2,4-D Amine will not kill actively growing Bermuda grass if applied in the correct volume at the right time. However, it will harm dormant Bermuda lawns. If you have a Bermuda grass lawn, wait until after spring green-up to spray 2,4-D in order to protect your grass. Also, do not apply 2,4-D when temperatures exceed 85℉, as applying during peak summer temperatures can harm grass.
If you are trying to kill invasive Bermuda grass, use a herbicide designed to attack Bermuda, such as Atrazine or Ornamec 170. Alternatively, invasive Bermuda can be spot-treated with Roundup.
Table of Contents
Why is 2,4-D Safe for Bermuda Grass?
2,4-D is a post-emergent broadleaf herbicide that attacks the systems of non-grassy weeds and plants. It is designed to leave lawns unharmed while it kills any broadleaf weeds growing in the grass. Because it is formulated as a selective herbicide, any actively growing Bermuda grass will not be harmed by a 2,4-D application.
- 2,4-D attacks broadleaf plants, such as clover, dandelions, garden plants, and shrubs.
- Most grasses are not harmed by 2,4-D. This includes many turfgrasses, as well as grassy weeds like crabgrass.
- Bermuda grass is safe from damage by 2,4-D if applied correctly.
2,4-D is an auxin-type herbicide that disrupts the cellular processes of broadleaf weeds, damaging the cells that carry water and nutrients. The chemical compounds in 2,4-D do not cause damage to grassy plants, because grasses are biologically very different than broadleaf plants.
How to Safely Use 2,4-D on Bermuda Grass
Because it is a powerful herbicide, there are some important guidelines to follow when applying 2,4-D to your Bermuda lawn. If used incorrectly, 2,4-D can cause harm to your Bermuda grass. If used correctly and at the right time, it will wipe out the broadleaf weeds and leave your grass unharmed. Here’s how to apply 2,4-D to Bermuda grass safely:
- Apply 2,4-D to Bermuda in spring, once the grass has completely greened up.
- Never apply 2,4-D to dormant (brown) Bermuda grass. A single application of 2,4-D can kill dormant Bermuda.
- Follow manufacturer-specified dilution and application rates when using 2,4-D. Applying too much 2,4-D can harm Bermuda.
- Wait at least 14 days between 2,4-D applications.
- Do not apply 2,4-D when daytime temperatures are above 85℉. This can scorch the grass.
When these guidelines are followed and 2,4-D is correctly applied, you will kill a wide variety of weeds without harming Bermuda grass at all.
Signs of Damaged Bermuda from Incorrect Use of 2,4-D
Bermuda that has been exposed to incorrect application of 2,4-D will exhibit the following signs:
- Yellow coloration.
- Grass blades have a dry texture.
- Scorched or bleached appearance.
If your Bermuda grass shows these symptoms following 2,4-D application, give it a chance to recover. Water the grass, apply a high-nitrogen fertilizer and stop mowing until new grass shoots have established themselves.
How Much 2,4-D Amine per Gallon for Bermuda Grass
If it isn’t properly diluted, or if a greater than recommended amount of 2,4-D is applied, Bermuda grass can be killed by 2,4-D.
Be careful to never overapply 2,4-D to your Bermuda lawn. Most manufacturers specify that 1–4 ounces of 2,4-D in 1 gallon of water are enough herbicide for 1,000 square feet of lawn. A little goes a long way. Pay close attention to the product label guidelines when using any herbicide.
When to Spray 2,4-D on Bermuda Grass
Plan to apply 2,4-D to your Bermuda grass in spring, when temperatures are in the 65–85℉ “sweet zone” to get the best weed control results. When applied at the right time, 2,4-D will wipe out weeds and keep Bermuda grass safe. The following conditions are ideal for 2,4-D application:
- Daytime temps are 65–85℉.
- Grass is moist or dry (not wet).
- There is no forecasted rain in the next 24 hours.
- There is little to no wind.
A dry, wind-free day allows you to evenly spray herbicide without the risk of it being blown or washed away. It will also help you control overspray and runoff. This will ensure any garden plants are not exposed to 2,4-D, which could harm them.
What Temperature Can You Spray 2,4-D on Bermuda Grass?
2,4-D yields the best results on Bermuda grass when temperatures are 65–85℉. This is the temperature where spring weeds are actively growing but the air is still cool enough that there is little risk of scorching your Bermuda lawn with an herbicide application. Apply 2,4-D only during these optimal conditions.
How Soon Can You Seed Bermuda After 2,4-D is Applied?
Wait at least 14 days after spraying 2,4-D before seeding your Bermuda yard. Although grass seeds will not be harmed by 2,4-D, young grass is very sensitive. By waiting 14 days following application, you allow time for the 2,4-D to wash out of the soil. Once this time has passed, it’s safe to seed your yard with new Bermuda grass.
2,4-D Herbicide Effect on Bermuda Grass
When used appropriately, 2,4-D is an incredibly effective post-emergent herbicide that will kill the weeds in your yard and leave Bermuda Grass growing strong. In order to get the benefits of 2,4-D while keeping your Bermuda safe, follow these rules:
- Follow label instructions when applying 2,4-D to Bermuda lawns.
- Do not apply to dormant Bermuda grass.
- Apply when air temperatures are 65–85℉.
- Wait at least 14 days between 2,4-D applications.
Selective weed killers like 2,4-D are powerful weed control measures. When used properly, 2,4-D is among the best tools for keeping your Bermuda lawn weed-free.
