12 Best Weed Killers for Lawns – Just Grass And Nothing Else!

By
Nora Held
Nora Held
Research Writer
Apart from being our main writer, Nora also works for a number of gardening-related sites and magazines, sharing her experience as an owner of a small farm in North Carolina read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Bruce Williams
Bruce Williams
Expert Consultant
Bruce owns a small farm and loves to grill since his early childhood. He’s a professional cook, but hiking and enjoying the great outdoors is his no less favorite part of read more
Last updated: August 11, 2023
BackyardStyle.com is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here

Weeds are considered undesirable plants because they sap the water and nutrients out of the soil so that other plant life can’t thrive. So people use weed killer to rid their gardens from these plants. Weed killer is a powerful herbicide that you sprinkle over your lawn to rid it of these pesky plants but without killing your grass. In today’s review, we’ll be talking about the best weed killer for lawns so you can ensure your garden thrives from now on.

We’ll be comparing more than 20 products we’ve selected top 12 lawn weed killers, and in our article we will show you the benefits of each product. On the top of our product reviews you’ll find the editor’s choice which is the Compare-N-Save White. It’s a rainproof weed killer that can be used on grass, vines and hedges. To assist you with your buying decision we’ll be giving you in-depth information on the other 11 products on our list so you can select a weed killer product ideal for your gardening situation.

For each review, we’ll be looking at its active ingredients, what plants it can be used on and how much product you get inside a bottle. Our research team spent many hours researching and compiling the product data you’re reading about. This is so you can have access to a well-structured comparison table, in-depth reviews and buyer’s guide, which you can find at the bottom of our reviews. The researched data assists you with finding safe and reliable lawn weed killer products for your garden. So let’s start off with the comparison table so you can see which best weed killer for lawns have the highest ratings.

Quick Summary

  • "It’s a multipurpose lawn weed killer that can be used on a variety of plants such as grass, vines, brush and tree stumps. And with a 85-gallon bottle of weed killer you will cover 25,000ft² of land."
  • "Not only can this product kill a wide range of unwanted weeds but it’s also on our list as the best-valued product, because you can use one to four pints per acre of land."
  • "30oz bottle of liquid weed killer at an affordable – this product is the best liquid weed killer for lawns and it can be used on a variety of plants such as kyllinga and purple & yellow nutsedge."
  • Best for Nutsedge: Gowan USA 51496 SedgeHammer
    "Gowan USA Sedgehammer has an active ingredient called Halosulfuron that breaks through the soil and soaks into the deepest roots to destroy tough weeds, but it doesn’t destroy St Augustine grass or turfgrasses."
  • Best Organic Protection: Espoma Organic Weed Preventer
    "Espoma organic weed preventer is the best natural weed killer for lawns because it contains corn and gluten meal ingredients that don’t have any chemical compounds in it."
  • Best Herbicide: T-Zone Turf Herbicide
    "This herbicide has four active ingredients: triclopyr, Sulfentrazone, 2,4-Ethylhexyl ester and Dicamba acid. These active ingredients are responsible for killing tough weeds such as ground ivy, wild violets, yellow nutsedge and broadleaf."
  • Best Selective Killer: Syngenta Tenacity Turf Herbicide
    "Tenacity Turf is an easy to use product because it comes with a measuring syringe. It’s also highly economical because the small bottle of Tenacity Turf can make 98 gallons of herbicide and it can cover five to eight acres of land."
  • Best Double Effect: Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed
    "Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed is the best double effect herbicide on our list. How this weed killer works is it controls wildflowers such as dandelions and clovers all while feeding the grass."
  • Best for Cool Weather Application: PBI/Gordon 652400 Speed Zone Lawn Weed Killer
    "Some weeds are evergreen which means they thrive all year round and the PBI/Gordon Speed Zone product will kill weeds even in the winter months."
  • "The Pendimethaline active ingredient controls annual grasses and stops broadleaf weeds from growing.This herbicide works on most tough weeds such as crabgrass, poa annua, henbit, chickweed and moss."
  • "The bottle comes with a pump-n-go spray so you can disperse the herbicide evenly over weeds. Another benefit of this product is that you can use it anywhere, even on weeds around fences and tree rings where it’s difficult to pull them out."
  • Best for Southern Lawns:
    "This 1-gallon canister of herbicide can cover large areas of land while remaining rainproof for one hour after application and being developed specifically for southern lawns."

Top 12 Weed Killers for Lawns Review 2024

?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4199 people in the past 30 days
9.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.9
Features
  • Active ingredients: Glyphosate – 41%
  • Perfect against: weeds, grasses, vines, brush, stumps
  • Consumption: 85 gallon spray solution per 25,000 sq. ft.
  • Net contents: 1 gallon

More features: rainproof in 2 hours, results in as little as 2 to 4 days, ready-to-use spray

Our very first product is the Compare-N-Save White concentrate grass and weed killer & it’s our editor’s choice. The reason why we love this product is that it’s a multipurpose lawn weed killer that can be used on a variety of plants such as grass, vines, brush and tree stumps. A little goes a long way with this large 85-gallon bottle of weed killer because it covers 25,000ft² of land which means it will last longer than many other products. Weed killers that cover large areas using small amounts of products are money savers because you won’t need to frequently top up your supply.

What’s more, this product is completely rainproof after 2 hours of spraying the Compare-N-Save herbicide onto your lawn. It’s also safe to use anywhere around your home. You can spray the product around flowerbeds, driveways and even around fruits & vegetables which is part of what makes this the best weed killer spray for lawns. Simply follow the safety guidelines on the Compare-N-Save label when spraying the product around edibles.

Another benefit of the Compare-N-Save spray is that it kills plants straight from the root. This is because the product contains 41% glyphosate that penetrates the soil and seeps into the root of plants to kill them. You’ll be able to see results within two to four days after spraying the area.

