Prodiamine vs. Dithiopyr (Dimension): Which Pre-Emergent is Best?

When it comes to pre-emergent weed control, two of the most popular products are Prodiamine and Dithiopyr (Dimension). Both are trusted by professionals and available to homeowners, but each has unique strengths that make it better suited for different situations. Here’s what you should know before choosing between the two.

Both Prodiamine and Dimension:

• Prevent annual grassy weeds like crabgrass and goosegrass.

• Work best when applied as weed seeds germinate.

• Need to be watered in after application.

• Offer long-lasting protection with proper timing.

• Longevity: Prodiamine is known for its extended residual control. When applied early enough, it can protect your lawn for months.

• Flexibility: It’s commonly used in early spring, sometimes even late winter in warmer areas, for season-long crabgrass prevention.

Best for: Homeowners who want long, dependable coverage or live in warm-season locations.

Barricade®'s active ingredient is prodiamine.

• Timing: Dimension has a slightly shorter window of control than Prodiamine, but it can be applied later in the spring.

• Unique Advantage: Unlike Prodiamine, Dimension provides some early post-emergent activity on crabgrass, meaning it can stop young seedlings shortly after they sprout.

Best for: Homeowners who may have missed early pre-emergent timing or live in the cool-season locations.

Crabgrass Preventer Plus Lawn Food's active ingredient is Dimension.

• Regardless of which you choose, always follow the product label for application rates, timing, and safety.
• If you plan to overseed, you’ll need to time your application carefully. Click here to learn more about seeding and pre-emergent timing.