If you are applying a weed and feed product that is meant to kill actively growing weeds, wait 2 days after application before watering. If the product you’re using is a weed and feed product with “crabgrass preventer,” it can be watered in 12–24 hours after application. The reason for this is that these two products work very differently. Weed and feed designed to kill established weeds must be absorbed through the leaves of the plants, so you should wait 48 hours before watering it. On the other hand, weed and feed designed to prevent weeds from sprouting must enter the soil to kill seedlings underground. So, you can water soon after spreading a crabgrass preventer weed and feed.
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What Kind of Weed & Feed Should You Use?
Weed and feed products come in two main types—those meant to kill existing weeds and those meant to prevent new weeds from sprouting. Before choosing, ask yourself the following questions:
- Are you trying to kill existing weeds (such as clover and dandelions) in your yard?
- Are you trying to stop annual weeds (such as crabgrass) from sprouting?
The answers to these questions determine what kind of weed and feed you should use. This is important because the different varieties of weed and feed should be watered at different times after you’ve spread them on your lawn.
Weed & Feed with Post-Emergent Herbicide
Weed and feed products with labeling that states they will kill weeds growing in your yard typically contain post-emergent herbicide. These products are designed to kill broadleaf weeds such as dandelion, clover, and purslane. They won’t kill or stop invasive grasses like crabgrass.
- Most weed and feed products are designed to kill established weeds in your yard—these products contain post-emergent herbicide.
- Post-emergent herbicide kills established broadleaf weeds (dandelion, clover, etc.)
- Weed and feed with post-emergent herbicide often show dandelions and clover on the packaging.
- Choose this weed and feed if you want to kill established weeds in your yard.
If your yard is currently overrun with established non-grassy weeds, a weed and feed product with post-emergent herbicide is the best bet. This herbicide is designed to infiltrate weeds through their leaves before killing them. It’s a great way to wipe out clusters of weeds while the fertilizer gives your grass a growth spurt.
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Weed & Feed with Pre-Emergent Herbicide
If you’re using a weed and feed product advertised as a “crabgrass preventer,” then that product contains pre-emergent herbicide. Pre-emergent herbicide works by entering the soil, where it lingers for several weeks. During this time, any weed seeds that attempt to sprout are once they come in contact with the pre-emergent in the soil.
- Weed and feed products labeled as “crabgrass preventers” contain pre-emergent herbicide.
- Pre-emergent herbicide enters the soil and kills seeds as they sprout.
- Established weeds won’t be killed by pre-emergent—only new seedlings will be killed.
- Use this weed and feed with pre-emergent herbicide to stop weed invasions before they begin, while introducing a fertilizer at the same time.
Pre-emergent is best used to stop pest grasses like crabgrass and weeds from sprouting. It’s important to note that pre-emergent won’t kill established weeds. So, it’s important to apply your crabgrass preventer at the right time so you can kill weeds before they take hold in your yard.
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Is There Weed & Feed with Both Pre- and Post-Emergent Herbicide?
Although you may be wondering if you can apply pre-emergent and post-emergent at the same time, the results are typically not good. Because these two types of herbicide don’t play well together, high-quality weed and feed products typically contain either pre-emergent or post-emergent herbicide—not both. This is helpful for you since pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides have very different watering rules after application.
When Should You Water After Applying Weed & Feed with Post-Emergent Herbicide?
After spreading a weed and feed with post-emergent herbicide, wait 48 hours before watering. This time frame allows the herbicide in the weed and feed to infiltrate the weeds through their leaves. Once the herbicide has entered through the leaves, it will begin to kill the weeds. If you water too soon, you’ll wash the herbicide into the dirt. When post-emergent herbicide is washed off too soon, it will not kill weeds.
- Wait at least 48 hours after application before watering weed and feed with post-emergent.
- Post-emergent herbicide requires 48 hours to enter weeds through their leaves.
- If you water too soon, you’ll wash the herbicide off the weeds, rendering it useless.
If there is rain in the forecast, delay spreading your weed and feed with post-emergent herbicide. Although heavy rain is disastrous, even light rain can wash away the herbicide. Dry conditions are the best choice for these types of weed and feed.
When Should You Water After Applying Weed & Feed with Pre-Emergent Herbicide?
It’s best to wait 24 hours before watering a lawn where you’ve applied weed and feed with pre-emergent crabgrass preventer. However, weed and feed with pre-emergent herbicides are more forgiving than products with post-emergents. Pre-emergent herbicide needs to be watered into the ground in order to form a chemical barrier that kills seeds as they sprout. So, watering your lawn as few as 12 hours after application typically isn’t a problem.