For the best results, it’s advised to use Compare-N-Save White on a hot and sunny day when the temperature reaches or exceeds 60°F.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Large quantity
  • Works on lawns, vines and brush
  • Quick results
  • Covers large area
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Poor customer service
  • It’s not an organic herbicide
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9708 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.8
Features
  • Active ingredients: Dimethylamine salt of 2.4-D-Dichlorophe noxyacetic acid – 46.3%
  • Perfect against: broadleaf weeds, woody plants
  • Consumption: 1 to 4 pints per acre
  • Net contents: 1 qt

More features: results in 2 weeks, for use in a sprayer, available in 2 sizes

Are you looking for the best broadleaf weed killer for lawns? The Southern AG Amine 24-D weed killer is the ideal product for broadleaf eradication. Not only can this product kill a wide range of unwanted weeds but it’s also on our list as the best-valued product. This is because you can use one to four pints per acre of land which means you don’t have to use a large amount of product to kill unwanted weeds in your garden.

The Southern AG Amine 24-D can be used to kill woody plants and any type of weed on golf courses, pastures & cemeteries. It’s also the best weed killer for southern lawns. Southern lawns grow vigorously in the summer months so you need a product such as Southern AG Amine 24-D to control the overgrowth of wildflowers, weeds and grass.

Southern AG Amine 24-D contains Dimethylamine salt and D-Dichlorophe noxyacetic acid which absorbs into the leaves and stems to attack the root of plants & eliminates them indefinitely. The plants won’t grow back or spread seeds in the area after using this versatile weed killing spray. You can see results within two weeks after spraying an area.

It doesn’t mention that this product is rainproof, so it’s best to check your weather forecast for the next two weeks before spraying the weed killer on your lawn.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Best value for money
  • Works against broadleaf and woody plants
  • Comes in two sizes
  • Suitable for southern lawns
  • Eradicates weeds indefinitely
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Missing hose and spray directions
  • May not be rainproof
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4525 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.7
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.8
Features
  • Active ingredients: Triclopyr, trimethylamine salt 8%
  • Perfect against: yellow and purple Nutsedge, Kyllinga and over 50 other tough weeds
  • Consumption: 1gal per 1000 sq ft
  • Net contents: 32 oz

More features: rainproof in 2 hours, hose-use

Now let’s take a look at our budget pick which is the Ortho Nutsedge killer for lawns. You get a large 30oz bottle of liquid weed killer at an affordable price and it doesn’t compromise on quality. This product is the best liquid weed killer for lawns and it can be used on a variety of plants such as kyllinga and purple & yellow nutsedge.

The packaging is convenient because it has a spray nozzle integrated on the top so you can spray specific areas easily. It’s also the best weed killer for North Texas lawns because grass and weeds found in these regions are tough. So if you want to control overgrowth the Ortho Nutsedge is the product for the job.

One benefit that you’ll love about the Ortho Nutsedge herbicide is that it’s a ready to use formula that doesn’t require any mixing. There are also organic compounds in the formula namely Triclopyr and trimethylamine which means it’s a safe product to spray around produce & other edible plants.

The Ortho Nutsedge killer for lawns is rainproof after two hours of spraying the area with the product. Ensure you use it on a hot summer’s day when there’s no sign of rain; that’s when you get the finest results. Another useful tip for faster results is to spray weeds that are no less than 3″ high so that the formula can penetrate the roots quicker to kill them.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Best organic weed killer for lawns
  • Can kill 50 species of weed
  • Covers 1000m² per gallon
  • It’s rainproof after 2 hours of use
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Packaging can easily get damaged
  • The nozzle doesn’t spray in uniform patterns
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3287 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.6
4
Best for Nutsedge

Gowan USA 51496 SedgeHammer

Features
  • Active ingredients: Halosulfuron – 5%
  • Perfect against: yellow and purple nutsedge and other tough broadleaf weeds and suppresses kyllinga
  • Consumption: 1 pouch (0.5 oz) per 1000 sq ft
  • Net contents: 16 oz

More features: can be used without hurting turfgrasses St. Augustine grass, Bermuda grass, Kentucky bluegrass, and cool & warm-season grasses

The Gowan USA Sedgehammer weed killer is the best product to kill nutsedge and other tough broadleaf weeds. This is a granular herbicide that you mix with water. Mix a 16oz packet of Gowan USA Sedgehammer in a gallon bottle of water and spray over the targeted area. One pouch can cover 1000ft² area and it works extremely well so you can expect all the weeds to die when they’re sprayed with this herbicide.

The Gowan USA sedgehammer is the best selective weed killer for lawns because it doesn’t destroy St Augustine grass or turfgrasses. This product only eliminates tough weeds so your lawn is neat and tidy without the overgrowth of wildflowers. Gowan USA Sedgehammer has an active ingredient called Halosulfuron that breaks through the soil and soaks into the deepest roots to destroy tough weeds.

This lawn weed killer won’t harm pets or humans after the herbicide has died off in the area it was sprayed onto. It’s a reliable product that will work fast and die out after it’s killed all the weeds you’ve sprayed. For excellent results spray weeds with Gowan USA Sedgehammer during the early morning or at sunset. The reason for this is because the harsh sun can evaporate the water that the granulates were mixed into so it won’t infiltrate the roots of the weeds to kill them.

Always ensure you closely follow the mixing and application instructions on the product’s label for optimal results and safety precautions.

