In the diverse landscapes of Arizona, from the Sonoran Desert to the high country forests, weeds pose a significant challenge to home owners, gardeners, farmers and land managers. These unwanted plants compete with native species and cultivated crops for water, nutrients, and sunlight – a serious issue in a state where resources are often scarce.
Common Weed Culprits in Arizona
Arizona faces challenges with several invasive weed species that thrive in its arid climate. Some of the most problematic weeds include:
Don’t go outside barefoot with goat-heads around! (Actual client photo of her sandals collecting goat-heads in the backyard!)
- Buffelgrass: This aggressive grass species outcompetes native plants and increases fire risk.
- Russian Thistle (Tumbleweed): This weed is a high allergen weed that can cause skin rashes and allergic reactions after exposure to the plant.
- Puncturevine (Goathead): This weed produces sharp, spiny seedpods that can injure humans and animals.
- Bermudagrass: This is a highly aggressive weed that can crowd out other grasses and compete with native plants.
- Field Bindweed: A weed with beautiful flowers, however outcompetes native plants and can reduce farmers crop yields.
The Pre-Emergent Solution
It is no secret weeds thrive in Tucson and throughout Southern Arizona. Not only can they be unsightly, but weeds can deprive your lawns, gardens and other ornamental plants of the water and nutrition they need. Conquistador Pest and Termite can help you contain the growth and spread of weeds with our Pre-Emergent and Post-Emergent (Spot Treatment) weed applications.
The key to a successful herbicide control program is a two pre-emergence applications and monthly spot treatments. Our Pre-Emergent application stops weeds before they even start. This weed application is sprayed over rock or lawn areas and is absorbed into the soil to stop the seeds of annual weeds from germinating. It is easier and more cost effective to detect and kill weeds early. With just two pre-emergent treatments per year, you can cut down weed growth by 80% over six months. Our treatments are tough on weeds and will keep them from taking root and growing in the first place.
But what exactly is a pre-emergent, and how does it work?
Pre-emergent herbicides are designed to prevent weed seeds from germinating. They create a chemical barrier in the top layer of soil that inhibits seed development. When used correctly, pre-emergents can significantly reduce weed populations before they ever break the surface.
Key Benefits of Pre-Emergents:
- Prevention: Stops weeds before they start, saving time and effort in removal.
- Year-round protection:In Arizona, applying pre-emergent every six months helps control both summer and winter weeds.
- Selective: Many pre-emergents target specific types of plants, leaving desirable species unharmed.
- Cost-effective: Preventing weed growth is often less expensive and labor-intensive than removing established weeds.
- Improved aesthetics: Pre-emergent treatment helps maintain a cleaner, more manicured landscape appearance.
Implementing a Pre-emergent Strategy
To effectively use pre-emergent herbicides in Arizona:
- Timing is key: Apply pre-emergent before weed seeds germinate, typically in early spring and fall.
- Water properly: Most pre-emergents need to be watered in to activate, but follow product instructions carefully.
- Reapply as needed: For optimal control in Arizona’s climate, plan on treating every six months.
- Combine with other methods: Integrate pre-emergent use with proper landscape maintenance and post-emergent treatments when necessary.
Professional Assistance
While DIY pre-emergent application is possible, many Arizona property owners benefit from professional weed management services. Experts can:
- Accurately identify problematic weed species
- Select the most effective pre-emergent products for your specific situation
- Apply treatments at optimal times and rates
- Provide ongoing monitoring and adjustments to your weed control strategy
By understanding and properly utilizing pre-emergent herbicides, Arizonans can gain the upper hand in the ongoing battle against invasive weeds, promoting healthier gardens, farms, and natural landscapes across the state.
To Conclude
Weeds pose a significant challenge in Arizona, but with proactive management strategies like pre-emergent herbicide use, it’s possible to maintain beautiful, weed-free landscapes. By understanding the unique weed pressures in the state and implementing a comprehensive approach to weed control, Arizona residents can enjoy thriving gardens and outdoor spaces while helping to protect the state’s native ecosystems from invasive plant species.
We are professional exterminators at Conquistador Pest & Termite Inc. (BUS #2022 | QP 1289). We have the experience and knowledge needed to safely eliminate these unwanted pests and weeds.
Call us today for more information or visit our services page. You won’t regret it!
