As you step into your yard, you’re greeted by an unwelcome sight: weeds sprouting up amidst your lush grass. It’s a frustrating problem many homeowners face, but the solution might be simpler than you think. A good weed and feed product can work wonders, and there are several high-quality options on the market. But which ones are worth your time and money? You’re about to find out. From Scotts Turf Builder to Espoma Organic, the best weed and feeds can transform your lawn in no time – but which one will reign supreme?
Contents
- Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3 Lawn Fertilizer
- BioAdvanced 5 In 1 Weed and Feed, Granules, 9.6LB
- Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Fertilizer
- Fairway Formula Spring Fertilizer Weed & Feed and Crabgrass Preventer
- Espoma Organic Weed Preventer-25 lb. CGP25, 25 lb
- Factors to Consider When Choosing Weed and Feeds
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3 Lawn Fertilizer
If you’re looking for a thorough lawn care solution that both kills existing weeds and fertilizes your lawn to prevent future growth, Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3 Lawn Fertilizer is the best choice for you.
This product covers 5,000 square feet, making it perfect for medium to large-sized lawns.
It controls over 50 listed lawn weeds, including clover, dandelion, and plantain, and feeds your lawn to thicken the grass and crowd out future weeds.
When applying, make sure to do so on a wet lawn when weeds are actively growing and daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 90°F.
With a 4.3 out of 5-star rating and over 30,000 ratings, you can trust that this product will get the job done.
Best For: Medium to large-sized lawn owners seeking a comprehensive lawn care solution to kill existing weeds and fertilize their lawn.
Pros:
- Effective in killing weeds and fertilizing the lawn
- Covers a large area of 5,000 square feet
- Has a high rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars with over 30,000 ratings
Cons:
- Can damage other plants, so caution is required when applying
- Not available for purchase in Florida
- Should not be applied to certain types of grass, such as St. Augustinegrass, Dichondra, Lippia, Carpetgrass, and Bentgrass
BioAdvanced 5 In 1 Weed and Feed, Granules, 9.6LB
For homeowners struggling to control tough weeds like dandelions, clovers, and black medic, BioAdvanced 5 In 1 Weed and Feed, Granules, 9.6LB is an excellent choice, as it not only kills these unwanted pests but also prevents new weeds from emerging for up to six months.
This 9.6-pound granular formula covers up to 4,000 square feet and is designed to kill large crabgrass and prevent new crabgrass from emerging.
You’ll also notice your lawn looking healthier and greener, thanks to the fertilizer formula that provides quick greening and long-lasting feeding.
With an impressive 4.1-star rating from over 1,200 customers, this product is a reliable solution for your weed and feed needs.
Best For: Homeowners struggling to control tough weeds like dandelions, clovers, and black medic in their lawns.
Pros:
- Kills tough weeds, including dandelions, clovers, and black medic
- Prevents new weeds from emerging for up to 6 months
- Fertilizer formula feeds the lawn for quick greening and long-lasting feeding
Cons:
- Some users have reported issues with spreader performance
- Product effectiveness may vary depending on lawn conditions
- No specific information on the duration of the warranty is provided
Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Fertilizer
If you’re a Southern lawn owner struggling to control weeds and fire ants while keeping your grass healthy and strong, you’ll want to choose Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Fertilizer.
This 3-in-1 formula is specifically designed for Southern grass types, including St. Augustinegrass, Centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, and Carpetgrass.
It kills listed weeds like dandelion, clover, and henbit, and prevents and kills fire ants for up to 6 months.
The fertilizer also feeds and strengthens your lawn against Southern stresses like heat and drought.
With a coverage of 8,000 square feet, you can apply it using a Scotts spreader, following the recommended settings.
After application, water it in immediately, and keep people and pets away until the surface is dry.
Best For: Southern lawn owners struggling to control weeds and fire ants while keeping their grass healthy and strong.
Pros:
- Kills listed weeds like dandelion, clover, and henbit, and prevents and kills fire ants for up to 6 months.
- Fertilizes and strengthens your lawn against Southern stresses like heat and drought.
- Covers a large area of 8,000 square feet with easy application using a Scotts spreader.
Cons:
- Requires immediate watering-in after application, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- May not be suitable for lawn owners with pets or young children, as people and pets should be kept away until the surface is dry.