    What makes it special?
  • Best granular weed killer for lawns
  • Contains Halosulfuron
  • Kills yellow and purple nutsedge
  • Doesn’t kill St Augustine grass
  • Covers 1000ft² surface area per pouch
    What cons did we find?
  • Not rainproof
  • May kill some other plants located around the sprayed area
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6414 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.5
5
Best Organic Protection

Espoma Organic Weed Preventer

Features
  • Active ingredients: corn gluten meal
  • Perfect against: weeds prevention,including crabgrass and dandelions
  • Consumption: 25 lbs. per 1,250 sq. ft
  • Net contents: 25 lbs

More features: organic, application twice a year, safe for kids and pets

Most people are extremely apprehensive about using herbicides on their lawn or around sensitive plants because of the fear of how they might affect the environment. But did you know there are organic herbicides on the market? Espoma organic weed preventer is the best natural weed killer for lawns because it contains corn and gluten meal ingredients that don’t have any chemical compounds in it.

An organic herbicide is ideal if you want a lush green lawn without the weeds. Natural products such as Espoma benefit your lawn nutrients while destroying the weeds in between the blades of grass.

The Espoma organic weed preventer kills dandelions and crabgrass so your lawn is always neat & free of wildflowers.

Another advantage of organic herbicides is that it’s safe so if you have children or pets they can still play on the sprayed area without the risk of getting ill.

Espoma organic sachets are the best weed killer concentrate for lawns because of its ability to feed dying grass and eradicate weeds simultaneously. The ideal way to apply Espoma is to sprinkle the granulates evenly over the affected area and then lightly spray the surface with water. Ensure you apply the herbicide in the early morning or when the sun goes down to prevent the water from evaporating. You want the water to pull the particles into the soil so it can kill the weeds from the roots. Spraying the water on top of the granulates prevents the product from blowing off the grass or weeds.

    What are its best features?
  • Safe to use around children and pets
  • Covers a big area
  • Has all-natural active ingredients
  • Feeds your grass but kills weeds
    What could be improved?
  • May create mold growth
  • It can attract pests such as flies
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6501 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.3
6
Best Herbicide

T-Zone Turf Herbicide

Features
  • Active ingredients: triclopyr
  • Perfect against: violets, ground ivy, oxalis, clover, and the toughest broadleaf weeds in turf
  • Consumption: 1 gal per acre
  • Net contents: 1 gal

More features: improved cool-weather performance

T-Zone Turf is a popular brand that makes the list of one of the best herbicides on our list. This herbicide has four active ingredients: triclopyr, Sulfentrazone, 2,4-Ethylhexyl ester and Dicamba acid. These active ingredients are responsible for killing tough weeds such as ground ivy, wild violets, yellow nutsedge and broadleaf. It’s no wonder this is the best-rated weed killer for lawns.

You’ll also love that the T-Zone Turf herbicide has improved cool weather performance which means you’re able to spray the product on your lawn in lower temperatures and still get impressive results.

This product must be mixed with water. The instructions on the label are for industrial use so if you want to make a formula for your home garden mix 1.2oz to 1.5oz of T-Zone Turf with a gallon of water.

You’ll find that some products simply don’t work and they destroy your lawn. But not with T-Zone Turf because this herbicide does the job exactly as advertised. It’s a reliable product that will soak deep into the soil to attack the roots of the weeds and destroy them.

It’s advised that you don’t spray this herbicide on St Augustine lawns because it will kill the grass. It’s a strong formula so adhere to the safety precautions on the label. Ensure that you don’t allow pets or children near the area you’ve sprayed with T-Zone Turf for at least a week.

    What stands out?
  • Kills tough weeds
  • Has cool weather performance
  • It’s a strong formula
  • Has four active ingredients
  • 1 gallon can be used on an acre of land
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • This product is not organic
  • It will kill St Augustine grass
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 4045 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.2
7
Best Selective Killer

Syngenta Tenacity Turf Herbicide

Features
  • Active ingredients: Mesotrione – 40%
  • Perfect against: barnyard grass, carpetweed, chickweed, clover, crabgrass (large & smooth), dandelion, foxtail, goosegrass, henbit, yellow nutsedge, purslane, thistle, wild carrot and others
  • Consumption: 5 to 8 oz per acre
  • Net contents: 8 oz

More features: best for selective contact, 5-8 years shelf life

The Tenacity Turf product is the best selective weed killer for lawns on our list of reviews. This is because it only kills tough weeds on turfs and leaves the grass to grow. Tenacity Turf is a versatile herbicide that kills chickweed, clover, carpetweed, dandelions, yellow nutsedge & other stubborn wildflowers. The active ingredient Mestorione is typically used in herbicides for maize crops because of its pre- and post-emergence capabilities.

Tenacity Turf is an easy to use product because it comes with a measuring syringe. This allows you to make exact measurements when mixing the granulates with water. It’s also highly economical because the small bottle of Tenacity Turf can make 98 gallons of herbicide and it can cover five to eight acres of land.

The Tenacity Turf herbicide has been labelled as an excellent solution because it’s a chemical that retards the weed from photosynthesizing. It also prevents the weeds from germinating. What’s more is that Tenacity Turf is an herbicide that won’t kill St Augustine grass. Simply mix a weaker solution when spraying near produce or sensitive lawns.

Tenacity Turf has a five to eight-year shelf life so you can keep it stored for many years without it expiring. Ensure that you keep it sealed tight and that it’s not exposed to high temperatures. It’s a chemical product so don’t allow children or pets around the lawn you’ve treated for a few days.

    What do we love it for?
  • Kills tough weeds such as barnyard grass
  • Covers five to eight acres
  • Best for selective contact
  • Comes with a measuring syringe
    What were we disappointed with?
  • It’s not an organic product
  • The syringe doesn’t work well
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7650 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.6
9.1
8
Features
  • Active ingredients: 2,4-D and Mecoprop-p
  • Perfect against: dandelion and clover
  • Consumption: 5000 sq ft
  • Net contents: 14.45 lbs

More features: wet lawn application, lawn thickener

Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed is the best double effect herbicide on our list. How this weed killer works is it controls wildflowers such as dandelions and clovers all while feeding the grass. So you will have a lush green lawn that’s neat without the weeds in between.

