Does your beautiful spring lawn look like a battleground of green grass and pesky invaders? Those unwanted dandelions and creeping clover can really spoil the look of your hard work. It feels frustrating when you see those weeds popping up right when you want your lawn to look its best after a long winter.
Choosing the right spring weed killer for your lawn feels like a confusing maze. Should you use a pre-emergent or a post-emergent? Will this product harm your grass? These questions stop many homeowners in their tracks. You want a lush, green carpet, not a patchy mess.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explain exactly what you need to know to choose the perfect spring weed killer. You will learn the easy differences between products and how to apply them safely for the best results. Get ready to reclaim your yard! Let’s dive into making your lawn the envy of the neighborhood.
Top Spring Weed Killer For Lawns Recommendations
- Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3 weed killer plus fertilizer kills existing listed weeds and feeds to thicken your lawn and crowd out future weeds
- Weed Control and Lawn Fertilizer: controls over 50 listed lawn weeds, including clover, dandelion, plantain, morningglory, chicory, eveningprimrose, and purslane
- Weed and Feed for Lawns: Apply this combination weed control and lawn food to a wet lawn when weeds are actively growing and daytime temperatures are consistently between 60°F and 90°F; do not apply more than 2X per year
- Use on Listed Grass Types: Apply this lawn care product to Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass (temporary discoloration may occur on some grasses)
- Coverage: One 14.29 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3 covers 5,000 sq. ft.; use a Scotts spreader for even, uniform coverage
- Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1 is a three-in-one formula that kills weeds, prevents crabgrass, and feeds grass to build thick, green lawns
- Controls existing listed lawn weeds, including dandelion, clover, dollarweed, ground ivy, chickweed, plantain, henbit, and english daisy
- Prevents crabgrass for 4 months (will not kill existing crabgrass); prevents other listed grassy weeds from invading your lawn
- For use on Bahiagrass, Centipedegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, Bermudagrass, Tall Fescue, Fine Fescue, and Zosyiagrass
- Apply to a wet lawn with a Scotts spreader, and then water in after 24 hours; apply in early spring when dandelions are actively growing; an 11.31 lb. bag treats 4,000 sq. ft.
- 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.
- Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed5 weed killer plus fertilizer kills existing listed weeds and feeds to thicken grass and crowd out future weeds
- Weed Control and Lawn Fertilizer: controls over 50 listed lawn weeds, including clover, dandelion, plantain, morningglory, chicory, eveningprimrose, and purslane
- Weed and Feed for Lawns: Apply this combination weed control and lawn food to a wet lawn when weeds are actively growing and daytime temperatures are consistently between 60°F and 90°F; do not apply more than 2X per year
- Use on Listed Grass Types: Apply this lawn care product to Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass (temporary discoloration may occur on some grasses)
- Coverage: One 11.32 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed5 covers 4,000 sq. ft.; use a Scotts spreader for even, uniform coverage
- Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer prevents the germination of listed lawn weeds so you can enjoy your lawn
- Prevents the germination of crabgrass, foxtail, spurge, barnyardgrass, and more as listed in the early spring all season long, and moss (except in California), Poa annua, henbit, corn speedwell, and chickweed in the fall
- Apply this pre-emergent weed killer in the early spring to a dry lawn or in the fall; rain, snow, or freezing weather after application will not affect the performance of this product
- This lawn care product is for use on all grass types (with the exception of Dichondra or Bentgrass)
- One 20.12 lb. bag of Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer covers 10,000 sq. ft.
- 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
- Scotts Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control kills weeds and gives your lawn a quick boost of nitrogen to promote greening
- Liquid weed killer plus fertilizer controls dandelion, clover, ground ivy, henbit, chickweed, plantain, poison ivy, and other broadleaf weeds as listed
- Apply this ready-to-spray weed and feed when weeds are actively growing
- This lawn care product is for use on Bluegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, Bahiagrass, Common Bermudagrass, Centipedegrass, and Zoysiagrass
- One 32 fl. oz. container of Scotts Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control provides coverage of 6,000 sq. ft. for warm season lawns and 4,000 sq. ft. for cool season lawns
- Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1 is a three-in-one formula that kills weeds, prevents crabgrass, and feeds grass to build thick, green lawns
- Controls existing listed lawn weeds, including dandelion, clover, dollarweed, ground ivy, chickweed, plantain, henbit, and english daisy
- Prevents crabgrass for 4 months (will not kill existing crabgrass); prevents other listed grassy weeds from invading your lawn
- For use on Bahiagrass, Centipedegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, Bermudagrass, Tall Fescue, Fine Fescue, and Zosyiagrass
- Apply to a wet lawn with a Scotts spreader, and then water in after 24 hours; apply in early spring when dandelions are actively growing; a 33.94 lb. bag treats 12,000 sq. ft.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Spring Weed Killer for Lawns
Spring is the time for green grass. But weeds try to take over. A good spring weed killer keeps your lawn looking great. This guide helps you pick the right product. We look at what matters most for a healthy, weed-free yard.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, check the label carefully. Certain features make a weed killer better for your lawn.
