Fall has arrived once again. As the playing season winds down and you start preparing for winter, make sure broadleaf weed control is at the top of your to-do list.

Why Now?

Your turf is recovering well and thriving, thanks to the ideal temperatures and rainfall amounts that this season brings. Unfortunately, broadleaf weeds are also recovering and thriving, and fall is the ideal time to target them before they go dormant for the winter.

This is because the weeds begin moving the sugars and nutrients they need to survive down into their roots. When you make an application, the herbicide will easily move through the plants and down into their root systems, killing them.

Making Your Applications

You should apply herbicides once the leaves start to turn color up and until the ground freezes. The best results typically occur from early September through early November.

Applications should be made on clear and sunny days, when the daytime high averages above 50°F for several days. This will give the chemical time to dry on the plant and be absorbed. Be sure there is little to no wind, and clear the area of fallen leaves before applying.

Some weeds are hard to notice in the fall because they have finished blooming for the year, so be sure to use a keen eye. Also, add a surfactant to your herbicide mix when targeting any weeds with a waxy coating on their leaves.

On the product side, Vessel 3-Way Herbicide and Defendor have proven very effective for fall applications. Your ATS sales representative will be able to walk you through options that are tailored to you and your course’s needs.

An Important Note

Keep in mind that, due to cooler temperatures in the fall, the visual effects of applications slow down. This makes it more difficult to witness the curling, browning, and shriveling caused by the herbicide. Rest assured, the weeds will die over the winter and melt away into the healthy turf that will be there in the spring.

If you have any questions, please get in touch with your local ATS sales representative. They will be happy to assist you.