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Spring lawn reserding #926370

Asked March 20, 2026, 11:33 AM EDT

If I put down a pre-emergent to control weeds how long do I have to Waite to reseed my lawn?

Oakland County Michigan

Expert Response

Thank you for your question.  For many crabgrass pre-emergents the recommendation is to wait until fall before reseeding yards.
I did find the following article that states using one of the active ingredients siduron or mesotrione at the same time the lawn is seeded will not impede turf seed germination:
https://homegarden.cahnr.uconn.edu/factsheets/crabgrass-control/
Timing of a pre-emergent application is best determined by following GDD Tracker recommendations .  More info in these links:
GDD Tracker
GDD Tracking-Spring Crabgrass Prevention-MSU
Crabgrass Control-UMn - pre-emergent active ingredient identification
I would also recommend doing a soil test to determine the soil fertility this spring. Knowing the type and fertility (pH, macro-nutrient levels, CEC, etc.) of your soil is the starting point to establishing & maintaining a strong/thick turf that can resist diseases, weeds, moss and insects/grubs and look great without wasting material or $. More info here: Don't Guess-Soil Test-MSU and MSU Home Soil Test-self mailer Soil test results will identify any fertility concerns that you can work to correct, to improve turf health (it’s a well spent $26). Your report will provide recommendations to correct any deficiencies found, fertilizer type and a fertilization schedule (amount and timing) based on your preferred maintenance level (high, moderate or low).
Here are links to articles on seeding a lawn and restoration:
Establishing A New Lawn Using Seed (E2910)-MSU
Renovating A Lawn for Quality & sustainability-UMN
Renovation of Lawns-PSU
Dick M. Replied March 20, 2026, 9:53 PM EDT

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