When And How To Apply Weed And Feed March April May

Last updated on May 10th, 2025 at 11:30 am

Achieving a weed free lawn this spring starts with proper weed and feed application. My guide will give you the basic knowledge to select the right products, understand timing and key application techniques for the best results. Whether you’ve got crabgrass or general broadleaf weeds, I’ll cover everything from pre-emergent to post-emergent herbicides, tailored to your specific grass type and region.

Learn more about grass types here.

Read the label and follow the instructions

Read the Label—Seriously.It might sound obvious, but many lawn care mistakes happen simply because people skip or skim the instructions. Every product whether it’s weed and feed or a crabgrass preventer, has specific guidelines for application timing, weather conditions, watering schedules, and spreader settings. Following the label ensures you’re applying the right amount at the right time, which protects both your lawn and the environment. Too much product can burn your grass or contaminate water sources, while too little won’t be effective. So take a few minutes to read the label start to finish.

I’ve helped hundreds of customers at Lowes over the years, so I do consider myself very knowledgeable on this subject. Here are my tips to enhance the effectiveness of your lawn care routine:

1. Optimal Timing for Application

Applying weed and feed products at the right time is crucial for maximizing their benefits. Early spring, typically between late March and early May, is ideal as grass begins to grow actively. It’s essential to apply the product before weeds germinate, which usually occurs as temperatures rise.

2. Prepare Your Lawn Thoroughly

Before application, mow your lawn to a height of 2-3 inches. This practice ensures that herbicides reach the target weeds effectively while minimizing contact with desirable grass. Additionally, remove any debris or thatch from your lawn’s surface. Thatch can prevent the weed and feed product from reaching the soil effectively.

3. Monitor Weather Conditions

Weather plays a significant role in the success of weed and feed applications. Apply the product when the lawn is slightly damp, such as after a light watering or morning dew, but avoid overly wet conditions. Avoid applying during extreme heat or drought, as the grass may be stressed, and the chemical could cause further damage. Heavy rain can wash away the product before it has a chance to work, reducing its effectiveness.

4. Understand the Types of Herbicides

Weed and feed products contain either pre-emergent or post-emergent herbicides. Pre-emergent herbicides prevent weed seeds from germinating and should be applied in early spring before weeds sprout. Post-emergent herbicides target existing weeds and can be used throughout the year. Choosing the right type depends on the stage of weed growth present in your yard.

5. Follow Application Guidelines Carefully

Always read and follow the instructions on the weed and feed product label. Use the recommended amount to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to fertilizer burn or ineffective nutrient uptake. Applying too much can harm your lawn, while too little may not effectively control weeds.

6. Consider Lawn Health Practices

Maintaining healthy turf through proper mowing, watering, and aeration can naturally reduce weed infestations. Healthy grass competes effectively with weeds for light, water, and nutrients. Regular mowing at the appropriate height and frequency, along with adequate watering, supports lawn health and minimizes weed growth.

By implementing these practices, you can achieve a lush, green lawn while effectively managing weeds.

Weed and Feed with Sta Green

Caution must be used when applying weed and feed on warm season grasses in southern states like Florida, Louisiana, Texas, Georgia, South Carolina and surrounding areas. Some weed & feed products can kill St. Augustine grass.

Find a weed and feed product formulated for the needs of St. Augustine grass, floratam, zoysiagrass, centipedegrass and carpetgrass lawns. Scotts Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed and Sta-Green Southern Weed and Feed are both available at Lowes.

Here’s my article on southern lawns.

Spring is the time when your lawn starts to come back to life, and applying weed and feed is a key step to ensuring it’s lush and healthy. By targeting weeds and providing essential nutrients, this combination treatment promotes strong, green grass. However, understanding the right timing, conditions, and methods for application is crucial to achieving the best results.

Why Apply Weed and Feed?

Weed and feed products serve a dual purpose: they control weeds and provide essential nutrients to your lawn. These products typically contain a mix of herbicides to target broadleaf weeds and fertilizers to nourish grass. Early spring, before weeds start sprouting and grass begins growing actively, is the perfect time for a treatment that tackles both issues simultaneously. But when exactly should you apply it?

The Best Time to Apply Weed and Feed: March to May

Timing is everything when it comes to applying weed and feed. For most regions, late March to early May is ideal, depending on local climate conditions. The goal is to apply before weeds begin germinating, which usually happens when the soil temperature reaches 55°F. Applying too early can lead to ineffective results, while applying too late may allow weeds to establish themselves before the treatment takes effect.