The active ingredients responsible for keeping weeds under control are 2.4-D and Mecoprop-P which are used in most herbicides. The 2.4-D is an organic compound that’s used to selectively kill weeds while feeding grass nutrients. The Mecoprop-p is an active ingredient that kills tough broadleaf weeds.

The Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed is a wet lawn application. So you can apply this herbicide to lawns in regions that experience heavy rainfall. This makes Scotts Turg Builder product the best weed killer for Florida lawns because of the heavy rainfall this region experiences.

Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed has grip weed technology. This means that it kills weeds you can clearly see such as daisies and the wildflowers you don’t easily see, namely oxalis.

One aspect you will love about Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed is that it’s easy to mix the correct ratios because all the instructions are situated on the product label. It’s highly effective because this herbicide absorbs into the leaves of the weeds and stems so it can attack the roots of the wildflowers to kill them.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Can be used on wet lawns
  • Thickens grass
  • Can treat a large area with one unit
  • Kills tough weeds
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Damp packaging
  • May not be suitable for St Augustine lawns
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7095 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.4
8.9
9
Best for Cool Weather Application

PBI/Gordon 652400 Speed Zone Lawn Weed Killer

Features
  • Active ingredients: 2,4-D, 2-Ethylhexyl ester, Mecoprop-p acid, Dicamba acid
  • Perfect against: common and troublesome weed species (clover, ground ivy/creeping Charlie, dandelions) in turfgrass
  • Consumption: from 14,000 to 18,000 square feet
  • Net contents: 20 oz

More features: cool weather performance, reseed in just two weeks

The PBI/Gordon 652400 Speed Zone lawn weed killer is the top product to use for cool weather performance. Some weeds are evergreen which means they thrive all year round and the PBI/Gordon Speed Zone product will kill weeds even in the winter months.

PBI/Gordon 652400 has active ingredients such as 2,4-D, 2-Ethylhexyl ester, Mecoprop-p acid and Dicamba acid that keeps your lawn fertilized while killing tough weeds. The PBI/Gordon 652400 Speed Zone weed killer will eradicate your garden from clover, ground ivy, dandelions and much more. This herbicide can be sprayed around flower beds, driveways, fences and crop fields.

The PBI/Gordon weed killer is perfect for large property owners because each 20oz bottle covers 18000ft² of land. This makes the PBI/Gordon herbicide cost-effective because a little goes a long way. It’s a powerful formula that will eradicate weeds within hours of spraying the herbicide onto an area.

To use the PBI/Gordon 652400 Speed Zone herbicide, simply mix 1.1oz to 1.5oz of the formula in a gallon of water. Put the liquid in a proper spray bottle so you can apply the herbicide on areas you want to cover.

You can use the PBI/Gordon 652400 Speed Zone herbicide on Kentucky bluegrass, Fescues and Bermudagrass. It will only kill the weeds and not the grass surrounding the wildflowers.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Cool-weather performance
  • Fast-acting formula
  • Covers a large area
  • Kills tough troublesome weeds
  • Contains four active ingredients
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Poor packaging
  • Don’t use on St Augustine or Floratam grass
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6439 people in the past 30 days
8.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.5
8.7
Features
  • Active ingredients: Pendimethaline
  • Perfect against: crabgrass, poa annua, henbit, chickweed, moss prevention
  • Consumption: 5000 sq ft
  • Net contents: 10.06 lbs

More features: rain, snow, or freezing weather will not affect performance, application twice a year

Prevention is better than cure and this is why the Scotts Hall Crabgrass herbicide is ideal. It’s one of the best weed preventer products on the market because it contains Pendimethaline that’s ideal for pre and post-emergence. The Pendimethaline active ingredient controls annual grasses and stops broadleaf weeds from growing.

What’s more, you can use the Scotts Hall Crabgrass herbicide all year round. Snow, rain and low temperatures won’t affect this herbicide’s performance which means it will kill evergreen weeds too. It’s advised that you apply this product to your lawn twice a year to prevent the growth of unwanted weeds.

If you already have weeds growing in your garden then let Scotts Hall Crabgrass herbicide eradicate them for you. This herbicide works on most tough weeds such as crabgrass, poa annua, henbit, chickweed and moss. The best time to apply Scotts Hall Crabgrass herbicide is in spring and in the fall. Applying the herbicide during these times will prevent weeds from growing all year round.

Another handy tip to applying Scotts Hall Crabgrass herbicide is using a spreader. Ensure you cut your grass first and use the spreader to distribute the product evenly over your grass. This is because the herbicide is a granulated formula that works on its own so it doesn’t need to be mixed with water.

    What stands out?
  • Product is easy to use
  • Can be used during the winter months
  • Best weed preventer
  • Works against crabgrass, chickweed and moss
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • Covers less area than promised
  • Damp packaging
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9059 people in the past 30 days
8.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.2
8.6
Features
  • Active ingredients: Glyphosate, Pelargonic acid
  • Perfect against: weeds, grass
  • Consumption: 400 sq ft
  • Net contents: 1.33 gal

More features: ideal for lawn edges, rainproof in 10 minutes, visible results in 3 hours, pump-n-go sprayer

The edges of lawns seem to be breeding grounds for weeds and it can really make your garden look untidy. That’s why the Roundup Ready-To-Use Extended Control Weed & Grass Killer is the best herbicide to use on the edge of lawns. The herbicide is a dual-action product because it not only kills the weeds and not grass; it also prevents wildflowers from resurfacing. The formula contains two active ingredients: Glyphosate and Pelargonic acid that penetrate deep into the roots of the weeds to kill them. It’s a fast-acting herbicide that will start eradicating weeds within three hours of use.

Roundup Ready-To-Use is rainproof after 10 minutes of spraying it onto weeds. An herbicide that’s rainproof can be used in regions that experience heavy rainfall regularly and you’ll still have good results after a pouring rain storm.

