Weed Control and Overseeding Strategy for Large Southern Lawns

Weed Control and Overseeding Strategy for Large Southern Lawns

South Carolina, 3 acres, sandy acidic soil, centipede/Bermuda mix, drought killed grass, weeds (nutsedge, dandelion, purple flowers) took over. Herbicide timing and overseeding economics matter.

Weed Control

• Broadleaf (dandelion, purple flower): 2,4-D blend (multiple apps spring–fall).
• Nutsedge: Halosulfuron or sulfentrazone (summer). Or glyphosate in winter dormancy.
• Pre-emergent: Prodiamine/dithiopyr in late winter for crabgrass.

Overseeding vs. Spraying

Bermuda seed: 20–40 lbs/acre coated. 3 acres = 60–120 lbs seed. Cost ≈ herbicide program. Overseeding Bermuda in spring/summer gives a dense stand that outcompetes weeds naturally.

Sequence

1. Spray broadleaf now (temps >40°F).
2. Wait 3–4 weeks for herbicide breakdown.
3. Overseed Bermuda (late spring).
4. Apply pre-emergent next February.

On 3 acres, seeding Bermuda is cheaper and longer-lasting than endless spraying.