- Does not specify if it is environmentally friendly or organic, which may be a concern for some users.
Fairway Formula Spring Fertilizer Weed & Feed and Crabgrass Preventer
Homeowners seeking a triple-threat lawn solution that simultaneously fertilizes, kills broadleaf weeds, and prevents crabgrass will find their ideal match in the Fairway Formula Spring Fertilizer Weed & Feed and Crabgrass Preventer.
This versatile product performs three tasks in one, allowing you to tackle multiple lawn care tasks at once.
It effectively kills over 200 weeds, prevents and destroys crabgrass up to four weeks after germination, and provides continuous feeding for up to 12 weeks.
Suitable for established lawns with various grass types, including bahiagrass, bermudagrass, and Kentucky bluegrass, this product is a convenient and efficient solution for your lawn care needs.
Best For: Homeowners seeking a triple-threat lawn solution that simultaneously fertilizes, kills broadleaf weeds, and prevents crabgrass.
Pros:
- Performs three tasks in one: fertilizes, kills broadleaf weeds, and prevents crabgrass
- Effective on over 200 weeds and prevents crabgrass up to 4 weeks after germination
- Provides continuous feeding for up to 12 weeks and suitable for various grass types
Cons:
- No specific information on the product’s environmental impact
- May not be effective on newly seeded or newly sodded lawns
- No information on the product’s safety around pets or children
Espoma Organic Weed Preventer-25 lb. CGP25, 25 lb
If you’re seeking an all-natural, child- and pet-friendly solution to prevent weeds and feed your lawn simultaneously, the Espoma Organic Weed Preventer-25 lb. CGP25 is an excellent choice, especially for those with smaller to medium-sized lawns.
This product is made from corn gluten meal, a natural by-product of cornstarch manufacturing.
It not only prevents weeds like dandelions and crabgrass but also provides a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer, promoting a deep green color.
With a coverage area of 1,250 sq. ft., you can easily apply this granular formula using a spreader, and then water heavily to activate the gluten dissolves.
As an added benefit, your kids and pets can safely play on the lawn after application.
Best For: Those with smaller to medium-sized lawns seeking an all-natural, child- and pet-friendly solution to prevent weeds and feed their lawn simultaneously.
Pros:
- All-natural and child- and pet-friendly
- Prevents weeds like dandelions and crabgrass
- Provides a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer, promoting a deep green color
Cons:
- May require patience to see results
- Needs to be applied at the right time and in the right amount to achieve desired results
- May need to use multiple bags for larger lawns
Factors to Consider When Choosing Weed and Feeds
When choosing the right weed and feed for your lawn, you’ll want to ponder several key factors.
You’ll need to think about the size of your lawn, the types of weeds you’re dealing with, and the specific climate and region you’re in.
Lawn Size Considerations
You’ll need to think about the size of your lawn when selecting a weed and feed product, as different formulations are designed to cover varying square footage. Depending on the size of your lawn, you may need to purchase multiple bags of product or opt for a more cost-effective option that covers a larger area.
For instance, if you have a large lawn, a product that covers 8,000 square feet might be a better value than one that only covers 4,000 square feet.
To determine how much product you need, measure your lawn’s length and width in feet, then multiply the two numbers together to get the total square footage. This will help you calculate the correct amount of product to buy.
Be sure to follow the product’s instructions for application rates and spreader settings to facilitate accurate coverage and effective weed control. Don’t underestimate or overestimate the size of your lawn, as this can lead to inadequate coverage or wasted product.
Weed Type Variations
With your lawn’s size in mind, now it’s time to identify the types of weeds that are plaguing your lawn, as different species require targeted treatments to guarantee effective control.
You’ll need to determine which types of weeds are present, as different species require specific treatments. For instance, if you have crabgrass, you’ll need a preventer to stop it from germinating. Products containing quinclorac or dithiopyr are effective in preventing crabgrass growth.
If you have broadleaf weeds like chickweed, henbit, or oxalis, products containing 2,4-D, dicamba, or mecoprop can help control them. On the other hand, grassy weeds like quackgrass and goosegrass require different treatments.
You’ll also need to take into account the type of grass you have, as some weeds, like Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass, are more resistant to certain herbicides.