This product is also extremely user friendly because it doesn’t require any mixing. The bottle comes with a pump-n-go spray so you can disperse the herbicide evenly over weeds. It’s also easy to refill the bottle should you run out of the solution. Simply remove the cap and pour Roundup Ready-To-Use liquid into the canister so you can continue using the convenient sprayer.

Another benefit of this product is that you can use it anywhere. Sometimes weeds grow through cracks in your driveway or concrete layering. Simply spray the solution onto these areas to eradicate the weeds growing under concrete. You can also use the Roundup Ready-To-Use herbicide on weeds around fences and tree rings where it’s difficult to pull them out.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Works within three hours
  • Rainproof after 10 minutes
  • Can be used around fences and lawn edges
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Can’t be used around vegetable gardens
  • Don’t use around flowerbeds
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2494 people in the past 30 days
8.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.4
8.5
12
Features
  • Active ingredients: 4-D Dymethylamine Salt
  • Perfect against: 200+ weeds (dollar weed, spurge, dandelion, etc.)
  • Consumption: not specified
  • Net contents: 1 gal.

More features: ideal for southern lawns, rainproof in 1 hour, visible results in 3 hours, concentrate

The BioAdvanced Trigger Spray Lawn Weed Killer is another herbicide that’s best for southern lawns. The herbicide solution is suitable to use on St Augustine lawns which are predominantly found in southern regions. There is one active ingredient in the BioAdvanced Trigger Spray Lawn Weed Killer product: 4-D Dymethylamine Salt. This compound infiltrates the leaves and stems of stubborn weeds so it can travel into the roots to kill them.

BioAdvanced Trigger Spray Lawn Weed Killer is rainproof after one hour of spraying the solution on to the weeds. So even if you live in a region that experiences heavy rainfall it won’t affect how the product works. It’s a highly effective herbicide that will start killing weeds within three hours after use. On the packaging it states that BioAdvanced Trigger Spray Lawn Weed Killer can kill over 200 species of weed including spurge, dandelions and dollar weeds.

You can use the BioAdvanced Trigger Spray Lawn Weed Killer herbicide all year round which is ideal if you have evergreen weeds that grow during the winter months.

    Why are we impressed?
  • Can kill over 200 species of tough weeds
  • Rainproof after one hour
  • Shows results in three hours
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • Poor customer service

Things to Consider

Now that you’ve gone through our best weed killer for lawns reviews it’s time to read through the buyer’s guide. This section is extremely important because we will explain what common active ingredients are used in herbicides and the different features you should consider before you buy your product. Keep reading to find out more about herbicides so you will know which product is ideal for your lawn and weed problems.

Pre-emergent vs. post-emergent weed killers

There are two types of herbicides: Pre-emergent and post-emergent weed killers. It’s crucial that you know the difference between the two so you know which product will work for your weed situation. It should also be noted that some herbicides are dual-action products so they will have both pre and post-emergence active ingredients. Let’s see what the difference is between the two products in this section below:

  • Pre-emergent herbicide: A pre-emergent herbicide will eradicate weeds before they can germinate to create more seedlings. Solutions that contain pre-emergent active compounds will disturb the growing process of the weed such as vegetation and kill the plant before it grows above the soil. It’s a preventative solution to stop weeds from forming and growing. Pre-emergent herbicides should be applied to lawns twice a year: in spring and in the fall to prevent weeds from growing during these seasons.
  • Post-emergent herbicide: The post-emergent formulas are suitable for eradicating weeds that have already surfaced (typically during the spring season). These herbicides are extremely strong because they’re used to kill stubborn weeds such as broadleaf and nutsedge. To find the correct type of post-emergent herbicide identify what species of weeds are growing around your lawn. There will be certain active ingredients within the post-emergent solution that are ideal for killing certain types of weeds. So ensure you purchase the correct product for the weeds you have because some active ingredients won’t work on certain species of weeds.

Features to consider when buying weed killer for lawns

As mentioned before there are a few features you must look at before you purchase your herbicide. It’s highly important that you consider these features mentioned in this next section because some herbicides aren’t suitable to use on sensitive lawns such as St Augustine grass.

In these features we will discuss suitable brands to utilize for the species of weeds you have and if it’s a product that’s ready to use or a solution that requires mixing.

Brand and Type

The ideal type of weed killer should have the following benefits:

  • Convenient and easy to use packaging
  • Ready to use product that doesn’t require mixing
  • Comes in a large capacity container
  • It’s a waterproof product
  • Can be used on sensitive lawns
  • Kills weeds fast
  • It’s a dual-action product

One brand that can offer you all of these benefits is the Roundup Ready-To-Use Extended Control Weed & Grass Killer. The Roundup Ready-To-Use product is a pre- and post-emergent product that prevents weed germination & it can kill stubborn wildflowers. It also comes in a convenient bottle that allows you to spray the solution in specific areas around your lawn. You don’t have to mix the product because comes in a ready-to-use formula.

You’ll also love that the Roundup Ready-To-Use product is waterproof and can be used all year round. It’s a fast-acting product that will eliminate weeds within three hours of use.

You should also look for a product that fertilizes your grass. You certainly don’t want an herbicide that’s going to kill your lush green lawn. Opt for a product that kills weeds and fertilizes your grass simultaneously. If you’re looking for a product that will create thick green grass and kill weeds opt for Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed.

Another aspect that you need to consider is the type of consistency of the product. Do you want a granulate product or a spray-on liquid? Some granulated herbicides can be sprinkled over your lawn with a spreader. A spreader is a device used to sprinkle powdered herbicides over a large area. Other granulated herbicides can be mixed in water or other solvents to create a liquid. Herbicides that are already in liquid form typically come in a ready to use spray bottle that’s used to disperse the solution evenly over selected areas of your lawn.

