In search of a solution to eliminate those pesky weeds from your yard? Look no further than Tenacity Herbicide, a highly effective weedkiller. However, while it may do wonders for your weed problem, you may be wondering: is it safe for your beloved pets? Don’t fret! In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need.
The Safety of Tenacity Herbicide for Pets
Once Tenacity Herbicide has dried, it is entirely safe for your pets. However, it is crucial to keep them away from the yard during the application process. Only allow your furry friends back into the yard once the herbicide has completely dried.
But that’s not all there is to know about Tenacity Herbicide. Let’s delve deeper into its active ingredient, the weeds it targets, and its impact on the environment. You’ll find answers to all your questions right here!
What Makes up Tenacity Herbicide?
The key ingredient in Tenacity Herbicide is mesotrione. This synthetic compound is derived from a naturally occurring compound found in the bottlebrush plant. It disrupts photosynthesis in specific plant species, effectively preventing weed growth.
Is Tenacity Herbicide Organic?
No, Tenacity Herbicide is not organic. Organic pesticides are made solely from all-natural ingredients, without any synthetic compounds. As Tenacity contains a synthetic compound, it does not meet the criteria for being considered organic.
Weeds Eliminated by Tenacity Herbicide
Tenacity Herbicide effectively kills over 46 types of weeds and grasses, making it one of the most powerful weedkillers on the market. Among the weeds it targets are crabgrass, ground ivy, nutsedge, and bentgrass.
Let’s take a closer look at these weeds and understand why it’s beneficial to remove them from your yard.
Crabgrass
Crabgrass is a coarse and clumpy weed that not only diminishes the appearance of your lawn but also hampers the absorption of essential nutrients by your grass. By eliminating crabgrass with Tenacity Herbicide, you can promote the healthy growth of your lawn.
Ground Ivy
Ground ivy, though not as unattractive as crabgrass, poses various risks. It proliferates rapidly, crowding out native plants, and can be lethal to some animals, including horses. Its removal is crucial for maintaining a harmonious and safe environment.
Nutsedge
Nutsedge can swiftly invade your yard, vegetable garden, and flower beds, leaving them in disarray. Attempting to manually remove nutsedge often leads to its spread, making Tenacity Herbicide a necessary solution for your weed problems.
Bentgrass
While some may find bentgrass aesthetically pleasing, it tends to dominate other grasses and weeds in favorable growing conditions. Removing bentgrass is essential for maintaining a healthy and balanced lawn, making Tenacity Herbicide a valuable tool.
Environmental Safety of Tenacity Herbicide
Tenacity Herbicide boasts a fairly safe profile when it comes to the environment. It has been classified as a reduced-risk pesticide by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The reduced-risk status means that Tenacity Herbicide meets one or more of the following criteria: reduces risks to humans, reduces risks to non-target organisms, minimizes contamination of groundwater or surface water, or improves accessibility and effectiveness of pest management strategies.
By being labeled “reduced-risk” by the EPA, Tenacity Herbicide demonstrates a better environmental profile compared to other herbicides and pesticides that pose greater risks.
Application on Flower Beds and Vegetable Gardens
It is advisable to avoid applying Tenacity Herbicide to your flower beds, as it may harm your flowers. The product label explicitly states that you should prevent overspray onto flowers. Similarly, refrain from using Tenacity in vegetable gardens or near edibles, as it may compromise their safety for consumption.
The Effects of Rain on Tenacity Herbicide
Rain immediately after the application of Tenacity Herbicide will wash it away. However, after approximately one hour, the herbicide develops a degree of resistance to rain. To ensure that the rain does not wash away the herbicide, it is recommended to wait approximately six hours before applying it to your lawn.
Optimal Timing for Tenacity Herbicide Application
Tenacity Herbicide offers the advantage of both pre-emergent and post-emergent applications. For pre-emergent applications, apply Tenacity in the fall or early spring. For post-emergent applications, target growing weeds. Two to three weeks after the initial post-application, consider spraying the weeds again with Tenacity to maximize effectiveness.
Instances to Avoid Applying Tenacity Herbicide
There are specific situations in which applying Tenacity Herbicide to your lawn is not advisable. Avoid using Tenacity when the temperature exceeds 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, refrain from applying it on days when rain is expected, as it will quickly wash away the herbicide. Keep a close eye on the weather forecast before planning your Tenacity Herbicide application.
Fertilization After Applying Tenacity Herbicide
Directly after spraying Tenacity Herbicide, it is not recommended to apply fertilizer to your lawn. Allow a waiting period of two to four weeks after applying Tenacity or any other herbicides before fertilizing. May or June, during the growing season, are generally the best months for fertilization. Consider these factors when deciding on the optimal time to fertilize following herbicide application.
Mowing Before and After Tenacity Herbicide Application
Avoid mowing your lawn immediately before or after spraying with Tenacity Herbicide. Allow at least two days before or after spraying to mow your lawn. This precaution ensures the effectiveness of the herbicide and prevents any potential adverse effects.
Watering in Tenacity Herbicide
If you are applying Tenacity Herbicide as a pre-emergent treatment, it is recommended to “water it in.” This involves adding water to the herbicide. Watering in Tenacity enhances its efficacy when employed as a pre-emergent application. However, watering is not necessary if using Tenacity as a post-emergent treatment.
The Whitening Effect of Tenacity Herbicide
Tenacity Herbicide causes both grass and weeds to turn white. This effect stems from its ability to impede chlorophyll production, the pigment responsible for the green color of plants. Typically, weeds take around three weeks to whiten and die following the application of Tenacity. Exercise caution not to spray Tenacity on desirable grass or other plants, as it may also cause them to turn white.
How Frequently Can Tenacity Herbicide Be Applied?
The maximum amount of Tenacity Herbicide that can be sprayed annually is 16 ounces per acre. As long as you do not exceed this limit, you can apply Tenacity multiple times throughout the year.
In Conclusion
Tenacity Herbicide is an extremely effective and pet-safe weedkiller. With its ability to eliminate over 46 types of weeds and grasses, it stands out among other weedkillers. Moreover, it boasts a commendable environmental safety profile. Remember, however, to avoid applying Tenacity to flower beds and vegetable gardens, and to follow the guidelines regarding mowing and fertilization. Employing Tenacity Herbicide correctly can help you achieve and maintain a beautiful, weed-free lawn!
Before you go, take a look at these other articles:
– Why Is My Grass Turning White?
– Will Lawn Fertilizer Promote Weed Growth?