Understanding the type of weeds present in your lawn and choosing a product that targets those specific weeds is essential for effective weed control and minimizing damage to your lawn. By identifying the types of weeds you’re dealing with, you can choose a weed and feed product that’s tailored to your lawn’s specific needs, and it’s vital that you examine the type of weeds you have before making a decision.
Climate and Region
Different climate conditions in your region, including temperature, humidity, and sunlight, directly impact the type of weeds that grow in your lawn and the effectiveness of weed and feed products.
Southern regions, with their warm temperatures and high humidity, are a haven for warm-season weeds like crabgrass, dallisgrass, and goosegrass. On the other hand, northern regions, with their cooler temperatures and shorter growing seasons, are prone to cool-season weeds like dandelions, clover, and plantain.
When choosing a weed and feed product, take into account your region’s specific climate conditions. Products that target warm-season weeds might be more effective in southern regions, while products that target cool-season weeds might be more suitable for northern regions.
Additionally, regional factors like soil type, rainfall, and sunlight exposure also influence the type of weeds that grow and the effectiveness of weed and feed products. By understanding the local climate and region-specific weed types, you can select the most effective weed and feed product for your lawn.
Lawn Type Compatibility
When selecting a weed and feed product, consider your lawn’s specific type, as not all products are compatible with every grass variety.
You’ll want to choose a product formulated for your lawn type, whether it’s St. Augustinegrass, Centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, or Carpetgrass.
If you live in the South, you’ll need a product designed for Southern grass types, while those in the North will require a product suited for Northern grass types.
Be cautious, as some products may not be suitable for certain grass types, such as St. Augustinegrass (including Floratam), Dichondra, Lippia, Carpetgrass, and Bentgrass.
Always check the product label for specific exclusions.
Warm-season grasses, like Bermudagrass, and cool-season grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass, require different formulations, so make sure you choose a product tailored to your grass type.
Remember, it’s vital to read and follow the product label instructions to verify the product is safe for your lawn type and to achieve the desired results.
Application Timing
To get the most out of your weed and feed product, you need to apply it at the right time, as timing is essential in effectively eliminating weeds and fertilizing your lawn.
You should apply these products when weeds are actively growing, usually in spring or early summer, to maximize their effectiveness. Additionally, make sure to apply them when daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 90°F, as this allows for peak weed control and fertilizer absorption.
Avoid applying weed and feed products during extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, drought, or high winds, as this can reduce their effectiveness.
If you’re using a product that prevents crabgrass, apply it 4-6 weeks before crabgrass germinates, typically in early spring, to prevent its growth. Always follow the product’s instructions and recommended application timings to guarantee the best results and minimize potential risks to people, pets, and the environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Weed and Feed on Newly Seeded Lawns?
You’re wondering if it’s safe to use weed and feed on newly seeded lawns. The answer is no, you shouldn’t, as it can harm or even kill new grass, and it’s best to wait until it’s fully established.
How Long Does It Take to See Results From Weed and Feed?
You’ll start noticing results from weed and feed in about 2-4 weeks, depending on weather and lawn conditions. For instance, after applying weed and feed to your lawn, you’ll see dandelions and clover start to wither away, making way for a lusher, greener lawn.
Can I Use Weed and Feed on Gardens or Flower Beds?
You’re wondering if you can use weed and feed on your gardens or flower beds. Generally, it’s not recommended, as these products can harm desirable plants and contaminate soil and water.
Are Weed and Feeds Safe for Pets and Children?
You’re right to wonder if weed and feeds are safe for your pets and kids. Unfortunately, these products can be toxic to them, so it’s best to keep them away or choose pet-friendly alternatives.
Can I Mix Weed and Feed With Other Lawn Care Products?
“Did you know 70% of homeowners use multiple lawn care products simultaneously? When mixing weed and feed with other products, you’ll want to exercise caution, as incompatible combos can harm your lawn or even create toxic fumes, so always read labels carefully.”
Conclusion
As you stand victorious on your lush, weed-free lawn, remember that maintaining this oasis requires ongoing effort.
Think of weeds as unwanted guests, constantly knocking on your lawn’s door.
Stay one step ahead with the right weed and feed product, and your grass will be the envy of the neighborhood.
With the top five weed and feeds at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to keep those unwanted visitors at bay, ensuring your lawn remains a serene haven.
