As you gaze out at your lawn, you can’t help but notice the unsightly patches of crabgrass spreading their way across your once-manicured lawn. You’re not alone in this struggle, and fortunately, there are effective solutions available. You’re about to discover the top 6 crabgrass killers that’ll help you regain control of your outdoor space. From fast-acting formulas to long-lasting preventatives, these products have been tried and tested to guarantee your lawn stays healthy and crabgrass-free. But which one is right for you?
Contents
- BioAdvanced Lawn Weed & Crabgrass Killer
- BioAdvanced 5 In 1 Weed and Feed, Granules, 9.6LB
- Natria Grass and Weed Control with Root Kill, Ready-to-Use, 1.3 Gal
- Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer1, 5 lb.
- Preen 2464064 Crabgrass Control Lawn, 15 lb, Covers 5,000 sq. ft
- BioAdvanced All-In-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer I, Concentrate, 40 oz
- Factors to Consider When Choosing Crabgrass Killers
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
BioAdvanced Lawn Weed & Crabgrass Killer
If you’re looking for a reliable solution to eradicate over 200 broadleaf weeds, including crabgrass, without harming your lawn, BioAdvanced Lawn Weed & Crabgrass Killer is the best choice for homeowners with Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, or Bermudagrass lawns.
This product’s exclusive formula guarantees that even the toughest weeds are killed down to the root, giving you a weed-free lawn.
With its rainproof formula, you don’t have to worry about the rain washing away the product’s effectiveness.
One application can treat up to 5,000 square feet, making it a convenient solution for larger lawns.
Remember to follow the instructions carefully and take necessary precautions, such as wearing gloves and a mask, to certify safe and effective application.
Best For: Homeowners with Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, or Bermudagrass lawns who want to eradicate over 200 broadleaf weeds, including crabgrass, without harming their lawn.
Pros:
- Kills over 200 broadleaf weeds, including crabgrass, down to the root without harming the lawn
- Rainproof in just one hour after application
- Treats up to 5,000 square feet, making it a convenient solution for larger lawns
Cons:
- Not for sale in HI & NY
- Requires following instructions carefully and taking precautions, such as wearing gloves and a mask, to avoid damaging the lawn or experiencing adverse effects
- Some users experienced issues with the product not killing crabgrass
BioAdvanced 5 In 1 Weed and Feed, Granules, 9.6LB
For homeowners seeking a thorough solution to tackle tough weeds like dandelions, clovers, and black medic, while also fertilizing their lawn, BioAdvanced 5 In 1 Weed and Feed, Granules, 9.6LB is an ideal choice.
This product not only kills existing weeds but also prevents new ones from emerging for up to six months.
You’ll also get the added benefit of a fertilizer that promotes quick greening, long-lasting feeding, and stronger turf.
With a coverage area of 4,000 square feet, you can treat a decent-sized lawn with just one application.
Plus, the granular formula is easy to apply, and you can use it in spring or early summer, even if crabgrass and weeds have already started growing.
With a 4.1-star rating from over 1,200 customers, you can trust that this product will deliver on its promises.
Best For: Homeowners seeking a comprehensive solution to kill tough weeds and fertilize their lawn.
Pros:
- Kills tough weeds, including dandelions, clovers, and black medic, and prevents new weeds from emerging for up to six months.
- Fertilizer formula promotes quick greening, long-lasting feeding, and stronger turf.
- Easy to apply granular formula covers up to 4,000 square feet.
Cons:
- Some users have reported issues with spreader performance.
- Product effectiveness may vary depending on lawn type and condition.
- Some users have reported inconsistent results in killing certain types of weeds.
Natria Grass and Weed Control with Root Kill, Ready-to-Use, 1.3 Gal
Those seeking a convenient, ready-to-use solution to eradicate crabgrass and other unwanted weeds will appreciate the Natria Grass and Weed Control with Root Kill, Ready-to-Use, 1.3 Gal.
