Let’s say you’ve spent all weekend meticulously mowing and edging your lawn, only to notice a pesky patch of crabgrass sprouting up in the corner. You’re not alone – crabgrass is a common nuisance that can quickly take over an otherwise pristine lawn. But fear not! With the right crabgrass killer, you can reclaim your outdoor space and enjoy a lush, weed-free landscape. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your needs. That’s why we’ve narrowed it down to the top 6 crabgrass killers on the market – and you’ll want to see which ones made the cut.
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 that can tackle over 200 broadleaf weeds, including crabgrass, without harming your lawn, BioAdvanced Lawn Weed & Crabgrass Killer is the ideal choice.
This product is specifically designed to eliminate weeds down to the root, ensuring they don’t come back. With its exclusive formula, you can expect to see results quickly.
Plus, it’s rainproof in just one hour after application, making it a convenient option.
The product can be used on various lawn types, including Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Bermudagrass, and can treat up to 5,000 square feet.
With an impressive 4.0-star rating from over 1,171 customers, you can trust that this product delivers on its promises.
Best For: Those who want to eliminate over 200 broadleaf weeds, including crabgrass, without harming their lawn and need a reliable solution that works quickly.
Pros:
- Kills over 200 broadleaf weeds, including crabgrass, without harming the lawn
- Rainproof in just one hour after application
- Can be used on various lawn types, including Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Bermudagrass
Cons:
- Not for sale in HI & NY
- Can be harmful if not used with proper precautions, such as wearing gloves and a mask
- Some users have reported issues with the product not killing crabgrass
BioAdvanced 5 In 1 Weed and Feed, Granules, 9.6LB
For homeowners seeking a complete solution to tackle tough weeds and fertilize their lawn simultaneously, BioAdvanced 5 In 1 Weed and Feed, Granules, 9.6LB is an excellent choice, capable of killing large crabgrass and preventing new weeds from emerging for up to six months.
This product not only eliminates dandelions, clovers, and black medic, but also fertilizes your lawn for quick greening and stronger turf.
With its granular formula, you can treat up to 4,000 square feet of lawn, making it an efficient solution for larger lawns.
As you apply the product to actively growing turf, you can expect to see results quickly, and with its manufacturer’s warranty, you can have peace of mind.
Best For: Homeowners with larger lawns seeking a comprehensive solution to kill tough weeds and fertilize their lawn simultaneously.
Pros:
- Kills tough weeds, including dandelions, clovers, and black medic, and prevents new weeds from emerging for up to 6 months
- Fertilizer formula feeds the lawn for quick greening, long-lasting feeding, and stronger turf
- Treats up to 4,000 square feet of lawn, making it an efficient solution for larger lawns
Cons:
- Some users have reported issues with spreader performance
- Product effectiveness may vary depending on lawn conditions and weed types
- May not be as effective for smaller lawns or spot treatments
Natria Grass and Weed Control with Root Kill, Ready-to-Use, 1.3 Gal
This ready-to-use, 1.3-gallon solution is the best choice for homeowners seeking a fast and effective way to kill listed weeds and grasses, including crabgrass, poison ivy, and clover, with results in as little as 24 hours.
You’ll appreciate the exclusive formula that kills to the root within minutes, making it an excellent option for areas like flower beds, driveways, sidewalks, and patios.
The non-staining formula and ergonomic sprayer design make it easy to use and minimize mess.
With an active ingredient list that includes ammoniated soap of fatty acids and maleic hydrazide, you can trust that this product will get the job done.
Best For: Homeowners seeking a fast and effective way to kill listed weeds and grasses in areas like flower beds, driveways, sidewalks, and patios.
Pros:
- Kills weeds quickly and effectively, with results in as little as 24 hours
- Has a non-staining formula that minimizes mess
- Has an ergonomic sprayer design that makes it easy to use
Cons:
- Some customers have reported that the sprayer doesn’t last long
- May not be as effective as other products, such as Roundup
- Can kill lawn grass, so use with caution
Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer1, 5 lb.
Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer1, 5 lb. is a reliable solution that prevents weeds for up to 3 months with just one application.
This product is easy to use, and its formula prevents weeds from growing without harming your plants.
You can use it around flowers, vegetables, roses, ground covers, shrubs, and trees, making it a versatile option for your garden.
With a coverage area of 800 square feet, you can protect a significant portion of your outdoor space.
The 5-pound container is compact, measuring 4.12 x 7.5 x 9.8 inches, making it easy to store when not in use.
Best For: Homeowners and gardeners 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 just one application
- Easy to use and apply
- Can be used around a variety of plants, including flowers, vegetables, roses, ground covers, shrubs, and trees
Cons:
- No specific information available on the product’s ingredients or potential environmental impact
- May not be as effective in areas with heavy weed growth or in regions with high temperatures
- No guarantee of 100% weed prevention, as results may vary depending on individual conditions
Preen 2464064 Crabgrass Control Lawn, 15 lb, Covers 5,000 sq. ft
If you’re struggling to keep crabgrass at bay in your lawn, Preen 2464064 Crabgrass Control Lawn is an excellent choice, as it prevents crabgrass and other weeds for up to 4 months.
