What are some brand names of "granule" products I can apply that meet OSU recommendation? Make sure that whatever you select contains at least one phenoxy (2,4-D, 2,4-DP, MCPP, MCPA) or pyridinoxy (triclopyr, clopyralid, fluroxypyr) that is in an ester form. The best time to apply herbicides is generally around the same time that the last mowing and fertilization of the year occurs (October to early-November in the Midwest). Ideally, air temperatures will be consistently in the 40’s and 50’s and soil temperatures will still be in the 50’s.