For most gardeners, the kick-off and success of the entire spring season begin with applications of pre-emergent herbicides. Regarding these herbicides, most farmers think of two products: dimension vs prodiamine. But can you differentiate the two? Do you know how they are used? This write-up will educate you about these two pre-emergent herbicides and which is best suited for your program.
Dimension is used as a pre and post-emergent to prevent weeds from establishing and killing already developed weeds, but prodiamine is a pre-emergent herbicide. Additionally, the two herbicides have different soil mobility levels, as prodiamine has a lower leaching rate than dimension.
However, they are similar because both are available in liquid, combined fertilizer formulations, and wettable powder. Also, they both control weeds effectively if used the right way.
Prodiamine Vs Dimension (Differences and Similarities)
Here are two main differences between Dimension and Prodiamine:
1. Soil mobility
Dimension and prodiamine have unique levels of soil mobility. Dimension has more downward movement and can leach through the soil profile up to the water table.
Therefore, it can effectively kill crabgrass and various weeds below the ground level. On the other hand, prodiamine lacks downward mobility, making it effective for killing weeds above the soil surface.
2. Weed control
Dimension is both a pre-and post-emergent herbicide, which can prevent weeds from establishing or killing them once they sprout. On the other hand, prodiamine is merely pre-emergent and is applied before weeds sprout.
Similarities Between Dimension and Prodiamine
Here are the main similarities between dimension and prodiamine:
i. Formulation
Both dimension and prodiamine are available in liquid, combined fertilizer formulations, and wettable powder.
ii. Weed control
When properly applied, the two are pre-emergent herbicides and are very effective for controlling crabgrass and other weeds.
When to Apply Prodiamine
For excellent results, apply Prodiamine before weeds emerge, as it is a pre-emergent herbicide. This should be in the spring and fall seasons. The product will not work after the weeds germinate above the soil surface. Therefore, you must apply it before weeds sprout.
However, sometimes the application time depends on the targeted weeds. So, read the product label carefully before application to know the specific times.
Watering In Prodiamine
Herbicides like prodiamine will break down and begin their weed control function over time. Watering helps boost this breakdown process.
Ideally, you should water the lawn within seven days of prodiamine application unless there is rainfall.
Therefore, water in 1/2 inch after this chemical’s application unless it’s raining or the snow melts within that time. However, do not overwater to avoid washing away the herbicide.
Does Prodiamine Need to be Watered In?
The simple answer is yes; prodiamine is a pre-emergent herbicide gardeners use on lawns. Remember, the grass needs to be watered consistently.
However, making the soil too wet can wash away the product making it less effective. Therefore, the recommended water is 0.5 inches every two days.
How Long Does Prodiamine Last?
Prodiamine can last on your lawn for six or eight months after application. Therefore, only apply more herbicide within that period if the weeds grow above the soil surface.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long is prodiamine effective?
A: Prodiamine is effective for at least six months after application. Therefore, you can reapply the chemical in your lawn six months after the initial application. However, it should be before the germination of targeted weeds.
Q: How long after prodiamine can I seed?
A: Prodiamine will inhibit proper grass germination if you overseed or install sod soon after application. Therefore, wait at least four months before planting new grass or reseeding.
Bottom Line
You now know the main key points on dimension vs. prodiamine topic. Their primary differences are their soil mobility levels and weed control capabilities.
You can use dimension as pre and post-emergent, which prevents weeds from establishing and kills already developed weeds. However, prodiamine is only a pre-emergent herbicide.
Furthermore, the two herbicides have unique soil mobility levels, as prodiamine has a lower leaching rate than dimension.
Nevertheless, they are similar as they are both available in liquid, combined fertilizer formulations, and on wettable powder. They also kill weeds effectively when used as required.
