and Prosper, contact Vista Lawn and Pest.
