Teammate Instructions
PATHWAY โ TEAMMATE INSTRUCTIONS
WHAT THIS IS
A designated walking or pedestrian path โ gravel, decomposed granite, flagstone, stepping stones, or packed dirt โ where weed control is applied to suppress growth in and along the path surface. Distinct from driveways (vehicle traffic) and sidewalks (concrete infrastructure).
UNIQUE CONSIDERATIONS
- Pathways are often bordered closely by landscape beds, lawn, or ornamental plantings โ precision is critical.
- Gravel and DG pathways are porous โ product moves through quickly and can reach soil below, affecting adjacent plant root zones if applied too heavily.
- Flagstone and stepping stone pathways have cracks and joints where weeds root โ targeted crack application is usually more appropriate than broadcast.
- High-foot-traffic pathways require attention to re-entry intervals and wet product slip hazards.
- Some pathways lead directly to doors, patios, or play areas โ keep that in mind when selecting products and application rates.
PRODUCT RESTRICTIONS
- Soil sterilant products are generally not appropriate for pathways bordered by landscape beds or lawn โ residual activity can migrate and damage adjacent plantings.
- Use non-residual or short-residual products where the pathway borders ornamentals within 2โ3 feet.
- For flagstone/stepping stone crack treatment, a targeted applicator tip (crack-and-crevice or pinpoint) is preferred over a flat fan tip.
ENVIRONMENTAL & LEGAL FLAGS
- If the pathway drains toward a pond, stream, or stormwater inlet, treat it with the same care as a buffer zone application.
- Pathways near vegetable gardens or edible plantings require products explicitly labeled safe for use near food crops โ confirm before applying.
FIELD RULES โ DO
- Walk the entire pathway before spraying โ identify borders, drainage direction, and adjacent plant types.
- Use directed, low-pressure application โ keep product on the path surface.
- Notify the client of re-entry interval, especially on high-traffic paths.
- For crack/joint treatment, use a pinpoint or crack tip for precision.
FIELD RULES โ DO NOT
- Do not broadcast spray a pathway directly bordered by ornamental beds on both sides โ directed application only.
- Do not use soil sterilants within 3 feet of desirable plantings.
- Do not spray in wet conditions โ product on hard surfaces creates slip hazards.
RECORD-KEEPING NOTES
Note pathway surface type (gravel, DG, flagstone, dirt), application method, and proximity to adjacent plantings. Note any sections skipped or treated differently and why.