Pendimethalin vs. Dimension
Why does Gardener's Supply, Inc. sell Pendimethalin as a Pre-Emergent Instead of Dimension™?
Gardener's Supply has always promoted Pendimethalin as its pre-emergent of choice. Many gardeners have asked us why we do not sell Dimension™ for pre-emergent application. Here are our answers:
- Answer #1
Because of its root-pruning activity, Dimension™ at high rates thins and/or kills perennial ryegrass. If you damage the ryegrass by accidental over-application in March, the ryegrass dies and the bermuda takes until May to come out of dormancy. You have two months of brown lawn. Over-application can happen by "overlap" passes of broadcast and drop spreaders. In addition, if the bermuda is injured and not aggressive, it leaves the lawn open to weed infestation and more susceptible to insect damage. - Answer #2
Because Dimension™ kills crabgrass at the two-leaf stage, it has a higher potential to root-prune grasses. Incorrect -- heavy applications have been shown to damage lawns. Several of our customers, both homeowners and professional gardeners, have stated that they have damaged lawns due to its misuse. Are you SURE you or your crew will apply Dimension™ at the exact rate? - Answer #3
Dimension™ is promoted as a "one application" material to be applied in March. At this time, Dimension™ kills crabgrass seeds and young plants up to the two-leaf stage of growth. It is applied too late to prevent broadleaf weeds, giving these weeds up to a two-month start compared to a pre-emergent application in January. Even though it is promoted as a "one application" material, the manufacturers of Dimension™ suggest two applications for our area anyway -- one in January and one in June. - Answer #4
Dimension™, in some formulations, is nearly twice the cost of Pendimethalin. So you spend twice as much money for your pre-emergent needs. - Answer #5
According to the labels, Pendimethalin has a broader spectrum of control than Dimension™. With Pendimethalin, you can prevent more weeds from germinating and spend less money.
SO HERE'S THE QUESTION:
CAN YOU AFFORD NOT TO USE PENDIMETHALIN?
