Imagine stepping onto a perfectly green lawn, smooth as velvet. Doesn’t that look amazing? But then you spot them: those unwelcome invaders, those pesky weeds popping up everywhere! You know you need to fight back, and that’s where “Weed and Feed” products come in. They sound like a simple fix, right? Just sprinkle it on and watch the magic happen.
However, walking down the garden aisle can feel overwhelming. Which product actually works for your type of grass? Will it kill the dandelions without harming your fuzzy clover? Choosing the wrong Lawn Weed and Feed can lead to wasted money, a patchy yard, or even worse—burning your beautiful turf! It’s a common headache for every homeowner.
Don’t worry! This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what Weed and Feed does, how to pick the best one for your specific lawn needs, and the best time to apply it for maximum results. Get ready to trade frustration for a lush, weed-free carpet this season.
Top Lawn Weed And Feed Recommendations
- 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 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 WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed3 is a weed killer and lawn fertilizer that controls weeds and feeds grass in the fall for a better lawn next spring
- Fall weed and feed kills over 50 listed lawn weeds, including clover, dandelion, plantain, morningglory, chicory, eveningprimrose, and purslane
- Apply weed control plus grass fertilizer to a moist lawn when weeds are actively growing and temperatures are consistently between 60°F and 90°F
- This lawn care product is for use on Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass
- One 11.43 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed3 covers 4,000 sq. ft.
- DUAL-ACTION FORMULA: Kills major broadleaf weeds while feeding your lawn.
- FEEDS LAWN: Fertilizes with 20 percent nitrogen formulation.
- KILLS WEEDS: Controls dandelion, chickweed, knotweed, plantain, clover, mallow, purslane and many broadleaf weeds as listed.
- QUICKFLIP SPRAYER: Just connect to your hose and spray – just grip, flip and go.
- COVERAGE: 32 ounces treats up to 7,500 square feet of lawn.
- 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
- Kills over 250 common lawn weeds - including dandelions, clover and plantain
- Ideal for smaller lawns providing continuous feeding for up to 8 weeks
- Restores nutrients to the soil and helps lawn retain water to protect against heat and drought
- Builds a deeper, stronger root system
- Promotes a faster spring green up
- 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.
- 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
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Lawn Weed and Feed
Want a greener lawn without the annoying weeds? Lawn weed and feed products are your secret weapon. These products combine fertilizer to feed your grass and herbicides to kill unwanted weeds. Choosing the right one can make a big difference. This guide helps you pick the perfect bag or container for your yard.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop, look closely at the product label. Different weed and feeds do different jobs.
Weed Control Type
- Selective Herbicides: These kill specific weeds (like dandelions) but leave your desirable grass unharmed. This is what most homeowners need.
- Non-Selective Herbicides: These kill almost all plants they touch, including your grass. Use these only for spot treatments or clearing entire areas before reseeding.
Feeding Action
- Quick-Release vs. Slow-Release Nitrogen: Quick-release gives your lawn an immediate green boost. Slow-release feeds the grass steadily over several weeks, preventing ‘burn’ and providing longer-lasting color. Slow-release is often better for overall lawn health.
Application Timing
Some weed and feeds work best in spring, while others are designed for fall application. Check the label to ensure it matches the time of year you are treating your lawn.
Important Ingredients and Materials
The “feed” part of the product contains the essential nutrients your grass needs. These are listed by the N-P-K ratio on the bag (Nitrogen-Phosphate-Potassium).
The N-P-K Ratio
- Nitrogen (N): This is the most important nutrient for green, leafy growth. Higher numbers usually mean better color quickly.
- Phosphorus (P): Helps with strong root development. Many established lawns do not need a high amount of P.
- Potassium (K): Boosts the grass’s overall health and helps it fight stress, like drought or disease.
Active Weed Killers
The herbicide ingredients determine what weeds the product targets. Common active ingredients include 2,4-D, Dicamba, or MCPP. Make sure the product lists the specific weeds you are seeing in your yard (e.g., clover, crabgrass).
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of a weed and feed depends on how well it works and how safe it is for your existing turf.
Factors That Improve Quality
- Rainfall Tolerance: A high-quality product stays active on the soil surface long enough to work, even if a light rain falls shortly after application. Check the label for “rainfast” times.
- Granule Uniformity: When the fertilizer and herbicide are mixed evenly, you get consistent results across your lawn.
Factors That Reduce Quality (or Cause Problems)
- Over-Application: Using too much product is the fastest way to burn your grass, turning it yellow or brown. Always follow the spreader settings exactly.
- Applying in Extreme Heat: Applying weed killers when temperatures are consistently above 85°F can stress or kill your grass, even if the label suggests it is safe.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the product affects your experience. Most weed and feeds come in granular form, designed to be spread with a rotary or drop spreader.
Best Use Cases
- Early Spring Treatment: This targets emerging broadleaf weeds before they get too big. It also gives the grass a good first feeding.
- Crabgrass Prevention: Some specialized feeds include a “pre-emergent” herbicide. You apply this early in the spring before crabgrass seeds even sprout. This is a preventative measure.
Application Tips for Success
Always read the directions! Wear gloves and long sleeves when handling the product. After spreading, water the lawn lightly (unless the label says not to). This helps the fertilizer start working and moves the herbicide down to the weed roots. Wait the recommended time before mowing again.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lawn Weed and Feed
Q: When is the best time to apply weed and feed?
A: Generally, early spring is best, once the grass starts actively growing but before weeds flower. Fall applications are also great for strengthening the grass roots for winter.
Q: Can I use weed and feed if I have new grass seed?
A: No. Most weed killers will stop grass seed from sprouting. Wait until your new grass is established (usually mowed 2-3 times) before using a weed and feed product.
Q: How long until I see results?
A: You usually see the grass green up in a few days. The weeds might take one to three weeks to fully wilt and die, depending on the chemical and the weather.
Q: Do I need to water the lawn after spreading?
A: Yes, usually. A light watering helps dissolve the granules so the nutrients can reach the soil and the herbicide can activate. Check the bag first, though!
Q: Can I use a drop spreader instead of a rotary spreader?
A: You can use either, but you must adjust the setting. Rotary spreaders throw the product wider. Always check the bag for the specific setting number for your brand of spreader.
Q: What happens if it rains right after I apply it?
A: If the product is “rainfast,” it should be fine. If heavy rain washes it all away quickly, the fertilizer won’t work well, and you might need to reapply later.
Q: Is it safe for pets and kids?
A: Keep children and pets off the lawn until the product has completely dried and washed off the grass blades, usually a few hours. Always check the specific re-entry time on the label.
Q: Does weed and feed kill clover?
A: Most broadleaf weed and feeds are specifically designed to control common lawn weeds like clover, dandelions, and plantain.
Q: What if I accidentally put down too much?
A: If you notice burning or yellowing, immediately flush the area with a lot of water to try and wash the excess fertilizer into the soil. This might dilute the weed killer, though.
Q: How often should I use this product each year?
A: Most lawn care schedules recommend 2 to 4 applications per year, spaced according to the season (spring, late spring, early fall, late fall).