Should weed and feed fertilizer be watered in?

When it comes to weed and feed fertilizer, the question of whether or not it should be watered in is a common one. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can provide you with some insight on this matter.

Firstly, it’s important to note that not all weed and feed fertilizers are the same. Different products may have different instructions regarding watering. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully read and follow the directions on the bag or packaging of the specific product you are using.

In general, some weed and feed fertilizers are designed to be watered in immediately after application, while others may require a delay of a day or two before watering. This variation in instructions is due to the specific formulation of the fertilizer and its intended mode of action.

For those weed and feed fertilizers that recommend immediate watering, the purpose is to activate the nutrients and ensure they reach the root zone of the plants. Watering in the fertilizer helps to dissolve and distribute the nutrients, making them readily available to the grass or plants being treated.

On the other hand, there are weed and feed products that advise delaying watering for a day or two. This delay allows the herbicide components of the fertilizer to have sufficient time to be absorbed by the weeds before being washed away by water. In such cases, the herbicide needs to remain on the weed foliage to effectively control and kill the unwanted plants.

To provide a more personal perspective, I have encountered various weed and feed fertilizers during my years of gardening and landscaping. I have come across products that required immediate watering, as well as those that needed a delay before watering. Following the instructions on each product has always yielded the best results for me.

The decision of whether or not to water in weed and feed fertilizer depends on the specific product being used. It is essential to carefully read and follow the instructions provided on the packaging to ensure optimal performance. By doing so, you can effectively nourish your lawn or plants and control weeds without compromising their effectiveness.

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Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.