When should I put weed prevent on the grass here? (crabgrass, yard)

[mjohnson185]

I put down crabgrass prevent about 2 weeks ago and I think last year I waited to put the regular weed prevent and fertilizer at the end of April. Is it too early to put down weed prevent plus fertilizer now...it just seems to be getting warm early...or should I wait another time.

Also, I have a small patio next to my deck. It's cobblestone and I want to create some privacy around it. What would be a good privacy bush or tree. Is there a good privacy bush or tree that grows pretty fast and gets max 6 to 7 feet tall. I would like something that gets both wide and tall, but not too tall. I'm not a fan of leland cypress ( I don't like the too tall look). Maybe a red bud tree? The patio is facing the sunniest part of the yard and stays sunny most of the day. Doesn't have to be private in the winter..just looking for some privacy for spring and summer months.

[eloyfan]

Wait at least 4 weeks after putting down the pre-emerge crabgrass preventer. For the first time in NC I am going with the Scott's 4-Step. It worked great up Nawth, and I know there are better fertilizers out there used by the "pros", but coincidently I just did the crabgrass/fertilizer today. End of March for your weed stuff.

[CHTransplant]

Seems like regular (non-crabgrass) weed treatment goes down when the weeds are actively growing.

As for your planting screen, look at blue tip juniper as one possibility.