Corn Gluten Meal: A Natural Pre-Emergent

If you're looking for a natural way to prevent weeds in your lawn without reaching for synthetic chemicals, it's time you got familiar with Lawnbox® Grass Guard™ DG 9-0-0, which has the active ingredient corn gluten meal (CGM). This powerhouse byproduct of corn processing might sound like something you’d find in the kitchen, but it’s a game-changer for lawn care — especially for DIYers who want to keep their lawns green and their methods clean.

Let’s break down what it is, how it works, and how you can use it to keep your lawn weed-free the organic way.

Corn gluten meal is a natural byproduct of corn milling, commonly produced during the process of making corn syrup or animal feed. It's a yellow, powdery substance that’s rich in nitrogen — which makes it a dual-purpose product for your lawn. Not only can it help with weed prevention, but it also acts as a slow-release fertilizer.

Despite its name, CGM contains no gluten from wheat, so it’s not the same kind of gluten people talk about in food. However, it is high in protein, which helps in building healthy soil biology.

Corn gluten meal doesn’t actually kill weed seeds — instead, it prevents them from forming roots during germination. When weed seeds begin to sprout, they rely on moisture to grow both a shoot and a root. CGM creates an environment that dries out the root before it can establish, effectively halting growth in its tracks.

Important to note: CGM only works on seeds — not mature weeds. That means timing is everything.

Using Grass Guard is pretty straightforward, but success depends on correct application. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Timing Is Key

Apply Grass Guard in early spring, just before weed seeds like crabgrass, dandelions, and clover start to germinate. These weeds germinate when soil tempertaures are reaching 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on your location, this can range from late March to mid-April. You can also apply it again in the fall. Pro Tip: A good indicator in the spring is to apply it when forsythia bushes begin to bloom.

2. Apply Generously

Spread 10-12.5 pounds per 1,000 square feet of lawn. That’s more than you might expect — but you need that amount to get effective weed suppression and provide nitrogen benefits. Use a broadcast spreader for even coverage.

3. Water It In — Then Let It Dry

Water Grass Guard in lightly after application, then don’t water again for a few days. This dry period is crucial to disrupt the weed root formation.

4. Repeat as Needed

You may need multiple applications over several seasons to build up Grass Guard's effectiveness in your soil. Remember, it’s a long-term strategy, not a quick fix.

• Pre-emergent weed control

• Natural nitrogen fertilizer

• Safe for kids and pets

• Increases soil health

• Small particle size
• DG "Dispersible Granule" Technology

If you're committed to organic lawn care, Grass Guard DG 9-0-0 is a fantastic tool to keep in your lawn care arsenal. It’s perfect for DIYers who want to prevent weeds without harmful chemicals and feed their grass naturally at the same time. Just remember: timing, consistency, and realistic expectations are key. Corn gluten meal won't give you overnight results, but with dedication, it can help you grow a lush, green, and chemical-free lawn.