Does your beautiful Texas lawn look more like a battlefield against stubborn weeds? You spend hours watering, mowing, and caring for your grass, only to see those unwanted invaders pop right back up. It’s frustrating! Dealing with weeds in the Lone Star State is a special challenge. The intense Texas heat and unique soil conditions make some common weed killers ineffective or even harmful to your prized St. Augustine or Bermuda grass.
Choosing the wrong product can mean wasting money, damaging your lawn, or simply failing to stop the invasion. You need a solution that is strong enough for tough Texas weeds but safe for your turf. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what works best under our sunny skies, explaining which chemicals target common pests like dollarweed and clover without frying your healthy grass.
Keep reading to discover the top-rated, Texas-approved weed killers. We give you the knowledge to take back control of your yard and enjoy a lush, green oasis all summer long. Let’s dive into creating the perfect weed-free lawn!
Top Weed Killer For Lawns In Texas Recommendations
- WEED CONTROL: Southern weed and feed weed killer controls dollar weed, clover, dandelion, chickweed, oxalis, henbit, purslane, and more as listed
- DUAL ACTION: Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed2 weed killer plus Scotts fertilizer for grass kills existing weeds as listed, and feeds grass to crowd out future weeds and build strong, deep roots
- APPLICATION: Apply this lawn weed killer with fertilizer to a dry lawn when grass and weeds are actively growing; this lawn food must be watered in immediately after application
- GRASS TYPES: Lawn food for grass including St. Augustinegrass (including Floratam), Centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, and Carpetgrass; do not apply to Bermudagrass
- COVERAGE: One 34.48 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed2 covers 10,000 sq. ft.
- ✔️EASY MIX PACKET NO measuring required!
- ✔️PROFESSIONAL GOLF COURSE QUALITY
- ✔️FAST ACTING
- ✔️KILLS DANDELIONS 120 MORE
- ✔️SAFE ON ST. AUGUSTINE+ ALOT MORE
- FEEDS LAWNS FOR UP TO 3 MONTHS - The lawn fertilizer has an analysis of 21-0-3 and is designed to promote lush green growth. It provides gradual, consistent nutrient release for up to 3 months. Cannot be used at the same time as seeding a new lawn.
- CONTROLS OVER 250 WEEDS - Green-Up Weed & Feed kills weeds down to the root. Our weed killer controls over 250 broadleaf weeds including dandelions, chickweed, clover, wild onions, thistle, poison ivy, and more.
- FINE PARTICLE SIZE - The fine particle size of Green-Up Weed & Feed is perfect for weed control and feeding action. It feeds desirable grass longer while weeds gradually disappear from the lawn.
- EASY TO APPLY - Green-Up Weed & Feed should be applied using a rotary, drop, or hand-held spreader. Best results are obtained by applying when weeds are actively growing.
- COMPLETE COVERAGE - This 15 lb bag covers up to 5,000 sq. ft. The best time to apply is late spring or early fall.
- ELITE WEED DEFENSE - Sedgehammer + offers unparalleled defense against nutsedge & up to 25 additional challenging weeds. Crafted for the discerning homeowner for small-scale use, this nutsedge weed killer quickly transforms your landscape into a verdant sanctuary
- PROUDLY MADE IN THE USA - Sedgehammer herbicides are all made in the USA, embodying the pinnacle of premium quality that every yard deserves
- SIMPLY MEASURE, MIX, & APPLY - Our nut grass killer for lawns redefines user convenience with its integrated dry, non-ionic surfactant, creating a weed killer mix without the extra additives. With crystal-clear instructions, it provides an easy, hassle-free experience
- TENDER ON TURF, TOUGH ON WEEDS - Sedgehammer nutsedge killer easily eliminates nutsedge without compromising your turfgrass or other plants. Once our pet safe weed killer completely dries, you and your pets will be all set to play time
- COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTION - With Sedgehammer Plus Turf Herbicide, a little goes a long way; just one 13.5g (0.5oz) packet unleashes powerful weed control over an expansive 1,000 sq ft. despite cold or warm climates
- Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed2 weed killer plus fertilizer kills existing weeds as listed, and feeds grass to crowd out future weeds and build strong, deep roots to withstand Southern stressors
- Southern weed and feed controls dollarweed, clover, dandelion, chickweed, oxalis, henbit, purslane, and more as listed
- Apply to a dry lawn when grass and weeds are actively growing; product must be watered in immediately after application
- This lawn care product is for use on St. Augustinegrass (including Floratam), Centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, and Carpetgrass only
- One 17.24 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed2 covers 5,000 sq. ft.
- Control poison ivy and poison oak at home with Poison Oak & Ivy Killer Ready-to-Use Spray from Bonide
- This fast acting product starts working over night, kills unwanted plants down to the root, and is rain proof within 6 hours of application
- When used as directed, this product controls poison oak, poison ivy and a variety of broadleaf weeds without harming wanted lawn grasses
- No mixing or pouring means no mess; to apply simply aim where weeds are actively growing and spray, avoid over spraying
- This product arrives conveniently ready-to-use in a trigger sprayer bottle; for best results and for full use instructions please see product label
- FEEDS LAWNS FOR UP TO 3 MONTHS - The lawn fertilizer has an analysis of 21-0-3 and is designed to promote lush green growth. It provides gradual, consistent nutrient release for up to 3 months. Cannot be used at the same time as seeding a new lawn.
- CONTROLS OVER 250 WEEDS - Green-Up Weed & Feed kills weeds down to the root. Our weed killer controls over 250 broadleaf weeds including dandelions, chickweed, clover, wild onions, thistle, poison ivy, and more.
