Preen weed preventer should not be used on lawns, particularly in areas where you intend to grow new grass.
Why Avoid Preen on Lawns?
Using Preen on your lawn can have detrimental effects on its growth and overall health. The primary reason for this caution stems from Preen's fundamental mechanism: it prevents seeds from germinating.
- Prevents Grass Seed Germination: Preen works by creating a chemical barrier in the soil that stops seeds from sprouting. While highly effective against unwanted weed seeds, this action does not discriminate. If applied to a lawn, it will also prevent any grass seeds—whether naturally fallen or intentionally sown—from successfully germinating and establishing themselves.
- Impacts New Lawns or Overseeding: This makes Preen unsuitable for new lawn installations from seed, for overseeding existing lawns to fill in bare spots, or for patching thin areas. Applying it before or during these processes will severely hinder your efforts to achieve a dense, healthy lawn.
Understanding Preen's Purpose
Preen is classified as a pre-emergent herbicide. This means it acts on weed seeds before they emerge from the soil. Its primary purpose is to stop weed seeds from sprouting in areas where desired plants are already established and won't be harmed by its action.
While not for lawns, Preen is typically safe and effective for preventing weeds in:
- Established flower and shrub beds
- Around mature trees
- Groundcover areas
- Many types of vegetable gardens (always check the specific product label for suitable vegetable varieties)
Always consult the product label for precise instructions, application rates, and a comprehensive list of plants it can be safely used around, as formulations can vary.