- Wait 12–24 hours after applying a crabgrass preventer weed and feed before you water.
- Pre-emergent herbicides need to be watered in to work effectively, so a good watering or rainfall 24 hours after application is helpful.
- Do not overwater—this can wash your weed killer and turf builder out of the soil.
It’s important to note that both the fertilizer and pre-emergent herbicide in weed and feed are intended to linger in the soil for several weeks. During this time, the herbicide will kill weed seedlings underground while the fertilizer encourages green grass to grow. Excess water can wash both herbicide and fertilizer out of the soil, so it’s best to stick to a twice-weekly watering schedule for your lawn.
How Soon Can You Water After Applying Scotts Weed & Feed?
Wait 48 hours before watering after you apply Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed. This popular product contains two post-emergent herbicides—2,4-D and Mecoprop. Both of these herbicides need 48 hours to be absorbed by the leaves of the weeds. Then, it’s safe to water without disrupting their weed-killing action.
- After spreading Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed, wait 48 hours before watering.
- If you’ve spread Scotts Turf Builder with Halts Crabgrass Preventer, wait 12–24 hours before watering.
After using a broadcast spreader to apply Scotts Turf Builder with Halts Crabgrass Preventer, wait 12–24 hours before watering. Because this weed and feed contains the pre-emergent herbicide Pendimethalin, it’s safe to water your lawn the day after application. This will pull the weed control product into the soil, where it will kill sprouting weed seeds.
When Should You Water Your Lawn After Applying Weed & Feed?
Weed and feed products combine granular fertilizer with herbicide in order to promote green lawns and kill weeds. The best way to time begin watering after the time of application is:
- Wait 48 hours after applying a post-emergent weed and feed product before watering.
- After spreading a pre-emergent crabgrass preventer weed and feed, wait 12–24 hours before watering.
By waiting for this optimal length of time, your herbicide will work more effectively. This will not only wipe out more weeds, it will also encourage your grass to grow thicker and greener since there will be no weeds stealing the fertilizer in the weed and feed.
FAQs
When to Water After Applying Weed and Feed | Pepper's Home & Garden? ›
A: Weed & Feed should not burn you lawn if the recommended application rate is used. Apply to wet grass and do not water-in for at least 24-48 hours after application.
How soon can I water after weed and feed? ›It is usually best to wait 24 hours before watering the grass following an application that contains weed control. Also make sure that within 7 days of the application the product has been watered into the soil either by rain or sprinkler to ensure the best results.
Why can't you water after weed and feed? ›ANSWER: You should always follow the label directions when using insecticides, herbicides, fungicides or fertilizers. If the label says the product should be watered in, do it. It generally means the active ingredient is absorbed by the roots. Until it gets watered, it will not begin to work properly.
How long does weed and feed need to dry before rain? ›Rain After Fertilizer -- Liquid Applications
While liquid fertilizers are water soluble and have slow-release properties similar to granular products, they hold onto the plant material and organic matter when sprayed and the plant quickly absorbs them. But they need 30 minutes of drying time before becoming rainfast.
First of all, you wanna make sure that you water just lightly prior to applying the product so that the leaves are wet and the product will stick to the leaves. And then you'll also want to make sure that you shut the irrigation off so it doesn't get washed off.
Does it matter if it rains after applying weed and feed? ›Rain will actually speed the process of turf growth and weed control. After rain weeds and grass have an accelerated growth rate. This helps weeds to absorb the weed control and expedites the dying process. It also helps turf absorb fertilizer and produce new, green growth.
Should I water weed morning or night? ›Many experienced growers agree that the best time to water the cannabis is around 9 a.m. or in the evening. If you water cannabis at lunchtime, the sun simply evaporates a significant part of the moisture even before it completely penetrates the soil and feeds the root system.
How long does it take for weed and feed to start working? ›Oftentimes, you'll start to see weeds die within 5 to 7 days after an application. Around this time you'll begin to see the weeds turning yellow and starting to wilt. However, it's important to remember that not all weeds in your lawn are the same (and some are tougher to control than others).
How much time should I water my weed? ›We recommend watering every 2-3 days but test your soil, as usual, to see if your plant even needs water. There is a simple way to remember when to water cannabis: When—If the soil is dry an inch deep, you can water. If the plants are drooping, you can water them.
What happens if you use too much weed and feed? ›Healthy trees can usually tolerate one weed & feed application per year with minimal impact, however if you are applying more than one time a year or applying too much, and you do it year after year, your tree's health will deteriorate and eventually die.
