Weed Killer For Lawns

From herbicides targeting broadleaf weeds to selective formulas that preserve your desired grass species, our range offers effective solutions for maintaining a weed-free landscape, allowing you to enjoy a lush and healthy yard.

Maintaining a lush, green lawn can be challenging, especially when weeds start to invade. Finding the right weed killer for lawns is essential to keep your grass healthy and beautiful. Below, we'll explore the best products and practices for effective lawn weed control.

Understanding Lawn Weeds

Weeds will germinate almost anywhere they can which is why they can become an issue. It is important to apply a pre-emergent before weeds germinate which greatly reduces chasing weeds in your lawn

Common Lawn Weeds

Different types of weeds can plague your lawn, each requiring a specific approach for control. Common lawn weeds include dandelions, crabgrass, and clover are easy to control and usually only require one to two applications of herbicide.

Why Weeds Are a Problem

Weeds compete with grass for nutrients, water, and sunlight, which can result in weak and patchy lawns. Addressing weeds promptly is crucial for maintaining a vibrant lawn.  It is also necessary to perform a soil test at least once per year to make sure your soil is within range for growing grass.  When soils become out of range, weeds can quickly invade your lawn.

Choosing the Best Weed Killer for Lawns

It depends on lawn type and target weed.  There is not a perfect weed killer for your lawn.  Most weed killer products will control a number of weeds in the lawn.  

Weed Killer Safe for Lawns

When selecting a weed killer, it's important to choose a product that is safe for your lawn. Look for weed killers that target weeds without harming your grass.  Always check the label and follow instructions precisely.  Most organic options are not effective controlling weeds.

Best Lawn Weed Killer for Spring

Spring is an ideal time for lawn weed treatment as weeds are actively growing. We suggest applying a blanket application (spraying the entire lawn area) with weed killer on the first and second application of pre-emergent fertilizer.  By applying both herbicides twice, any existing weeds will be killed off and a prevention barrier will protect against future weeds.

Pre-Emergent vs. Post-Emergent Weed Killers

Understanding the difference between pre-emergent and post-emergent weed killers can help you choose the right product for your lawn. Pre-emergent treatments prevent weed seeds from germinating, while post-emergent treatments kill existing weeds.  Note: pre-emergent treatments must be applied before seed germination.  Be sure to check soil temperature and apply early.

How to Apply Weed Killer in Grass

Proper application of weed killer is crucial for effectiveness.  Before applying any products to your lawn, start by calibrating your sprayer with water.  It is important to know how much liquid will be applied per 1,000 sqft to properly mix weed killer.

Once calibrated and mixed, using a pump sprayer or battery operated sprayer, start by painting the lawn from front to back, making sure only to apply on the lawn.  For spot spray applications, lightly spot spray the target weed, do not water in the weed with herbicide.  

Tips for Successful Lawn Weed Treatment

It is not just a one and done.  There are many tips and tricks to minimize weeds in your lawn.  However, the most important tip is consistency with every fertilizer and weed preventative treatment.

Regular Lawn Maintenance

Consistent lawn care practices, such as mowing, watering, and fertilizing, can help prevent weed infestations. Lawn care is ongoing maintenance and should not be neglected.  

Benefits of Using a Surfactant with Weed Killer

Surfactants help the herbicide to spread more evenly across the weed's surface, ensuring better coverage and penetration. This leads to more effective weed control.

By reducing the surface tension of the liquid herbicide, surfactants allow for better absorption of the chemical into the weed, which enhances its ability to kill the weed from the inside out.

Combining Treatments for Best Results

Using a combination of treatments, such as manual weeding, herbicides, and proper lawn care, can enhance the effectiveness of your weed control efforts.  Before mixing or combining any herbicides, check to make sure the label permits combining herbicides or damage to your lawn may occur.

Finding the right weed killer for lawns is key to achieving a healthy, weed-free lawn. By understanding the types of weeds, choosing the appropriate products, and following best practices for application and maintenance, you can enjoy a beautiful, lush lawn year-round. Explore our recommended products and tips to keep your lawn looking its best.

For added convenience, below is a detailed chart that matches each type of weed, such as broadleaf and grassy weeds, with the most appropriate weed killer. This easy-to-use guide helps you choose the perfect lawn treatment for weeds, ensuring a lush, healthy lawn all year round.

weed killer for lawns comparison chart

Shop now and find the perfect weed killer for your lawn at lawnsynergy.com, where lawn care is made simple and effective.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best weed killer for lawns?

It depends on your lawn type and the target weed you are after.

  • Tall Fescue Grass: Triad Select & Q4 Plus
  • Bermuda Grass: Celsius WG & Q4 Plus
  • Zoysia Grass: Celsius WG & Q4 Plus
  • Kentucky Bluegrass: Triad Select
  • Ryegrass: Triad Select
  • Centipede Grass: Celsius WG
  • St. Augustine Grass: Celsius WG

Which is More Effective for Weed Control: Granular or Liquid Weed Killer?

Liquid weed killer is more effective and preferable for lawns compared to granular forms. It offers better and more uniform coverage, ensuring that the herbicide is evenly distributed across the lawn. This results in a more efficient and thorough weed control. Additionally, liquid formulas tend to be absorbed more quickly and effectively by weeds, leading to faster and more reliable results.

When should I apply weed killer to my lawn?

The best time to apply weed killer to your lawn largely depends on the presence of the target weeds. Essentially, any time is a suitable time to apply weed killer if the weeds you want to control are actively growing. However, for optimal results, it's recommended to apply weed control treatments in the morning. During this time, temperatures are typically cooler, which can enhance the effectiveness of the herbicide. Cooler temperatures help in reducing the risk of evaporation and can aid in better absorption by the weeds. It’s also important to check the weather forecast and avoid application before rain, which can wash away the herbicide. Following these guidelines ensures that the weed killer works effectively, targeting the weeds without causing undue stress to your lawn.

Is it better to spray weeds before or after mowing?

It is generally better to spray weeds after mowing your lawn. Mowing first helps in multiple ways. It trims the grass and weeds, making the latter more exposed and vulnerable to the weed killer. This ensures that the herbicide is directly applied to the weed, increasing its effectiveness. Additionally, mowing can help in evenly distributing the weed killer across the lawn. By waiting a couple of days after mowing, you allow the weeds to begin recovering and growing actively, which makes them absorb the herbicide more efficiently. This method enhances the overall effectiveness of the weed control process, ensuring that the weeds are targeted more precisely and effectively.

What to do if lawn is all weeds?

It depends on the severity of the weed infestation in your lawn. If the area is comprised of 60% or more weeds, the most effective strategy is often to start over from scratch. This process involves using a non-selective herbicide to kill off all vegetation in the area. Non-selective herbicides are broad-spectrum and will eliminate both the weeds and any grass present, so it's a measure reserved for severe cases. After applying the herbicide and giving it sufficient time to work, the next step is to till the soil. Tilling helps to remove any remaining weed roots and prepares the soil for new grass. Once the area is cleared and the soil is ready, you can then proceed to install a new lawn. This approach ensures that you're starting with a clean slate, free from weeds, which gives your new lawn the best chance of thriving.