Will Preen Kill Tomato Plants?

Gardening can be a rewarding hobby, and growing your own vegetables is a great way to ensure a steady supply of fresh produce. However, weeds are a persistent problem that can overtake your vegetable garden if left unchecked. To combat this issue, many gardeners turn to preen, a pre-emergent herbicide. But, will preen kill tomato plants?

What is Preen?

Preen is a brand of pre-emergent herbicide that helps prevent the growth of weeds in your garden by stopping them before they can emerge from the soil. It contains the active ingredient trifluralin, which works by inhibiting cell division in germinating seeds. Because it acts before weeds have a chance to sprout, it is very effective at preventing their growth.

How Does Preen Work?

When you apply Preen to your garden soil, it forms a barrier that coats the surface of the earth. This barrier prevents weed seeds from developing, keeping them from being able to grow into mature plants. Preen is especially effective on broadleaf weeds like chickweed, lambsquarters, and pigweed.

Will Preen Harm Tomato Plants?

No, Preen will not harm tomato plants. Because Preen works by stopping the growth of weed seeds before they emerge from the soil, it has no effect on established plants. So, if you apply Preen to your garden soil before you plant your tomato seedlings, you can be confident that your tomato plants will be safe.

How to Use Preen in Your Vegetable Garden?

Before you use Preen, it is important to read and follow the product's instructions carefully. Generally, it is recommended that you apply Preen to your garden soil before or during planting season. This will ensure that the herbicide has enough time to form a barrier and prevent weed seeds from germinating. Be sure to wear protective gloves and clothing when handling Preen, and keep it away from children and pets.

Once you've applied Preen, you can sow your tomato seeds or plant your tomato seedlings as normal. However, it is important to note that Preen is not effective against established weeds, so you may still need to remove any weeds that have already sprouted manually.

Conclusion

If you're struggling with persistent weeds in your vegetable garden, preen can be an effective solution. Not only is it easy to apply, but it is also safe for your tomato plants. By following the product's instructions carefully and using it before planting, you can help prevent weeds from overrunning your garden and enjoy a bountiful tomato harvest.