Pre-Emergent Season in Austin: Stop Crabgrass Before It Takes Over

As fall settles into Austin, many homeowners assume lawn care can take a backseat — but late fall is actually one of the most important times to protect your grass. Weeds like crabgrass, goosegrass, and spurge are already preparing to invade your yard next spring. By applying a pre-emergent herbicide now, you can stop them before they sprout and give your lawn a major head start for a lush, healthy comeback.

At Loopers Lawns, our fall weed control program is designed for Austin’s unique climate, ensuring your lawn stays clean, strong, and ready to thrive when warmer weather returns.

Why Late Fall Is Prime Time for Pre-Emergent Treatments

Austin falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 8b, where soil temperatures in late fall (November to early December) drop into the 55–70°F range. That’s when many weed seeds begin germinating — and exactly when pre-emergent herbicides are most effective.

Pre-emergents form a thin barrier in the soil that prevents weed seeds from sprouting without harming established grasses like St. Augustine, Bermuda, or Zoysia. Applying them now means weeds never get the chance to take root, saving you time, effort, and costly spring cleanup.

How Weeds Like Crabgrass Damage Your Lawn

Crabgrass and similar weeds don’t just look bad — they actively harm your lawn by stealing vital resources:

• Nutrients: Weeds compete for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, depriving your grass during dormancy.
• Space: Crabgrass spreads fast, producing thousands of seeds and crowding out healthy turf.
• Water: In Austin’s clay-heavy soils, weeds absorb moisture your grass needs to stay strong.
• Health: Weed infestations weaken turf, making it more vulnerable to pests, drought, and disease.

Left unchecked, crabgrass can quickly dominate bare or stressed areas, turning your spring lawn into a patchy mess.

The Power of Pre-Emergent Herbicides

Pre-emergent herbicides like prodiamine, pendimethalin, and dithiopyr create a long-lasting barrier that keeps weed seeds from germinating for up to six months. When properly applied and watered in, they remain active through winter and early spring — the exact period when crabgrass tries to sprout.

At Loopers Lawns, we use professional-grade, EPA-approved products that are safe for your lawn, pets, and family. Each application is calibrated for Austin’s soil and weather patterns, ensuring even coverage and lasting results.

Your Late Fall Game Plan

If you’re planning to apply pre-emergent yourself, timing and prep are key:

1. Inspect your lawn for bare spots or existing weeds that may need post-emergent treatment first.
2. Mow and clear debris to expose the soil surface for even application.
3. Apply the herbicide evenly using a broadcast spreader or sprayer, following label rates carefully.
4. Water lightly (about ¼ inch) within 24 hours to activate the product.
5. Avoid disturbing the soil afterward — don’t aerate, reseed, or heavily rake for several weeks.

These steps help create an unbroken soil barrier that blocks weeds before they emerge.

Why Hire Loopers Lawns

While DIY options exist, professional pre-emergent treatments provide more consistent and long-lasting results. Here’s why Austin homeowners choose Loopers Lawns:

• Free Lawn Assessments: We evaluate weed risks, soil health, and grass condition before every treatment.
• Precision Applications: Our equipment ensures even distribution for complete soil coverage.
• Integrated Weed Control: We combine pre- and post-emergent herbicides to eliminate existing weeds.
• Local Expertise: As an Austin-based company, we understand Central Texas soils, water restrictions, and seasonal timing better than anyone.
• Safe, Proven Products: All treatments are EPA-approved and environmentally responsible.

With Loopers Lawns, you’ll enjoy a worry-free approach to keeping your lawn weed-free year-round.

Set Your Lawn Up for Spring Success

For the best spring results, pair your fall pre-emergent with a few extra care steps:

• Fertilize lightly with a low-nitrogen, slow-release formula in early fall to strengthen roots.
• Control pests like grub worms or fire ants that damage turf and attract wildlife.
• Topdress and aerate in early fall to improve soil health and drainage.

By taking these proactive steps now, your grass will wake up strong and vibrant next spring — without battling a yard full of weeds.

Take Action Before Weeds Take Over

Late fall is pre-emergent season in Austin, and missing this window means giving crabgrass a head start. Protect your investment now with expert help from Loopers Lawns.

Call or text (512) 720-8788 or visit www.looperslawns.com for your free fall lawn assessment.

Let’s stop crabgrass before it takes the lead — and set your lawn up for its best spring yet.