• March: As temperatures warm up, it’s time to begin thinking about weed and feed. Apply as early as possible when the ground is workable, but before weeds start sprouting.
• April: The ideal window for most lawns. The weather is mild, and grass begins to grow, making it the perfect time for weed and feed to take effect.
• May: Late spring can work, but you risk missing the ideal pre-emergent window for weeds, especially if it’s a warm year.

Preparing Your Lawn for Application

Before you apply the weed and feed, it’s crucial to prepare your lawn properly.

1. Mow the Lawn: Ensure your grass is cut to a height of 2-3 inches. This allows the herbicides to target weeds effectively without harming the healthy grass.
2. Remove Debris and Thatch: Clearing your lawn of any fallen leaves, sticks, and excess thatch ensures that the product can reach the soil. Thatch can block the treatment from penetrating, reducing its effectiveness.
3. Water the Lawn: If your lawn is dry, lightly water it before application. A damp lawn helps the weed and feed adhere better, but avoid applying when the ground is too wet or during heavy rain.

Weather Considerations

One of the most important factors when applying weed and feed is the weather. A light dew or early morning moisture is ideal, as it helps the product stick to the weeds without washing away. Avoid applying during periods of extreme heat or drought, as stressed grass can react poorly to the chemicals in the weed and feed. If heavy rain is expected within 24 hours, it’s best to delay the application, as the rain can wash away the product before it has a chance to work.

Choosing the Right Type of Weed and Feed

There are two main types of weed and feed products: pre-emergent and post-emergent.

• Pre-emergent Herbicides are designed to prevent weeds from germinating. They should be applied in early spring, before weeds start to sprout.
• Post-emergent Herbicides target existing weeds and are most effective when weeds are actively growing. These can be used later in the season but should be applied when weeds are visibly active.

Choosing the right type of herbicide for your lawn will depend on your specific needs. If you’re dealing with a weed outbreak, a post-emergent weed and feed may be more suitable. However, for preventing weed growth, a pre-emergent is your best option.

How to Apply Weed and Feed

Follow the instructions on the product label carefully for best results. Over-application can lead to fertilizer burn, while under-application may not effectively tackle weeds. Here are the basic steps to follow:

1. Check the Weather Forecast: Apply on a day when rain is not expected within 24 hours.
2. Even Application: Use a broadcast spreader or drop spreader to ensure even coverage. If you’re using a liquid formula, consider using a sprayer to target weeds more precisely.
3. Water After Application: After applying the product, water the lawn lightly to help the fertilizer begin to soak into the soil.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying During the Wrong Time: Don’t apply weed and feed when the grass is stressed or during extreme weather. Make sure to avoid late spring when weeds are fully established.
• Too Much or Too Little Product: Always follow the product’s instructions. Using too much can harm your grass, while too little may leave weeds unchecked.
• Not Maintaining Lawn Health: Healthy grass naturally fights off weeds. Regular mowing, proper watering, and aeration reduce the likelihood of a weed invasion, so make sure your lawn is in good condition to begin with.

Additional Tips for a Healthier Lawn

While weed and feed products can work wonders, maintaining the overall health of your lawn is just as important. Regular lawn care practices, such as proper mowing, watering, and aeration, can help create a thicker, healthier turf that naturally crowds out weeds. Healthy grass competes with weeds for sunlight, water, and nutrients, making it much harder for weeds to establish themselves.

• Use a weed and feed if you’re dealing with broadleaf weeds that have already sprouted and need to both feed your grass and control the weeds at the same time.

• Use a crabgrass preventer if you want to stop crabgrass seeds from germinating and spreading. This ensures your lawn remains free of these pesky weeds before they even have a chance to grow.

By following these steps and taking care of your lawn year-round, you can enjoy a lush, green yard free of weeds.

Tips For Applying Crabgrass Preventer.

Both weed and feed products and crabgrass preventers are commonly used to maintain a healthy lawn, but they serve different purposes and are applied at different times of the year. Apply crabgrass preventer early in the season. This can be from mid-March to late April depending on the region and weather conditions.  As a general rule of thumb, it must be applied before your lawn starts growing or when the forsythia shrub blooms.

Why forsythia? Forsythia is the first plant that blooms each spring. It is very recognizable by its gold leaves.

When forsythia blooms, it means temperatures are warm enough for grass to grow.

By understanding the basics of spring weed and feed, you can achieve a healthy, lush lawn. Proper timing, product selection, and application techniques are essential for optimal results. Remember to tailor your approach to your specific grass type and region. With consistent care, you can enjoy a weed free lawn all season long.

By Victoria Stone