Is morning dew wet enough for weed and feed? ›
According to the manufacturer Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed 1 needs to be applied to a damp lawn and this can include morning dew. The moisture will allow the granules to stick to the weeds. The manufacturer also states this should be left alone for 24 hours and then watered in. This product…
Does rain stop weed killer from working? ›Does Rain Affect Herbicide? Yes, rain affects herbicide efficacy because rainwater simply washes it away from the surfaces that need treatment. This is why it is not advised to spray weeds when it's raining or right before it's about to rain.
Should I mow before weed and feed? ›Be sure to read always and follow label instructions. Mowing – For best results, mow your lawn 1-2 days prior to application. Clippings from your next three mowings should be left on the lawn. Be sure not to use these clippings as mulch or compost around flowers, ornamentals, trees or in vegetable gardens.
Can you put weed and feed on a dry lawn? ›Granules stick to weeds better when they're slightly wet. Wait to apply weed and feed until temperatures are above freezing but below 80 °F and there is no rain in the forecast for the next few days. Extreme temperatures will lower your lawn's ability to withstand treatment.
Do you put weed and feed on dry or wet lawn? ›You should spread weed & feed on damp/wet grass (use a sprinkler or apply just after rain) so that the granules stick better to the leafy portions of the weeds. You should also pick a time when no additional rain is expected for two days, and you should avoid watering your lawn over this period.
What time of day is best to weed? ›The best time to pull weeds is after a rain or after irrigation. It can also be done early in the morning while dew is still on the ground. There is a lot more though to consider when dealing with weeds. Continue reading for a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about weeds and more weed control tips.
Can you water weed plants in the sun? ›You should avoid watering cannabis during the day, when there's a lot of sunshine, because the water evaporates faster and the plants won't get as much as they need. The best time to water or spray marijuana is: Early in the morning before the sun's out, or.
What time of day should gardens be watered? ›The best time to water plants is in the morning or evening.
Morning watering is actually preferable to evening watering as the plant has time to dry before the sun goes down. At night, water tends to rest in the soil, around the roots, and on the foliage, which encourages rot, fungal growth, and insects.
After the fertilizer has been completely absorbed into the soil, yes. It's generally recommended to wait about 24-72 hours after a fertilizer application before letting your kids go back onto the grass and to also ensure your lawn is watered well before the kids go back to playing in the grass.
How long does weed and feed take to grow grass? ›Seeding too soon after applying weed control can prevent your new seedlings from germinating. Below are the seeding wait times for each weed control: Weed & Feed: 30 days. Lawn Weed Control: 30 days.
How often should I water my weed in hot weather? ›
It's likely that, depending on the container size, watering them between 1 and 3 times a week will suffice. Though, as stated, use this as a guide, but take the final word from the plants and the soil.
Should I feed my plants every time I water? ›For soil growers, plants can be fed once every second or third watering. If plants are fed with every watering then nutrient buildup and lockup becomes a problem causing stunted growth, “crows foot” (curling downwards of the leaves), leaf burn, deficiency symptoms, burnt and damaged root system and decreased yields.
Is overwatering better than underwatering weed? ›Water your plant once it feels dry but wait if it's damp. But when in doubt, it's better to over-water than under-water your cannabis plants. Overwatering causes problems over the course of time, while underwatering can kill plants immediately if they totally dry out.
Is weed and feed better than fertilizer? ›A weed and feed product is a lawn fertilizer combined with a weed killer. A lawn fertilizer just contains fertilizer, without any weed killer. Whatever you do, you must not apply a weed and feed and then turn around and apply a lawn fertilizer. You will over fertilize the lawn and may damage the grass.
Is weed and feed the same as weed killer? ›Weed and feed is the term used for lawn care products that contain both herbicides (weed killers, the “weed” part of the name) and fertilizer (the “feed” part). Weed and feed is designed to fertilize your lawn while also killing weeds in your grass, like dandelions and clovers.
What happens if you don't water after fertilizing? ›Watering after fertilizing washes the fertilizer off of the grass blades and into the soil, where it can get to work nourishing your lawn. It's also important because if fertilizer sits too long without being watered in, it can burn the grass.
How long after fertilizer can I water? ›We recommend waiting 24 hours after fertilizing to water your lawn, which will give the fertilizer time to settle. After the 24 hours are up, it's important to give it a good soak—not just a quick spritz with your hose—to activate the fertilizer and help the critical nutrients absorb into the soil.