With its 15-pound weight and ability to cover 5,000 square feet, you’ll be able to tackle large areas with ease.
This product is effective on many types of cool and warm season grasses, making it a versatile solution for your lawn care needs.
Additionally, it provides post-emergence control of seedling crabgrass for up to 4 weeks, giving you extra protection against these pesky weeds.
Best For: Homeowners with large lawns who struggle to control crabgrass and other weeds.
Pros:
- Prevents crabgrass and other weeds for up to 4 months
- Effective on many types of cool and warm season grasses
- 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 lawns
- May require additional applications for optimal results
BioAdvanced All-In-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer I, Concentrate, 40 oz
For homeowners seeking a thorough solution to tackle a broad range of weeds, including crabgrass, the BioAdvanced All-In-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer I, Concentrate, 40 oz is a top contender, thanks to its all-in-one formula that kills over 200 listed broadleaf weeds without harming the lawn.
You’ll appreciate its SmartTrack marker that shows you which weeds you’ve treated, and its rainproof protection that kicks in just one hour after application.
While it may take some time to see results, multiple applications can lead to a weed-free lawn.
Just be careful when using the sprayer, as some users have reported issues with its quality and performance.
Best For: Homeowners seeking a thorough solution to tackle a broad range of weeds, including crabgrass.
Pros:
- Kills over 200 listed broadleaf weeds, including crabgrass, without harming the lawn
- Features a SmartTrack marker that shows which weeds have been treated
- Offers rainproof protection in just one hour after application
Cons:
- Sprayer issues, such as 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 you’re on the hunt for the perfect crabgrass killer, you’ll want to think carefully about a few key factors to guarantee you get the best results for your lawn.
You’ll need to ponder the type of lawn you have, what types of weeds you’re trying to eliminate, and when to apply the product for maximum effectiveness.
Lawn Type Compatibility
You’ll want to weigh the specific needs of your lawn when selecting a crabgrass killer, as different types of grass react differently to these products.
For instance, Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Bermudagrass have varying levels of tolerance to crabgrass killers, so it’s vital to choose a product compatible with your lawn type. Some crabgrass killers are formulated specifically for warm-season or cool-season grasses, so make sure to select a product suitable for your lawn’s climate.
Additionally, consider the age and density of your lawn.
If you’ve recently seeded or sodded your lawn, you’ll need to check the product’s instructions for any waiting periods before application. Lawn density and thickness can also impact the effectiveness of crabgrass killers, so you may need to apply the product more frequently or in repeated doses for ideal results.
Always read and follow the product label instructions to safeguard the crabgrass killer is used safely and effectively on your specific lawn type.
Weed Type Coverage
As you narrow down your search for the ideal crabgrass killer, consider the types of weeds you’re battling, since different products specialize in eradicating specific weeds, including crabgrass, dandelions, and clover.
You might be dealing with a mix of weeds, or maybe you’re targeting a specific one. Either way, choosing a product that’s designed to tackle your specific weed problem is crucial.
Some crabgrass killers are formulated to tackle a broad spectrum of weeds, while others are more selective. If you’ve got a lawn overrun with multiple types of weeds, a broad-spectrum product might be your best bet.
On the other hand, if you’re dealing with a specific type of weed, like crabgrass or dandelions, a more targeted product could be more effective.
When reviewing product labels, look for language that indicates the types of weeds the product is designed to control. You might also want to check the active ingredients and their concentrations to verify they’re effective against your target weeds.
Application Timing
Timing is critical when choosing a crabgrass killer, since applying it at the wrong time can damage your lawn or reduce the product’s effectiveness.
You’ll want to avoid applying crabgrass killers during the seasonal shifts (Early September through November and Late March through May), as this can harm your lawn.
Instead, the best time to apply is when the season’s weeds are first emerging, but haven’t produced blooms or seeds yet. This allows you to target the weeds when they’re most vulnerable.
Applying crabgrass killers in the spring or early summer can still be effective, even if crabgrass and weeds have already sprouted.
However, you must follow the product’s instructions and consider local weather patterns, as the ideal application timing may vary.
Product Formulation
When selecting a crabgrass killer, the product’s formulation is essential, since different formulas target specific weeds and affect your lawn in varying ways.
You’ll want to choose a product that’s designed to tackle crabgrass specifically, as some formulas may not be as effective against this particular weed.
Some crabgrass killers come in a selective formula, which means they’ll target crabgrass while leaving your desired grasses unharmed. These products usually contain ingredients like quinclorac or fenoxaprop.
On the other hand, non-selective formulas can kill all vegetation, so they’re best used for spot treatments or when you’re preparing a lawn for renovation.
Herbicides can also come in different forms, such as liquids, granules, or powders.
Liquids are often more effective for large areas, while granules or powders might be better suited for smaller spots.
Consider your lawn’s size and the type of crabgrass you’re dealing with when deciding on a formulation.
