As spring rolls in, many homeowners reach for crabgrass preventer to stop pesky weeds before they start. And while that’s a solid first step, there’s a common misconception that crabgrass preventer is a one-stop solution for all weed problems. At MissionGreen Services, we want to clear the air: crabgrass preventers do NOT control broadleaf weeds like dandelions—and here’s why that matters for your lawn care game.

What Does Crabgrass Preventer Actually Do?

Crabgrass preventers are pre-emergent herbicides designed specifically to stop crabgrass seeds from germinating. They work by creating a chemical barrier at the soil surface that disrupts the growth process of crabgrass seedlings.

However, this barrier doesn’t target other common lawn invaders—like broadleaf weeds. So while your lawn may be safe from crabgrass, weeds like dandelions, clover, and chickweed can still sneak through.

The Truth About Timing and Weather

Even when crabgrass preventer is applied correctly, weeds can still appear—sometimes just days after application. How? Weather plays a huge role. If conditions are warm and wet, weed seeds can germinate rapidly, sometimes before the pre-emergent has a chance to activate properly in the soil.

This is why relying on a single application of fertilizer with pre-emergent is not enough. It’s not that the product “didn’t work”—it’s that weed germination is a dynamic process influenced by temperature, rainfall, and soil conditions.

What Makes MissionGreen Different?

At MissionGreen, we don’t rely on one-size-fits-all solutions. Our lawn care programs are tailored to address the full spectrum of weed issues, including both crabgrass and broadleaf weeds. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Seasonal Programs: We apply pre-emergents at the optimal time and follow up with targeted treatments for broadleaf weeds.
• Weather-Aware Approach: Our team monitors local weather conditions and adjusts treatment schedules accordingly to ensure maximum effectiveness.
• Post-Emergent Control: We don’t just prevent—we actively eradicate existing weeds, ensuring your lawn stays lush and green all season long.

Final Word

A bag of crabgrass preventer is a good start—but it’s not the end of your lawn care journey. Without a comprehensive strategy, you’re leaving your yard vulnerable to the very weeds you want to avoid. Trust the experts at MissionGreen Services to go beyond the basics with a lawn care program that truly delivers.

Let’s get your lawn back to its best. Contact us today and take the guesswork out of weed control.