Can I use weed and feed in the summer? ›Keep this in mind: Most weed-and-feed products are temperature-sensitive -- not because of the fertilizers, but because of the control products. Weed-and-feeds should not be used when temperatures are over 85 degrees.
Should I cut weeds before spraying? ›You usually don't want to mow your lawn within 24 hours before any such treatment. This is because if you mow right before an herbicide treatment, there isn't much leaf area left to absorb the weed control. If a broadleaf weed control doesn't come in contact with enough of the plant's foliage, it won't be effective.
Can it be too hot to spray weeds? ›Temperatures in the low 90s or above can hinder herbicide uptake. Wait a few days for things to cool off to protect your corn from weeds and added stress. Avoid spraying herbicides, if possible, when temperatures surpass 90 degrees. During a heat wave, weeds shut down and can't uptake herbicides.
Should I spray weed killer on a sunny day? ›
Herbicides in general tend to work best in warm sunny conditions when weeds are actively growing and cycling nutrients into their growing points. In these conditions, weeds will take in herbicides most efficiently.
What is the next step after weed and feed? ›Just like rain, watering your lawn after applying Weed & Feed washes the weed control particles off of weed leaves before they can fully work.
How much weed and feed do I need for 1 acre? ›Second: Since there are 43,560 sq ft in an acre, multiply the amount of fertilizer needed per 1000 sq ft by 43,560, then divide by 1000. (4.7 lb fertilizer x 43,560 sq ft) ÷ 1000 = 205 lb of a 16-8-8 fertilizer will be needed per acre.
What kills crabgrass? ›If applied very carefully, a broad-spectrum herbicide such as glyphosate (RoundUp) will kill crabgrass. Take care not to allow the spray to drift, as this chemical will also kill desirable turf grasses.
How long do you have to stay off your lawn after weed and feed? ›It's generally recommended to wait about 24-72 hours after a fertilizer application before letting your kids go back onto the grass and to also ensure your lawn is watered well before the kids go back to playing in the grass.
How many minutes should I water my lawn after fertilizing? ›How Long Should You Water Your Lawn After Fertilizing? The fertilizer and soil should be thoroughly moist, but don't water so much that the water begins to form puddles. About 20 minutes should do the trick.
How long can fertilizer sit on lawn before watering? ›When to Water a Lawn After Fertilizing? At Master Lawn, we typically say to wait 24 hours before watering your lawn after fertilizing. But it is important to make sure that it does receive a good watering session soon after that 24 hour waiting period.
What to do after weed and feed is applied? ›Do not allow people or pets to enter treated areas until dusts have settled. Particles should stick to weed leaves for at least 24 hours after application, so it is best to limit activity from kids and pets for 24 hours after application.
Can you put down weed and feed anytime? ›The ideal time to apply weed and feed is in the early spring, just about the same time that you notice your lawn needs the first trim of the season. Besides choosing the best time of the year to apply weed and feed to your lawn, you need to keep an eye on the weekly weather forecast as well.
Why wait 24 hours to water after fertilizing? ›We recommend waiting 24 hours after fertilizing to water your lawn, which will give the fertilizer time to settle. After the 24 hours are up, it's important to give it a good soak—not just a quick spritz with your hose—to activate the fertilizer and help the critical nutrients absorb into the soil.
Can I water and fertilize on the same day? ›
A day or two before applying fertilizer, water your lawn thoroughly. After grass dries, apply fertilizer. Then lightly water again. This second watering is vitally important, because it washes fertilizer off grass blades and into soil.
Can you water too much after fertilizing lawn? ›Watering to the appropriate levels after a fertilizer application is important. Too much and you can have run-off and diluted products. Too little and the fertilizer will just sit on the very surface of the ground and will not provide ideal conditions for the grass to take up the nutrients.
Should you mow before or after fertilizer? ›The perfect time to cut your grass would be right before your fertilization treatment. This way, your lawn is already at its perfect length when it gets fertilized and you most likely won't have to break out the lawnmower for another week.
What if it rains after I fertilize my lawn? ›Here's the deal: rainfall after fertilization is absolutely not a bad thing. In fact, it's good! Water helps fertilizer fully absorb into the soil. Mild rain after you fertilize is nothing to worry about.
When should I fertilize my lawn before or after rain? ›“I don't recommend fertilizing before or after a heavy rain because the fertilizer can be leached out of the soil or washed away before it can be consumed by the root zone,” Clarke says. Instead, the best time to fertilize the lawn is right before a light to moderate rainfall.