So which one is suitable for you? Liquid and granulated herbicides are equally effective. It’s simply a matter of how easy it is to apply the herbicides to your lawn.

Active ingredients

Different brands of herbicides have various active ingredients that kill certain species of weeds but won’t kill grass. Other compounds are formulated to fertilize your lawn while killing off stubborn weeds. Here are active ingredients that are commonly found in herbicides:

  • Glyphosate nonselective: This active ingredient kills most plants and it’s a nonselective compound. It prevents weeds and other plants from producing proteins that are required for growth. It’s used to control grass, weeds & broadleaves in certain areas of a lawn or field.
  • Plant oils: Nonselective plant oils such as lemongrass, clove and eugenol are organic herbicides & these are used to kill most young broadleaves. But these types of active ingredients won’t control older weeds. It’s best to use organic active ingredients in temperatures above 70°
  • Dicamba: This is a dual-action active ingredient that’s used in pre-emergent and selective herbicides. It’s used to prevent broadleaf weeds such as clover on lawns.
  • Benefin: The use of benefin in herbicides is to prevent weed growth. It’s suitable to use on most broadleaf weeds or to control crabgrass.
  • Trifluralin: The Trifluralin active ingredient is a pre-emergent compound that is used to kill most annual weeds. For effective results you should water the soil after applying herbicides that contain Trifluralin.
  • Dithiopyr: This is a selective and pre-emergent active ingredient that controls crabgrass, annual bluegrass and oxalis. It’s not suitable for bentgrass or fine fescue.
  • Fluazifop: Herbicides containing Fluazifop will be a post-emergent and selective product. It’s typically used on Bermudagrass or on landscape beds to kill most weed species.
  • 4-D Dichloroacetic acid: This is another post-emergent and selective active ingredient used to kill most broadleaf weeds such as dandelions or clover on residential lawns.

Types of weeds it can target

Not all herbicides are designed to kill every species of weed. When you purchase an herbicide it will state what types of weed it can kill. It’s important to identify the types of weeds you’re dealing with before you purchase your product. There are versatile herbicides on the market such as Bayer Advanced 502890B that can kill over 200 species of weeds including the following wildflowers:

  • Dandelions
  • Spurge
  • Clover
  • Pigweed
  • Crabgrass
  • Chickweed

It’s important to note that there are three types of weed that make up all these species:

  • Grass-like weeds: These types of weeds can be mistaken for grass but if you look closely you can easily differentiate the two. The weeds that resemble grass are more hollowed out into tube-like structures and they aren’t flat like your lawn grass. Examples of grass-like weeds are wild onion, nutsedge and wild garlic. There are various weed killers on the market specifically formulated to kill different types of weed grass so ensure you’re able to identify which one you have in your garden and buy accordingly. Opt for Roundup Ready-To-Use Extended Control Weed & Grass Killer to kill off these weeds fast.
  • Broadleaf weeds: This type of weed is an aggressive wildflower that spreads rapidly and it’s difficult to get rid of. Broadleaf weeds can grow in any area of your garden, particularly the weak points of your lawn. Broadleaf weed is easier to identify. This is because the leaves of the plants are broad and not thin & sharp at the edges. The leaves are flat and rounded. Examples of broadleaf weeds are ground ivy, clover, dandelions and chickweed. Use T-Zone Turf to rid your garden of broadleaf weeds.
  • Grassy weeds: These weeds typically only live for a certain season and then die thereafter, meaning that they are not evergreen plants. Grass weeds are extremely difficult to identify because they are not shaped like grass-like weeds such as nutsedge. These weeds look like actual blades of grass but they can make your lawn look patchy when they start to die after their season is up. Examples of grassy weeds are quackgrass, crabgrass and foxtail. Use Compare-N-Save to solve the problem.

Toxicity

Herbicides are chemicals that are not only harmful to weeds but often to humans and animals too. Some herbicides are used for industrial purposes so they will include various chemical compounds that can be a risk to people and pets. It’s advised to read the label of your herbicide and follow the safety precautions so you know how to keep your family & pets safe.

You should always wear a mask and gloves when dealing with herbicides to prevent breathing in any fumes or coming in direct contact with the chemicals. You should prevent children and animals from playing on or around the area after you’ve sprayed it with your herbicide.

If you are environmentally conscious and you also don’t want products to pose a risk of polluting an area, opt for an organic herbicide, for example Espoma organic weed preventer. This product contains all-natural active ingredients such as corn and gluten that have pre-emergent properties. Children and pets are able to play on the grass after applying the Espoma product.

Consumption

What’s the size of your property? Ensure you purchase an herbicide that has a large enough consumption rating, so it will cover the entirety of the area you want to treat. Liquid herbicides come in large gallons and granulate products come in big bags. Smaller powered sachets can be mixed in large bottles of water that you spray around an area.

On your product label it will state how many square feet the product can cover. If you have a larger area to cover and the product you want only comes in one size you may have to purchase more than one sachet or bottle.

Efficiency

Some herbicide products start killing weeds within the first three hours after use. Other products are slow acting herbicides but they are more effective. The slow working herbicides soak deep into the soil so it can kill weeds from the roots up. This takes time but will prevent weeds from spreading or growing back.

There are seasonal herbicides that you spray on an area twice a year (during spring and fall). These are pre-emergent products that will last for an entire season. These herbicides are also rainproof so they won’t wash away. You’ll see on your product’s label that it will become rainproof after a certain amount of time (usually between 10 minutes and three hours) after spraying an area.

Herbicides used during the fall have cool weather performance so these weed killers can withstand lower temperatures.12 Best Weed Killers for Lawns - Just Grass And Nothing Else!

Package

Herbicides can come in convenient packaging that allows you to easily mix the product in a solvent or disperse it effortlessly over an area. Ready to use products have spray nozzles, such as Ortho Nutsedge Killer for Lawns, that allow you to apply the herbicide evenly in uniformed patterns over your lawn. The granulate herbicides come in bottles or sachets that can be poured into bottled of solvent easily.

