Spring brings warm weather, colorful blooms and dreaded weeds. Pre-emergent herbicides are a useful tool in your warm weather battle against weeds.  Here are 6 tips to ensure you get the most out of a pre-emergent application.

1. READ THE LABEL. Pre-emergent herbicides are chemicals. It is the law to read the label and follow the instructions. The label will tell you what weeds and grasses the pre-emergent is effective against, how much to apply and if the product needs to be watered after the application to be effective. 

2. Avoid planting new grass seed. Pre-emergent herbicides can prevent the seeds from germinating. 

3. Don't assume the pre-emergent you use on your turf can be used in your landscape beds. Read the label. You could cause serious damage to your landscape by misusing a pre-emergent product.

4. A pre-emergent is NOT effective once the weeds are showing. The active chemicals in the product must be in place prior to the weed starting to germinate. 

5. The soil or mulch must remain undisturbed in order to maintain the pre-emergent chemical barrier. Disruptions and holes made in a pre-emergent barrier create places for weeds to survive and drive you crazy.

6. Some pre-emergent products may cause staining on concrete, pavers, stone and other hard surfaces. There are non-staining formulas available.