This product is designed to kill listed weeds and grasses, including crabgrass, poison ivy, and clover, to the root within minutes.
You’ll start seeing results in as little as 24 hours. You can use it on flower beds, driveways, sidewalks, and more, without worrying about stains.
The Ergo-Grip sprayer is comfortable to hold and easy to use.
With an EPA registration number and a non-staining formula, you can trust this product to get the job done.
As a bonus, it’s made in the USA and has a 3.9-star rating from over 1,200 customers.
Best For: Homeowners and gardeners seeking a convenient and effective solution to eradicate unwanted weeds and grasses from their lawns, gardens, and outdoor spaces.
Pros:
- Kills weeds and grasses to the root within minutes, with results visible in as little as 24 hours
- Can be used on various surfaces, including flower beds, driveways, sidewalks, and patios, without staining
- Features an Ergo-Grip sprayer that is comfortable to hold and easy to use
Cons:
- Some customers have reported that the sprayer can be prone to breaking or malfunctioning
- May not be as effective as other products, such as Roundup, according to some customer reviews
- Can potentially harm or kill desirable lawn grass, if not used carefully
Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer1, 5 lb.
You’ll get the best results from Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer1, 5 lb. if you’re looking for a reliable solution that prevents weeds for up to three months with just one application.
This product is designed to make your life easier, with an easy-to-use applicator that allows you to tackle weeds in your garden, around flowers, vegetables, roses, ground covers, shrubs, and trees.
The formula is gentle on your plants, but tough on weeds, ensuring they don’t come back for a while.
With a 4.4-star rating and over 974 customer reviews, you can trust that this product delivers.
Plus, it’s made in the USA and comes with a manufacturer’s warranty, giving you peace of mind.
Best For: Gardeners and homeowners who want a reliable and easy-to-use solution to prevent weeds in their gardens, around flowers, vegetables, roses, ground covers, shrubs, and trees.
Pros:
- Prevents weeds for up to 3 months with one application
- Easy-to-use applicator makes it simple to apply the product
- Gentle on plants, but tough on weeds, ensuring they don’t come back for a while
Cons:
- No cons mentioned in the product description or customer reviews
- No cons mentioned in the product description or customer reviews
- No cons mentioned in the product description or customer reviews
Preen 2464064 Crabgrass Control Lawn, 15 lb, Covers 5,000 sq. ft
If you’re looking for a reliable crabgrass preventer that covers a large area, the Preen 2464064 Crabgrass Control Lawn is your best bet, effectively shielding 5,000 square feet of lawn from unwanted weeds for up to four months.
This 15-pound product is designed to prevent crabgrass and other grassy and broadleaf weeds from taking over your lawn.
It can be applied later in spring for season-long control of tough weeds, and it’s effective on many types of cool and warm season grasses.
With an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars from 328 customer reviews, you can trust that this product will get the job done.
Just remember to follow the application instructions and wait three months before planting grass seed for maximum results.
Best For: Homeowners with established lawns and ornamentals looking for a reliable crabgrass preventer that covers a large area.
Pros:
- Effective in preventing crabgrass and other grassy and broadleaf weeds for up to 4 months
- Can be applied later in spring for season-long control of tough weeds
- Covers a large area of 5,000 square feet with a single 15-pound product
Cons:
- Requires waiting three months before planting grass seed for optimal results
- May not be suitable for newly seeded or sodded lawns
- May have varying effectiveness on different types of grasses or in different climates
BioAdvanced All-In-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer I, Concentrate, 40 oz
For homeowners struggling to control a broad range of weeds, including crabgrass, the BioAdvanced All-In-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer I, Concentrate, 40 oz is an excellent choice, killing over 200 listed broadleaf weeds and crabgrass without harming your lawn.
This all-in-one formula is rainproof in just one hour and features a smart track marker that shows you exactly which areas you’ve treated.
You’ll appreciate how easy it’s to use, and how well it clears out pesky weeds like clover and dandelion.