1. Selective vs. Non-Selective
- Selective Killers: These are best for lawns. They kill broadleaf weeds (like dandelions and clover). They leave your grass unharmed.
- Non-Selective Killers: These kill everything they touch, including grass. Use these only for clearing garden paths or driveways, not your lawn.
2. Pre-Emergent vs. Post-Emergent
- Pre-Emergent: This stops seeds from sprouting. Apply this early in spring before weeds appear. It builds a barrier underground.
- Post-Emergent: This kills weeds that are already growing. Use this when you see existing weeds popping up.
3. Application Method
Some weed killers are ready to spray. Others require mixing with water in a sprayer tank. Ready-to-use options save time but can cost more.
Important Ingredients and Materials
The active ingredients determine how the product works. Understanding these helps you choose a safe and effective killer.
Common Active Ingredients
- 2,4-D, MCPP, and Dicamba: These are common in selective killers. They target broadleaf weeds effectively.
- Surfactants: These help the spray stick to the weed’s leaves better. Good coverage means better killing power.
Safety Considerations
Always check the label for safety warnings. Look for products that list safe re-entry times for pets and children after application. Water-based formulas are often easier to clean up than oil-based ones.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your weed killer affects your lawn’s health and the final result.
What Improves Quality?
- Targeted Formulas: Products designed specifically for common local weeds work best.
- Slow-Release Formulas: Some products offer longer protection, meaning fewer applications later in the season.
- Rainfastness: A good product dries quickly. This means rain won’t wash it away shortly after you spray, ensuring the weeds absorb the chemical.
What Reduces Quality?
- Improper Timing: Applying a pre-emergent too late means it will not work well. Applying post-emergent when temperatures are very high can sometimes stress the grass.
- Incorrect Mixing: If you use a concentrate, measuring precisely is crucial. Too little won’t kill the weeds; too much can harm your lawn.
User Experience and Use Cases
How easy is the product to use? Think about your yard size and how much work you want to do.
For Small Yards:
A ready-to-spray container is convenient. You attach it to a hose, and you are done quickly. Cleanup is usually minimal.
For Large Yards:
A large concentrate jug, mixed in a pump sprayer, saves money. This takes more time to mix and apply but is more economical for big areas.
When to Apply:
For best spring results, apply pre-emergents when the soil temperature reaches 55°F. Apply post-emergents when weeds are actively growing, usually when daytime temperatures are mild (60°F to 80°F).
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Spring Weed Killers
Q: When is the best time in spring to apply weed killer?
A: For prevention, apply pre-emergent when soil temperatures reach 55°F. For existing weeds, apply post-emergent when they are small and actively growing.
Q: Will this kill my existing grass?
A: If you buy a selective weed killer, it will target broadleaf weeds and leave healthy grass alone. Always read the label to be sure.
Q: How long until I can let my dog back on the lawn?
A: This depends on the product. Wait until the treated area is completely dry, usually a few hours. Check the specific product instructions.
Q: What if it rains right after I spray?
A: Good weed killers are “rainfast” within a few hours. If heavy rain comes immediately, the product might wash off, and you may need to reapply.
Q: Can I use the same killer for driveway cracks?
A: Only use a non-selective killer for cracks. A selective lawn killer will not harm the weeds in concrete cracks effectively.
Q: Do organic weed killers work as well as chemical ones?
A: Organic options often use ingredients like vinegar or iron. They usually work best on very young weeds and may require more frequent application than chemical products.
Q: What is the difference between a liquid and a granular product?
A: Liquid products are mixed with water and sprayed on. Granular products are spread over the lawn using a spreader and then watered in.
Q: Why are some weed killers more expensive?
A: Higher-quality products often contain a better mix of active ingredients or include extra features like slow-release protection.
Q: My lawn has different types of weeds. Can one product handle them all?
A: Many popular spring weed killers are “three-way” formulas, meaning they target the three most common types of broadleaf weeds.
Q: Should I mow my lawn before or after spraying?
A: Mow the day before you spray. Do not mow for at least a day or two afterward. This gives the weed killer time to move down to the roots.