Coverage Area Size
You’ll need to determine the coverage area size of a crabgrass killer to verify you’ve got enough product to treat your entire lawn effectively. This refers to the maximum square footage of lawn area that the product can effectively treat, with some products covering up to 5,000 square feet.
When choosing a crabgrass killer, it’s vital to examine the size of your lawn to select a product that can adequately cover the entire area.
Larger lawns may require multiple applications or a product specifically designed to cover extensive areas, while smaller lawns may only need a smaller, more concentrated formula.
Be sure to check the product label or manufacturer’s instructions for specific coverage area information to avoid under- or over-treating your lawn.
Accurately measuring your lawn’s square footage can help you determine the correct amount of product needed and prevent waste or insufficient coverage. By evaluating the coverage area size, you can guarantee you’re getting the right product for your lawn’s unique needs.
Active Ingredient Safety
As you browse through the shelves, consider the safety of the active ingredients in crabgrass killers, as some can be hazardous to your pets, kids, or even the environment. You’ll want to choose a product that’s safe for your family and the environment. Look for products labeled as ‘pet-friendly’ or ‘environmentally safe.’ These products typically contain natural or organic ingredients that are less toxic.
Some crabgrass killers contain chemicals like quinclorac or dicamba, which can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. If you have pets or young children, you must choose a product with safer active ingredients. Additionally, consider the impact on the environment. Some products can contaminate soil and water, harming local wildlife.
Opt for products with biodegradable ingredients that break down quickly and safely. When shopping for a crabgrass killer, take a close look at the ingredient list. Be cautious of products with long lists of chemicals you can’t pronounce. Instead, choose products with simple, natural ingredients that are gentle on the environment and your loved ones.
Residual Control Period
Considering your lawn’s specific needs, the residual control period of a crabgrass killer is crucial, since it determines how long the product will keep killing crabgrass after application.
You want a product that’ll keep working for you, not one that’ll lose its effectiveness shortly after application. When choosing a crabgrass killer, you’ll want to weigh the length of residual control, usually measured in weeks or months.
A longer residual control period means you’ll have to reapply less often, saving you time and effort.
However, be aware that longer residual control periods can also mean a higher risk of soil and water contamination.
You must balance the benefits against the potential risks. If you have a small lawn with minimal crabgrass growth, a shorter residual control period might be sufficient.
But if you’re dealing with a larger lawn or severe crabgrass infestation, a longer residual control period might be necessary.
Ultimately, you’ll need to balance your needs with the potential environmental impact.
Rainfastness Guarantee
When choosing a crabgrass killer, look for a rainfastness guarantee, which guarantees the product will remain effective even after rainfall or irrigation, so you can confidently apply it without worrying about wash-off.
This feature is vital, especially if you live in an area with frequent rainfall or plan to water your lawn soon after application. Without a rainfastness guarantee, the product mightn’t be effective, and you’ll need to reapply it, wasting time and money.
A rainfastness guarantee confirms the product will stick to the target weeds, including crabgrass, and continue to kill them even after exposure to water.
This is particularly important for crabgrass, which can grow rapidly and spread quickly. By choosing a product with a rainfastness guarantee, you can rest assured that your crabgrass killer will continue to work effectively, even in rainy or irrigated conditions.
Look for products with a clear rainfastness guarantee, usually specified in hours or days, to guarantee you get the most out of your crabgrass killer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Crabgrass Killers on Newly Seeded Lawns?
When you’ve newly seeded your lawn, you must wait until the grass is established before using crabgrass killers. You’ll want to wait at least 6-8 weeks or until you’ve mowed your new lawn 3-4 times.
Are Crabgrass Killers Safe for Pets and Children?
Savvy homeowners like you should scrutinize safety first: most crabgrass killers contain toxic chemicals, so it’s essential to keep pets and kids at a safe distance to avoid accidental ingestions or skin exposures.
How Long Does It Take for Crabgrass Killers to Work?
You’re probably wondering how long it takes for crabgrass killers to work. Typically, you’ll start seeing results within 2-5 days, but it may take up to 2 weeks for complete death of the unwanted grass.
Can I Mix Crabgrass Killers With Other Lawn Care Products?
When mixing lawn care products, you’ll want to exercise caution. Always read labels carefully, and follow instructions to avoid damaging your lawn. Typically, it’s safe to mix crabgrass killers with fertilizers or pesticides, but avoid combining with weed preventers or other herbicides.
Are Crabgrass Killers Also Effective on Other Types of Weeds?
Just like a superhero saving the day, you’re wondering if crabgrass killers have superpowers to tackle other weeds too. Yes, many products are effective on other types of weeds, such as dandelions, clover, and plantain, but always check the label to confirm.
Conclusion
As you stand in your lush, vibrant lawn, the warm sun on your face, you can’t help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.
The battle against crabgrass is won, and your yard is the envy of the neighborhood.
With the right crabgrass killer, you’ve taken back control, and your lawn is thriving.
The sweet scent of fresh cut grass wafts through the air, a reminder of the beauty and serenity that awaits you in your outdoor oasis.
