What is a key consideration when returning clippings to the turf after an herbicide application?

Returning clippings to the turf after an herbicide application requires particular caution to ensure that the herbicide's effectiveness is not compromised and to protect the health of the turf. Allowing a period of 2 to 3 weeks before returning these clippings is important because this time frame allows the herbicide to fully act on the targeted weeds without the potential for the clippings, which may contain herbicide residues, to negatively impact the desirable turf species. This delay helps avoid herbicide reapplication or inadvertent harm to the lawn, ensuring the efficacy of the treatment.

In contrast, returning clippings immediately could lead to a situation where herbicide residues are recycled back into the soil, which could interfere with the desired effects of the herbicide or possibly damage healthy turfgrass. Therefore, the practice of withholding the clippings for a short period is seen as a best management practice to maintain both the turf’s health and the effectiveness of the herbicide treatment.