While it may take multiple applications to get the best results, you’ll be pleased with how it helps your grass fill in and thrive.
Just be sure to follow the concentration instructions carefully to avoid harming your grass.
Best For: Homeowners struggling to control a broad range of weeds, including crabgrass, who want an easy-to-use and effective solution that won’t harm their lawn.
Pros:
- Kills over 200 listed broadleaf weeds and crabgrass without harming the lawn
- Easy to use and clears out pesky weeds like clover and dandelion
- Helps grass fill in and thrive
Cons:
- Sprayer issues, including thin and flimsy tubing, poor quality, and prone to cracking
- Difficulty using the sprayer, especially with the comfort wand
- Product doesn’t stick to weeds well, resulting in drips and streams
Factors to Consider When Choosing Crabgrass Killers
When selecting a crabgrass killer, you’ll want to verify several key factors to guarantee you’re getting the right product for your lawn.
You’ll need to ponder the type of weeds you’re dealing with, as well as the type of lawn you have, to choose a killer that’s compatible and effective.
Weed Type Considerations
To effectively tackle your weed problem, you need to examine the type of weed you’re dealing with, as different species require different control methods.
Crabgrass, an annual grassy weed, can be controlled with pre-emergent herbicides that create a barrier on the soil surface, preventing seed germination. However, if you’re dealing with broadleaf weeds like dandelion or clover, you’ll need a post-emergent herbicide that can be applied directly to the foliage.
Identifying the type of weed infestation is vital to choose the most effective herbicide and avoid damaging desirable vegetation.
Some herbicides, like quinclorac, are selective and can target specific weeds like crabgrass without harming turfgrass. On the other hand, non-selective herbicides like glyphosate can kill all vegetation, so using caution is necessary.
Lawn Type Compatibility
Your lawn type plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of a crabgrass killer, as different products are formulated to work safely and efficiently on specific grass species.
When choosing a crabgrass killer, it’s imperative to think about your lawn type to avoid damage. For instance, if you have a cool-season grass like Ryegrass or Tall Fescue, you’ll need a product designed for those specific grasses.
On the other hand, if you have a warm-season grass like Bermudagrass or Zoysiagrass, you’ll need a product suitable for those grasses.
If you have a newly seeded or sodded lawn, you’ll need a crabgrass killer specifically designed for young lawns.
Additionally, if your lawn has a mix of grass types, such as a blend of Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass, you’ll need a product that’s compatible with multiple grass species.
Always read and follow the product label instructions carefully to guarantee the crabgrass killer is used safely and effectively on your specific lawn type.
Active Ingredient Choice
With the right crabgrass killer, you’re not just killing weeds, you’re also protecting your lawn, which makes the active ingredient choice a critical factor in the selection process.
The active ingredient is the core component that determines the product’s effectiveness, safety, and potential environmental impact.
When choosing a crabgrass killer, you’ll encounter various active ingredients, each with its strengths and weaknesses.
Some popular active ingredients include quinclorac, 2,4-D, and dicamba.
Quinclorac is a selective herbicide that targets crabgrass while sparing desirable grasses.
2,4-D is a broadleaf herbicide effective against a wide range of weeds, but it may require repeated applications.
Dicamba is another popular option, known for its fast-acting results, but it can be risky for certain grass types.
When evaluating active ingredients, consider factors like your lawn type, the severity of the infestation, and any environmental concerns.
Be sure to read product labels carefully and follow instructions to guarantee the safe and effective use of your chosen crabgrass killer.
Coverage Area Needs
You’ll need to calculate the total square footage of your lawn to determine the ideal coverage area for your crabgrass killer. This is vital because different products are designed to cover varying areas, and you don’t want to end up with a product that can’t tackle your entire lawn.
Measure your lawn’s length and width, and multiply them together to get the total square footage. Consider the density of the crabgrass infestation as well – if it’s widespread, you’ll need a product that can cover more ground.
When checking the product label, look for the recommended coverage area, usually listed in square feet. Make sure it aligns with your lawn’s size to confirm you’re getting the right amount of product.