- FINE PARTICLE SIZE - The fine particle size of Green-Up Weed & Feed is perfect for weed control and feeding action. It feeds desirable grass longer while weeds gradually disappear from the lawn.
- EASY TO APPLY - Green-Up Weed & Feed should be applied using a rotary, drop, or hand-held spreader. Best results are obtained by applying when weeds are actively growing.
- COMPLETE COVERAGE - This 45 lb bag covers up to 15,000 sq. ft. The best time to apply is late spring or early fall.
Your Guide to Taming Texas Turf: Buying Weed Killer for Lawns
Texas weather is tough, and so are the weeds that try to take over your beautiful lawn. Choosing the right weed killer means understanding what works best in the Lone Star State’s heat and humidity. This guide helps you pick the perfect product to keep your grass green and weed-free.
Key Features to Look for in a Texas Weed Killer
Target Specificity: Selective vs. Non-Selective
- Selective Weed Killers: These are your best friends for established lawns. They target broadleaf weeds (like dandelions or clover) but leave your desirable grass (like Bermuda or St. Augustine) unharmed.
- Non-Selective Weed Killers: These kill everything they touch, including your grass. Use these only for clearing driveways, patios, or preparing a new garden bed.
Application Timing: Pre-Emergent vs. Post-Emergent
- Pre-Emergent: These products form a barrier in the soil. They stop weed seeds from sprouting. In Texas, apply these early in the spring (before the heat hits) to stop summer annuals like crabgrass.
- Post-Emergent: These kill weeds that are already growing. Look for products that work well in higher temperatures without burning your lawn.
Longevity and Rainfastness
Texas summers often bring sudden, heavy thunderstorms. Check the label for “rainfastness.” This tells you how quickly the product sticks to the weed and becomes waterproof, usually within an hour or two.
Important Materials and Ingredients
Active Ingredients Matter
The chemicals in the bottle do the heavy lifting. For broadleaf weeds, common effective ingredients include 2,4-D, MCPP, or Dicamba. For tougher grassy weeds, look for ingredients like quinclorac.
Formulation Types
- Liquid Concentrates: You mix these with water. They often cover large areas quickly.
- Ready-to-Spray (RTS): These come in a jug with a sprayer attached. They are easy for beginners but can be more expensive per ounce.
- Granular Products: These spread dry over the lawn and require watering in. They are great for pre-emergents.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Temperature Sensitivity
This is crucial for Texas. Many powerful weed killers work poorly or damage your lawn if applied above 85°F or 90°F. High-quality Texas-formulated products are designed to be safer for use during warmer spring or fall applications.
Grass Type Compatibility
Bermuda grass handles stress better than Zoysia or St. Augustine. Always check the label to ensure the product is safe for *your* specific grass type. Using the wrong product guarantees brown spots.
Concentration and Dilution
Products that are highly concentrated often offer better long-term value. However, you must follow the mixing directions exactly. Too little product won’t work; too much product can kill your lawn.
User Experience and Use Cases
Ease of Application
If you are new to lawn care, choose an RTS product. If you have a very large yard, a backpack sprayer with a concentrate offers better cost savings and control.
Speed of Results
Post-emergent sprays usually show results within 3 to 7 days. If you need fast visual confirmation, look for products advertising quick knockdown, though sometimes slower action is gentler on the grass.
Safety for Pets and Kids
After application, most lawn treatments require a waiting period before allowing children or pets back onto the treated area. Always read the re-entry interval (REI) listed on the label.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Texas Weed Killers
Q: When should I apply pre-emergent weed killer in Texas?
A: Apply pre-emergent usually in late February or early March before soil temperatures consistently hit 55°F. This stops summer weeds like crabgrass before they start.
Q: Can I kill weeds when it is 95 degrees outside?
A: It is risky. Many chemicals become too harsh for grass in extreme heat. Apply weed killer early in the morning when temperatures are below 85°F, if possible, or wait for cooler weather.
Q: What is the best weed killer for St. Augustine grass?
A: St. Augustine grass is sensitive. Use selective products specifically labeled as safe for St. Augustine. Avoid products containing atrazine unless directed, as it can harm this grass type.
Q: How long until I can water my lawn after spraying?
A: Check the label, but generally, you need the product to dry completely. Most products recommend waiting 1 to 24 hours before watering to ensure the chemical sticks to the weeds.
Q: Will one application kill all my weeds?
A: No. Most weeds require follow-up applications, especially stubborn perennials. Use post-emergent sprays every 2 to 4 weeks until the weed is gone.
Q: Are organic weed killers effective in the Texas summer?
A: Organic options, often based on vinegar or citrus oils, work best on very young weeds and require direct, hot sun to be effective. They are generally less powerful than synthetic chemicals for established Texas weeds.
Q: What if my lawn has both broadleaf and grassy weeds?
A: You need a combination product or two separate applications. Use a broadleaf killer first, wait a week, and then target grassy weeds with a product like quinclorac.
Q: Should I spot-treat or spray the whole lawn?
A: Spot-treating is always better if you only have a few weeds. It saves money and reduces chemical exposure to the healthy grass. Broadcast spray only when weeds are widespread.
Q: Why do my weeds look yellow but not dead after three days?
A: That yellowing is a good sign! It means the herbicide is working. Give the product the full time listed on the label—sometimes it takes up to two weeks for a tough weed to completely die.
Q: Do I need to mow before or after I apply weed killer?
A: Mow at least two days before application. Do not mow for at least two days after application. Mowing too soon can stress the grass or remove the leaves the herbicide needs to hit.