Is Preen Safe For Vegetable Gardens?
Preen is a popular weed control product for gardens available for both home and professional use. It is widely used for controlling weeds in vegetable gardens- but is it really safe for vegetables and other food plants?
What is Preen?
Preen is a brand of weed killer that is known for its power in killing and preventing weed growth. The active ingredient in Preen is the pre-emergent herbicide trifluralin, hence the name. It is a non-selective and contact herbicide, meaning it kills all plants it comes into contact with, regardless of the species.
Is Preen Safe For Vegetable Gardens?
The answer is both yes and no. Preen offers a great solution for controlling many weeds, even in vegetable gardens- but proper precautions must be taken. Here are the key points to consider when using Preen in a vegetable garden:
- Preen needs to be applied before any weeds germinate. If it is used after weeds have germinated, it will kill the weeds but can damage the vegetable plants as well.
- Preen should not be applied directly to vegetable plants or areas where vegetables will be growing. Preen can damage many vegetables if it comes into contact with the leaves or stems of the plant.
- Preen should not be used on newly seeded areas. Preen can prevent seed germination, so it should be used with caution in areas that are newly seeded.
- Preen should not be used on indoor plants. Preen is generally not recommended for use on indoor plants as it can damage their foliage.
Preen is a powerful and effective weed killer, and it can be used safely in vegetable gardens if the proper precautions are taken. However, it should be used with caution and it is always best to read the label and follow the instructions closely.