You should also look at the net content of the product which is the amount of herbicide inside the packaging. As mentioned before small powdered sachets can be mixed in a large one-gallon bottle of water that can cover over 16000ft². This will also determine whether it’s value for money because the smaller sachets typically cost less than large bottles of liquid herbicides.

Shelf Life

All herbicides have a shelf life which is the amount of time you can store your product before it expires. You will find an expiration date on your packaging so be sure to check this before buying the product. Your herbicide should last you until the end of its shelf life but only if you take care of your product. Ensure that the herbicide is not exposed to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Herbicides must be stored in room temperature environments with no moisture.

Prices

Herbicides can cost anywhere between $15 and $44. It all depends on the net content & the quality of the herbicide as well as the packaging. There are effective products that cost less so if you’re looking for a versatile herbicide that’s not expensive then the Ortho Nutsedge killer for lawns can work for you. It only costs $14.99 for a 32oz ready to use solution. The bottle has an integrated spray nozzle so you can apply the herbicide on an area effectively, so even though it’s cheap, it’s value for money.

Remember it’s not the priciest that’s necessarily the best: make sure other features match your need before you buy.

Weed killer for lawns appliance tips

Depending on whether it’s a ready to use formula or a substance you have to mix there are different ways to apply weed killer to your lawn. In this next section, we will give you complete guidelines on how to apply your weed killer to your lawn according to the type of herbicide it is.

Liquid Ready to Use Herbicides

As mentioned before liquid herbicide can come in a bottle that has a spray nozzle to help you apply the product. Read the instructions to check when it’s the best time to use the herbicide and how much of it is required to kill the weeds.12 Best Weed Killers for Lawns - Just Grass And Nothing Else!Most bottles with nozzles allow you to simply twist the cap on the nozzle to start using it. Test the spray patterns by spraying the product onto concrete. If you are happy with how the product is dispersed, start applying the herbicide directly onto the weeds.

It should be noted that not all ready to use liquid weed killers are rainproof. So check the label to see whether the liquid can withstand water before applying it to the weeds. The best time to apply this type of herbicide is between late morning and afternoon when the plants absorb more water. Ready to use herbicides are typically post-emergent products so they will be applied to weeds that have already sprouted.

Applying Granulated Weed Killers

Herbicides that are granulated can be pre-emergent products that are applied to lawns twice a year to prevent weeds from growing. These types of weed killers can be for industrial use on farms and fields or residential lawns. You’ll need an extra device called a spreader to apply a granulated weed killer evenly to your lawn.

A spreader is a device that resembles a wheelbarrow. The weed killer granulates are poured into the top of the device and as you move it around your yard it sprinkles the herbicide over your lawn. In order for this type of weed killer to work, you must mow your lawn first before applying the herbicide. After you’ve applied the weed killer to your lawn you must water your garden lightly so that the herbicide can mix with the liquid and seep into the soil.

The best time to apply these types of herbicides is in the late afternoon when the sun starts to go down. This ensures that the water doesn’t evaporate. These types of herbicides are applied at the beginning of spring and fall. Check whether this weed killer is suitable for St Augustine or other sensitive lawns so that it doesn’t destroy your grass.

Mixing Herbicides

Some herbicides require you to mix the weed killer with a solvent such as water. Before you mix your herbicide check the label to see what the ratios are. You must add the exact ratios stipulated on the label because herbicides have various additives that will only work if the product is mixed correctly. Mixing the weed killer in too much water will dilute the herbicide and it will lose its chemical effects.

Now it’s time to calculate the amount of herbicide needed. There will be mixing instructions on your label so follow these guides for safety precautions.

It’s important to use a container that’s convenient to use and that will help you apply the herbicide correctly to the weeds. There are five types of weed killer sprayers that you can use:

  • Liquid Sprayers: This is the most common type of weed killer sprayer. They come in many varieties but the most prevalent design is a container with a long flexible hose and a wand. The flexible hose allows you to maneuver the piece so that you can apply the weed killer to the required areas where there are weeds. It will allow you to easily avoid the sensitive grass sections of your lawn. The wand will either deliver a fine spray or a coarse spray. You want to use a coarse spray in areas that need to be drenched in herbicide. A fine spray is ideal for areas that require controlled application in gardens with flowerbeds and vegetable patches you don’t want the herbicide to touch.
  • Gas powered sprayer: A gas sprayer is a powerful device that is used for larger properties that need herbicides to be applied quickly and evenly. The herbicide is put into a large tank and gas is used to push the weed killer out through a nozzle in bursts when you pull a trigger. It’s used for severe weed problems in fields, commercial properties and residential lawns.
  • Air Sprayer: Here is a device that doesn’t use chemical liquids. The air sprayer allows you to apply powdered herbicides to kill weeds and it’s used for delicate tasks. An air sprayer can apply weed killer to areas around flowerbeds and sensitive lawns.
  • Compression Tank: The compression tank is similar to liquid sprayers. The only difference is this sprayer operates with a compression tank whereas a liquid sprayer may simply come in a bottle or container with a spray nozzle or hose. These sprayers have a hand operated trigger that builds compression in the tank to allow a continuous stream of weed killer to be dispersed through a wand. The wand has a design that allows you to twist it to switch the device on or off.
  • Backpack weed sprayer: This weed killer sprayer can be carried on your back because it comes with straps. It’s easier to carry and offers more control when you’re applying herbicides to your garden.

Some mild herbicides that you mix can be placed in a recycled spray bottle. If you are using a recycled spray bottle ensure you wash the container out thoroughly before pouring the mixed weed killer liquid into the jug. The reason for this is because if there are chemicals left over from whatever was in the recycled sprayer before it might create a hazardous gas when combined with the herbicide. So always makes sure you wash containers before pouring the weed killer into the bottle.

