Does your beautiful green lawn look like a battlefield dotted with stubborn, unwanted visitors? Those broad, pesky weeds can quickly turn your dream yard into a patchy mess. It is frustrating to spend hours mowing and watering, only to see dandelions and clover popping up everywhere. Choosing the right broadleaf weed killer adds another layer of confusion. Should you use a liquid spray or dry granules? What ingredients actually work best for your specific lawn type?
Picking the wrong product wastes time and money, and sometimes it can even harm your healthy grass! You deserve a simple, effective plan to reclaim your turf. This guide cuts through the confusing labels and technical jargon. We will break down the best broadleaf weed killers available, explaining exactly what they do and when to use them.
Keep reading to discover the secrets to a weed-free, vibrant lawn this season. We provide clear, easy-to-follow advice so you can confidently select the perfect defense against those unwanted invaders.
Top Broadleaf Weed Killer For Lawns Recommendations
- Low, economical use rate of 1 to 4 pints per acre
- Controls many broadleaf weeds & woody plants
- Use in turf, pastures, rangeland, ditch banks, fences…
- Weed killer for lawns: Use Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns to kill over 250 listed weeds including dandelion and clover down to the root, without harming your lawn (when used as directed)
- Fast-acting weed control: Kills listed weeds like dandelion, clover, and chickweed down to the root and gets results with 1 application
- Spot treatment for weeds: Kills weeds not the lawn when used as directed - use on St. Augustinegrass (not Floratam), Bermudagrass, Centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, Buffalograss, and Bahiagrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, Tall Fescue, and Fine Fescue
- Spray weed killer: Apply this lawn weed killer to small, actively growing weeds when daytime temperatures are below 90°F
- Ready to use: This 1 gal. container of Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns comes with the continuous-spray Comfort Wand applicator to easily spot treat weeds in your lawn
- Weed killer for lawns: Kill weeds in your lawn, including dandelion, chickweed, clover, crabgrass and foxtail with the Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray
- Fast-acting weed control: This weed control product kills listed weeds like crabgrass, dandelion, clover, chickweed and creeping charlie down to the root and gets results with 1 application
- Broadcast treatment for weeds: Won't harm lawn grasses when used as directed - use on lawn grasses including Bermudagrass, Buffalograss, Fescues, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass and Zoysiagrass
- Spray weed killer: Apply to weeds that are young and actively growing by connecting your garden hose to the sprayer, sliding the switch to "ON" and spraying evenly until the lawn is wet
- Ready to spray: This 32 oz. container of Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray treats up to 5,000 sq. ft.
- SOUTHERN LAWNS: Specially formulated for Southern lawns like Bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass (including Floratam), and more, this grass fertilizer for lawn provides care and acts as a weed killer for lawns
- 6-MONTH PROTECTION: Delivers up to 6 months of weed prevention, stopping listed broadleaf and grassy weeds, including crabgrass
- WEED KILLER: Kills listed weeds like dandelion, dollarweed, and clover, serving as a reliable weed and feed for lawns to keep your lawn healthy and maintain its beauty
- LAWN FERTILIZER: This lawn fertilizer and weed control product feeds, greens, and strengthens your lawn, helping it remain lush throughout the season
- EASY APPLICATION: Use with a broadcast or drop spreader to apply this weed and feed lawn fertilizer, managing your lawn care routine with ease and maximum results
- Use Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns Ready-To-Spray to kill weeds down to the root, without harming your lawn (when used as directed); you'll see visible results in hours
- KILLS WEEDS: This lawn weed killer kills over 250 common weeds, including dandelions, clover, poison ivy, chickweed, and dollarweed (see product label for complete weed list)
- LAWN FRIENDLY: It contains three proven ingredients that target common lawn weeds, so it won’t harm your grass (when used as directed)
- RESULTS YOU CAN SEE: Visible results in hours; rainproof in 1 hour upon drying; people and pets may enter the treated area after the spray has dried
- EASY TO USE: To apply, connect your garden hose to the sprayer and set the nozzle to your desired setting
- KILLS TO THE ROOT: BioAdvanced Lawn Weed Killer controls listed weeds down to their roots and can cover up to 8,000 sq. ft. of lawn
- KILLS OVER 200 WEEDS: Kills over 200 listed lawn weeds, including clover, dandelion, dollarweed, and chickweed
- EASY APPLICATION: One application will kill listed weeds and won't harm your lawn (when used as directed)
- VERSATILE FOR YOUR LAWN: Formulated for both Southern and Northern lawns like Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, Bermuda, Buffalo, and some varieties of St. Augustinegrass
- RAINPROOF PROTECTION: Enjoy rainproof protection in 1 hour with this lawn weed killer spray
- Weed killer for lawns: Kill weeds including dandelion, dollarweed, chickweed, and clover without harming your lawn (when used as directed) with Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Use1
- Fast-acting weed control: This weed control product kills over 250 listed weeds, including dandelion, clover, chickweed, creeping charlie, and dollarweed, and produces results in hours
- Spot treatment for weeds: Won't harm lawn grasses when used as directed - use on Bahiagrass, Bentgrass, Bermudagrass (hybrid and common), Buffalograss, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, Zoysiagrass, and St. Augustinegrass (except Floratam)
- Spray weed killer: Apply this lawn weed killer to small, actively growing weeds when daytime temperatures are below 90°F
- Ready to use: This 1 gal. container of Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns Ready-to-Use1 comes with the continuous-spray Comfort Wand applicator to spot treat weeds in your lawn
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Broadleaf Weed Killers for Lawns
Keeping your lawn green and weed-free is a big job. Broadleaf weeds like dandelions and clover can quickly take over healthy grass. Choosing the right weed killer is important. This guide helps you select the best product for your yard.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, check the label carefully. Not all weed killers work the same way. Here are the most important features:
- Selective Action: This is crucial. A good broadleaf killer targets weeds but leaves your desirable lawn grass unharmed. Look for labels that specifically mention safety for your grass type (like Fescue or Bermuda).