Some products come in concentrates, which require mixing with water before application. In these cases, the coverage area may vary depending on the dilution ratio. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid under- or over-treating your lawn.
Application Timing Matters
When it comes to choosing the right crabgrass killer, timing is crucial, as applying these products at the wrong time can damage your lawn or reduce their effectiveness.
You should avoid applying crabgrass killers during the seasonal shifts (Early September through November and Late March through May) to prevent damaging your lawn.
For peak results, apply these products when the season’s weeds are first up, but haven’t produced blooms or seeds yet. Crabgrass killers are most effective when applied to actively growing turf to target hard-to-kill weeds.
If you’ve already missed the ideal timing, you can still apply crabgrass killers in the spring or early summer, even if crabgrass and weeds have already sprouted, to target weeds before they produce seeds.
Remember, the timing of application may vary depending on the type of crabgrass killer and the specific weed growth stage, so carefully follow the product’s instructions.
Product Form Preference
As you’ve got your application timing down, it’s time to weigh the product form that best fits your lawn care needs.
When it comes to choosing a crabgrass killer, you’ve got three main options: sprays, granules, and concentrates. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, so bear in mind your specific lawn care requirements.
Sprays are ideal for spot treatments and small areas, allowing you to target specific weeds with precision.
Granules, on the other hand, are better suited for larger lawns, providing longer-lasting results and preventative control.
Concentrates offer flexibility in regards to application rates and methods, making them a cost-effective option. However, they may require more preparation and mixing before use.
Ultimately, the preferred product form depends on the size of your lawn, the type of crabgrass, and your personal comfort with different application methods.
Safety Precautions Necessary
When it comes to choosing a crabgrass killer, safety should be a top priority. You’ll want to weigh the potential risks associated with each product, including the toxicity of the active ingredients and the potential for drift or overspray.
Before applying a crabgrass killer, make sure to read the label carefully and follow the instructions to the letter.
Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves, gloves, and eye protection, to minimize skin contact and exposure. Keep pets and children away from the treated area until the product has fully dried or as directed on the label.
Additionally, take care to avoid spraying desirable plants, as many crabgrass killers can be harmful to other vegetation.
If you’re unsure about the safety of a particular product or have concerns about its use, examine the product’s literature or consult with a gardening expert or local nursery professional for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Crabgrass Killers on Newly Seeded Lawns?
You shouldn’t use crabgrass killers on newly seeded lawns, as they can harm or kill new grass seedlings. Wait until your new lawn is mature, usually after 3-4 mowings, before applying any herbicides.
How Long Does It Take for Crabgrass Killers to Start Working?
“Silky strands of stubborn crabgrass meet their match as you wonder, ‘How long until these killers kick in?’ Typically, you’ll start seeing results within 7-14 days, but this timeframe can vary depending on the product and your lawn’s specific conditions.”
Are Crabgrass Killers Safe for Pets and Children?
You’re right to wonder if lawn care products are safe for your loved ones. Typically, pet and child safety depend on the product’s active ingredients and your supervision.
Can I Mix Crabgrass Killers With Other Lawn Care Products?
As you navigate the complex landscape of lawn care, a critical detour arises: can you mix crabgrass killers with other products? Generally, it’s not recommended, as combining chemicals can create a toxic cocktail, harming your lawn and the environment.
Do Crabgrass Killers Also Kill Other Types of Weeds?
When you use a weed killer, you’ll find it often targets multiple types of weeds, not just crabgrass. You’ll typically see a list of controlled weeds on the product label, so be sure to check that before applying.
Conclusion
You’ve made it to the final showdown – the battle against crabgrass.
With these top 6 crabgrass killers, you’re one step away from a lush, weed-free lawn.
But, will you choose the all-in-one solution or the preventative powerhouse?
The fate of your lawn hangs in the balance.
Make your move, and get ready to reap the rewards of a crabgrass-free paradise.
