Is Preen Safe for Vegetable Gardens?
Preen is a pre-emergent weed control product that can be used on gardens, lawns, and vegetable patches. It works by forming a barrier on the surface of the soil that prevents weed seeds from germinating. Preen is touted as being safe for vegetables because it is “labeled for use around vegetables”. But is it really?
What is Preen?
Preen is a pre-emergent herbicide made from trifluralin. It works by forming an invisible barrier on the soil that stops weed seeds from germinating. It can be used on gardens, lawns, and around certain vegetables.
Pros of Using Preen
There are some benefits to using Preen in your vegetable garden:
- It Prevents Weeds: Preen prevents weed seeds from germinating, thereby making it easier to maintain your vegetable garden with fewer weeds.
- It’s Safe: Preen is labeled for use around vegetables, so it’s considered safe to use in your vegetable garden.
- It’s Easy to Use: Preen is easy to apply and can be done in just a few minutes.
Cons of Using Preen
There are some drawbacks to using Preen in a vegetable garden:
- It May Not Prevent All Weeds: While Preen is effective at controlling most weed seeds, it may not prevent all types of weeds.
- It Can Be Harmful to Vegetables: Preen can be harmful to some vegetables if it comes in contact with the plant. It’s important to make sure that you apply it correctly and follow the directions.
- It’s Not Organic: Preen is a synthetic herbicide, and therefore not an organic option.
Conclusion
Preen can be an effective way to control weeds in vegetable gardens. It is labeled for use around vegetables and is relatively easy to use. However, it’s important to follow the directions carefully and to be aware of the potential drawbacks.