- Speed of Action: How fast do you want results? Some products work within hours, showing visible results quickly. Others take several days or weeks for complete weed death.
- Rainfastness: This means how long the product needs to dry before rain can wash it away. Look for products with high rainfastness (often 1-4 hours). This prevents wasted effort.
- Systemic vs. Contact: Systemic killers travel through the entire weed, killing the roots. Contact killers only burn the parts they touch. Systemic is usually better for tough, deep-rooted weeds.
Important Ingredients and Materials
The active ingredients determine how the product kills weeds. Most effective broadleaf killers use a combination of chemicals to target different weed types.
Common Active Ingredients:
- 2,4-D: A very common herbicide that mimics plant growth hormones, causing the weeds to grow uncontrollably and die.
- Dicamba: Works well on deep-rooted, tough weeds like ground ivy.
- Mecoprop (MCPP): Often paired with 2,4-D, it helps control clover and chickweed.
Always check the concentration percentages. Higher concentrations might mean fewer applications are needed, but you must follow mixing directions exactly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your weed killer depends on several factors beyond just the label.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Concentrate Quality: High-quality chemical formulations tend to stick better to the waxy surface of the weed leaves, improving absorption.
- Adjuvants Included: Some premium formulas include surfactants (sticking agents) that help the spray spread evenly and stick longer.
- Temperature Stability: The best products maintain effectiveness across a wider range of temperatures, though most work best in moderate weather (60°F to 85°F).
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Improper Storage: If the product freezes or gets extremely hot before use, its effectiveness can decrease significantly.
- Using Old or Expired Stock: Chemicals break down over time. Always check the manufacturing date if possible.
- Mixing Errors: Using too much water or too little product (or vice versa) will result in poor weed control.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the product greatly affects your success.
Application Types:
- Ready-to-Spray (RTS): These bottles attach directly to your hose. They offer very easy application and are great for beginners or small lawns.
- Concentrates: These require you to mix them in a separate sprayer tank. They are more economical for large yards but demand careful measuring.
Best Use Case: Apply when weeds are actively growing, usually in the spring or early fall. Avoid applying right before a major heatwave or heavy rain. Always wear gloves and long sleeves when applying chemicals.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Broadleaf Weed Killers
Q: How long does it take to see results after spraying?
A: Most products start showing yellowing or twisting of the weeds within 3 to 7 days. Complete death usually takes two weeks.
Q: Can I mow my lawn immediately after applying the killer?
A: Wait at least two days after application before mowing. This gives the systemic killer time to move down to the roots.
Q: Is it safe to let my dog walk on the lawn after treatment?
A: Check the label for specific waiting times. Generally, you must wait until the lawn is completely dry to the touch, usually a few hours.
Q: Will this kill my St. Augustine grass?
A: St. Augustine grass is sensitive to many broadleaf herbicides, especially 2,4-D. Always choose a product specifically labeled as safe for St. Augustine.
Q: What is the best time of day to spray?
A: Early morning is ideal. The air is usually calm, reducing drift, and the dew helps the product stick initially before it dries.
Q: Why are some weeds still alive after a week?
A: This usually means the weed has deep roots, or you did not achieve full coverage when spraying. You might need a second, spot treatment application.
Q: Can I use this product around flowers and vegetable gardens?
A: No. Broadleaf killers are designed to harm broadleaf plants. Spray carefully, keeping the nozzle pointed away from desirable flowers and vegetables.
Q: What do I do if the product runs off into the street?
A: Runoff is dangerous for water systems. Always follow mixing instructions precisely to avoid excess liquid, and avoid spraying when heavy rain is forecast.
Q: Are organic broadleaf killers effective?
A: Organic options, often based on vinegar or iron, work well on very young weeds but usually require multiple applications and may struggle against established dandelions.
Q: Should I use a spot treatment or treat the entire lawn?
A: If you only have a few weeds, spot treatment saves money and reduces chemical use. If weeds cover more than 25% of your lawn, a broadcast application is usually more efficient.