How to Outsmart your Weeds Naturally with Corn Gluten

Corn gluten is a natural pre-emergent herbicide to help control annual lawn and garden weeds. Corn gluten prevents a majority of annual weed seeds from sprouting. The dry corn gluten is also a fertilizer containing 9% nitrogen. The liquid form is very convenient, employing a hose end attachment on the bottle for easy application, but does not provide the fertilizing component.

Timing is the most important factor in the effectiveness of corn gluten. Corn gluten must be present on the soil before weed seeds sprout (germinate) in order to be effective. Apply corn gluten in late winter and late summer/early fall:

• Mid-January – This application of corn gluten helps control spring and summer weeds, such as crabgrass and sandbur. As the soil begins to warm in late winter is the correct time to apply corn gluten. Especially with sandburs, multiple applications may be necessary. Corn gluten may be applied every 6 weeks through September.
• Mid-September – This application helps control fall and winter weeds, such as annual bluegrass, fescue grass, henbit, chickweed, bur clover, mustards, and annual thistles. This is the proper time to fertilize lawns, so corn gluten will suffice as the fall fertilizer, too. The best time to apply is when we feel the first break in the hot weather of summer – at the first hint of cooler weather.

Weed seeds can germinate at any time of year. In cases of severe weed infestation apply corn gluten every 6 weeks during the growing season.

The recommended application rate is 20 pounds per 1000 square feet or 2 pounds per 100 square feet. Do not apply compost, compost tea, or soil activator for 6 – 8 weeks after applying corn gluten, as it may interfere with the effectiveness of the corn gluten.

In garden beds, hand pull existing weeds, and then apply corn gluten. Reapply whenever the soil is turned.

On a lawn, a drop spreader is ideal for spreading corn gluten. After application, water the area and then allow it to dry for several days.

Corn gluten is most effective under these conditions, so avoid applying prior to a rainy period.  Do not distribute seeds into the area. Corn gluten will prevent their germination for the next 6-8 weeks!