Using a recycled spray bottle will allow you to apply weed killer to small sections of your garden where you see growth occurring. It will help you avoid spraying your entire lawn with chemicals when it’s not required. It will also allow you to save on product because applying small amounts at a time will make your herbicide last longer.

Safety Features12 Best Weed Killers for Lawns - Just Grass And Nothing Else!

One important aspect to remember when applying herbicides to your garden is to follow the safety measures. The safety precautions you see on your label should never be taken lightly. These instructions are put in place to protect your health and to ensure the safety & wellbeing of the people and animals around you. Before applying your herbicide ensure you’re wearing the following safety gear:

    • A mouth and nose mask: If you’re working with a mild weed killer make sure you’re wearing something to cover your nose and mouth. The mask prevents chemicals from entering your nasal cavities and mouth. These protectors are similar to dust masks and are ideal when working with powdered weed killers.
    • Face mask: A facemask covers your entire face so that your eyes are protected as well as your mouth and nose. This protector is used as a safety precaution when dealing with liquid herbicides. The liquid chemicals can’t be absorbed into the mask because the protector is made from hard plastic.
    • Goggles: It’s advised that you wear goggles with a mouth mask so that chemicals don’t reach your eyes. Herbicides can damage your eyesight so ensure you’re always wearing goggles to prevent liquids or powdered herbicides from flying into your eyes.
    • Gloves: Some herbicides have acidic chemicals in them that can burn your skin. Always wear gloves when mixing the chemicals and applying it to your lawn to prevent injury from the weed killer you’re using. Don’t wear gloves made from fabric because liquid herbicides can be absorbed through them. Wear latex gloves when working with liquid or powdered weed killers.
    • Overalls: The chemicals can damage clothes and liquid herbicides can be absorbed into certain fabrics if you’re out working in the garden for a while. If you have a big property and you’re using a large sprayer to apply weed killer onto a lawn ensure you’re wearing protective clothing.

Some weed killers have a strong odor and the effects can last for a few days. After you’ve sprayed an area you should block it off so that pets and children keep away from the zone until the chemicals wear off. Organic herbicides are safer to use so consider a product that has all-natural ingredients if you have kids or pets.

It’s crucial that you mix the correct ratios of weed killer with a solvent because the fumes can be too strong and kill other living organisms around your lawn. You don’t want to destroy the natural habitat in your garden because it’s responsible for creating vibrant lawns, flowerbeds and vegetable patches.

You should avoid spraying weed killers near vegetable patches because the chemicals can be absorbed into the edible plants and it will be unsafe to eat. Before spraying your garden with a weed killer cover your vegetable patch with mesh or plastic wrapping to avoid the chemicals from settling on the edible plants.

Another safety precaution to adhere to is the product shelf life. When a weed killer has expired it can either be ineffective because the chemicals in the product have degraded over time, or it can become extremely toxic. The toxins developed in the herbicide can destroy your lawn and it can be extremely hazardous to your health. If you see that your herbicide has expired it’s best to throw the product away and purchase a new one.

 

FAQ

Are the alternatives of the commercial weed killers effective?

There are alternatives to commercial weed killers that have proven to be effective. But it might be slow to work and it takes a lot more effort. Alternatives to commercial weed killers are flame weeding which is done by burning the weeds with fire. This alternative can damage grass so people typically do this during the winter months when the grass turns brown. Other people opt for salt or vinegar but this may attract pests. Pulling the weeds out from the root can work but it’s not a permanent solution. Some roots may be left behind which can sprout new weeds. Perhaps you can use an organic herbicide instead to prevent damage to your lawn and the attraction of unwanted bugs such as termites or ants.

How long does it take to see the results?

It depends on what brand of weed killer you buy. Some products work within 10 minutes to three hours and others will only start to take effect in two weeks. The slow weed killers are typically pre-emergent products that prevent the growth of weeds so that they can’t germinate. Fast active herbicides are post-emergent products that kill weeds after they’ve grown and they work quickly to prevent photosynthesis so the plants can’t grow. Herbicides can be a dual-action product that works as a pre or post-emergent weed killer so you can use them all year round. Ensure you check your packaging to know what type of herbicide it is before buying it.

Are weed killers for lawns safe for pets?

No, not all weed killers for lawns are safe for pets. Some products have harmful chemical ingredients that shouldn’t be used near pets, vegetable patches or flowerbeds. Again, it’s advised to research what your herbicide contains to ensure the safety of your pets and children. If you want a product that’s safe to use around pets or children utilize an organic herbicide. An organic herbicide won’t have any harmful chemical ingredients. All-natural herbicides are excellent to use if you want to fertilize your lawn while eradicating weeds simultaneously. Organic herbicides will feed your grass nutrients while preventing weed growth.

Our verdict

Have you made a buying decision yet? To further assist you, our verdict would be to select between the three best weed killer for lawns on our list. The first product to consider would be our editor’s choice which is the Compare-N-Save herbicide. We love the Compare-N-Save weed killer because it can be used to eradicate broadleaf plants as well as grass-like weeds. It’s rainproof and starts killing weeds within the first three hours of application.

The second weed killer to consider is our best-valued product which is the Southern AG Amine. This product contains superior additives namely Dimethylamine salt and D-Dichlorophe noxyacetic acid that penetrates the weeds to kill them.

Lastly, we have our budget pick weed killer which is the Ortho Nutsedge. The price of this herbicide may be low but the brand doesn’t compromise on quality. The Ortho Nutsedge herbicide can kill over 50 species of weeds that are difficult to get rid of.

We hope that our reviews and buyer’s guide on the best weed killer for lawns gave you the information you needed to find an herbicide that works for you. So which weed killer will you be buying?

9,9
Total Score
Compare-N-Save Concentrate Grass and Weed Killer - Editor’s Choice
Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *