Spring Pre-Emergent Applications in Flower Beds

When it comes to spring landscape maintenance, lawns often get most of the attention—but proactive weed control in flower beds and landscape areas is just as important. Applying a pre-emergent herbicide, such as Barricade®, in early spring is one of the most effective ways to keep ornamental beds clean, healthy, and low-maintenance throughout the growing season.

Weeds compete directly with ornamentals for water, nutrients, and space. Once they emerge, control becomes more labor-intensive and disruptive to the overall appearance of the landscape. Pre-emergent herbicides work by preventing weed seeds from successfully germinating, stopping many common annual weeds before they ever break the soil surface.

When applied to mulched beds, decorative stone areas, and other non-turf spaces, pre-emergents create a protective barrier that dramatically reduces weed pressure early in the season.

One commonly overlooked issue is how weeds in flower beds can impact nearby turf. Many weeds produce seeds that easily spread into the lawn through wind, water, foot traffic, or mowing. If landscape beds are left unmanaged, they can quickly become a consistent source of weed pressure for surrounding grass.

Maintaining both flower beds and lawns with a coordinated weed prevention plan helps reduce overall weed populations and leads to a cleaner, more uniform landscape.

A spring pre-emergent application in flower beds provides several long-term benefits:

• Reduced weed emergence throughout the growing season

• Less competition for water and nutrients intended for ornamentals

• Cleaner, more polished beds with less ongoing maintenance

By stopping weeds before they start, plants are able to establish more successfully and maintain their intended appearance.

Not all pre-emergent products are the same, and safety should always come first. Before applying any product in flower beds, carefully read the label to confirm it is safe for the specific types of flowers, shrubs, and ornamentals in your landscape. Some products are approved for use around established plants but may not be suitable for newly planted beds or certain sensitive ornamentals.

Following label instructions for application rates, timing, and watering not only protects your plants—it also ensures the product performs as intended.

For best results, pre-emergent applications should be made in early spring, prior to weed germination. Applying too late reduces effectiveness, as pre-emergents do not control weeds that have already emerged.

Always follow label directions, and apply light irrigation if required to activate the product and move it into the soil where weed seeds germinate.

Incorporating pre-emergent herbicides into spring flower bed maintenance sets the foundation for a healthier landscape all season long. When flower beds and lawns are managed together, weed control becomes more effective, maintenance demands are reduced, and overall landscape quality improves.

Preventing weeds early is one of the simplest ways to protect both your ornamental beds and your lawn.