As an experienced gardening and landscaping expert, I would advise against using Preen on flower seeds. Preen is a pre-emergent herbicide that helps prevent the growth of weeds in your garden. However, it is not suitable for use on flower seeds due to its potential to hinder their germination and growth.
When it comes to flower seeds, it is best to allow them to germinate naturally without the presence of herbicides. Applying Preen on flower seeds can create a barrier that prevents the seeds from receiving the necessary sunlight and moisture to sprout. This can result in poor germination rates and stunted growth of your flowers.
Instead, it is recommended to use Preen on flowering plants that have already germinated and are at least 2-3 inches tall. At this stage, the plants are more established and can better tolerate the herbicide. Applying Preen at this point helps prevent weed growth around the plants, allowing them to thrive without competition for nutrients and resources.
Another suitable application of Preen is when seeding vegetables. You can incorporate Preen into the soil before sowing your vegetable seeds. This helps create a weed-free environment for your vegetable plants to grow without competition from unwanted weeds.
Additionally, Preen can be applied after mulching beds. Mulching helps suppress weed growth by creating a barrier, and adding Preen on top of the mulch further enhances weed control. This combination provides a low-maintenance solution for keeping your garden beds weed-free.
By applying Preen as early as possible in the growth process, you can effectively eliminate the need for hand-weeding, saving you time and effort. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the Preen packaging and use the product sparingly to avoid any potential negative effects on your plants.
While Preen is a useful tool for weed control, it should not be used on flower seeds. It is best to allow flower seeds to germinate naturally without the presence of herbicides. Preen can be applied after flowering plants have germinated and are established, or when seeding vegetables or applying mulch. Following these guidelines will help you maintain a healthy and weed-free garden.
