There have been trials of a new pre-emergent herbicide (plateau) that kills seeds and allows the trees, shrubs, and perennials to thrive without competition.  Plateau seems to allow many annuals to grow while not allowing cheatgrass to germinate.  Unfortunately this product is not available to homeowners or landscapers at this time.

There are however several other  pre-emergent herbicides which are available to control cheatgrass.  The cost for these products runs about 1 to 2 cents per square foot.  Casoron is a granular product and Weedstopper is the liquid equivalent pre-emergent.  The major difference between these products is that Plateau seems to allow many annuals to grow while the Casoron/Weedstoper will kill these shallow rooted plants.  All of these products can be applied over dirt, rock, or bark, but be sure to water them into the ground so that it will penetrate the soil where the seeds reside.

You also may want to apply a soil penetrant to help the burned and baked soil absorb the water rather than have the water puddle and roll off the surface along with your pre-emergent herbicide.

For most homes these products will run about twenty to thirty dollars per year depending upon the areas to be covered.

By David Ruf

Geeenhouse Garden Center