Henbit Guide

Effective Strategies for Henbit Removal

When tackling henbit weeds on your property, several proven methods are available to help you achieve success. This guide outlines the most effective techniques used by professionals to eliminate henbit and restore your lawn.

Effective Henbit Removal with Herbicide Treatments
If physical removal or cultivation efforts fail to eradicate henbit, applying a post-emergent herbicide can be an effective solution. Opt for a three-way herbicide, which contains a combination of powerful active ingredients such as 2,4-D, MCPA, and dicamba. These products are particularly effective on lawns with Bermuda, Zoysia, Fescue, and similar grass types.

Before application, carefully review the product label to determine the correct application rate for your specific turf type and ensure proper usage.

When selecting a post-emergent herbicide to control henbit, ensure the product is specifically labeled for use as a henbit killer and compatible with your turf type.

• For Cool-Season Turf: Speedzone and TZone SE are highly effective for grasses like tall fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and ryegrass.
• For Warm-Season Turf: Fertilome Weed-Out and Avenue South work well for Bermudagrass or St. Augustinegrass that are impacted by henbit.
• For Pastures and Industrial Areas: Products with Triclopyr, such as Crossbow, are excellent choices. However, if applying near grazing animals, take extra precautions to confirm the product's suitability.

Always confirm that the herbicide you select is safe for your specific grass type. While some post-emergents are versatile, others are designed for specific turf varieties. Be sure to read and follow the product label for proper application.

Prepare your post-emergent herbicide by mixing it in a hand-pump sprayer. Follow the product label carefully to determine the correct water-to-product ratio. Ensure you wear protective gear, including gloves, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes, during the mixing and application process.

For step-by-step instructions, watch the video below:
How to Apply Post-Emergent Herbicide Weed Killers

Allow a few days after application before mowing the grass to ensure the herbicide has enough time to penetrate and effectively target the roots of the henbit weed.

One application of post-emergent herbicide may not eliminate all the henbit in your lawn. Refer to the product label to determine the recommended frequency for re-treatment. Consistent applications improve the likelihood of the herbicide penetrating the roots of the henbit weed, effectively stopping further growth.

Pre-emergent herbicides prevent henbit seeds from germinating and growing into new plants, effectively disrupting the weed's reproductive cycle. For best results, apply a pre-emergent herbicide in the fall and again in the spring after the soil begins to thaw but before temperatures reach 55 degrees. These two applications target the typical henbit germination periods, making it easier to control this common weed.

Our DoMyOwn experts recommend several effective pre-emergent products tailored for henbit prevention. Explore the suggested products below to take proactive steps against this winter annual weed.

Cultural control methods can be an effective alternative or complement to chemical treatments when managing henbit.

For areas where henbit is already present, the weeds can be dug out manually. Once removed, apply a three-inch layer of mulch to prevent regrowth and limit the spread of henbit and other weeds in natural areas or garden beds.

To enhance your efforts, consider combining manual removal with post-emergent herbicide treatments. Monitor the areas where weeds were pulled, and if new growth appears, promptly spray with your post-emergent weed control product to prevent further infestation.