Does your beautiful green lawn look like it’s wearing a fuzzy, grey-green sweater in the summer? That’s probably crabgrass, and it’s a lawn invader that many homeowners dread. It pops up seemingly out of nowhere, choking out the grass you’ve worked hard to grow and making your yard look messy and unkempt.
Choosing the right crabgrass killer can feel like a battlefield. You walk into the garden store, and shelves are packed with bottles and bags, each promising a weed-free lawn. But how do you know which one will actually work without harming your grass or the environment? It’s a confusing decision, and the wrong choice can lead to wasted money and continued frustration.
This guide is here to cut through the confusion. We’ll break down what you need to know to find a crabgrass killer that’s effective and easy to use. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your choice and ready to reclaim your lawn from those pesky weeds. Let’s dive in and discover how to get rid of crabgrass for good.
Our Top 5 Crabgrass Killer Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Crabgrass Killer Detailed Reviews
1. Roundup for Lawns Crabgrass Destroyer2
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of pesky crabgrass ruining your lawn? The Roundup for Lawns Crabgrass Destroyer2 is here to help! This tough weed killer is designed to tackle even the most stubborn crabgrass and other grassy weeds, getting rid of them right down to the root.
What We Like:
- Effectively kills crabgrass and other grassy weeds to the root.
- Formulated for tough weeds, so it really gets the job done.
- Safe to use on common lawn types like Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue.
- Ready-to-use spray bottle means you can start treating your lawn right away.
- Works best on actively growing weeds in mild temperatures (45°F to 90°F).
What Could Be Improved:
- Best results require application during specific weed growth stages and temperature ranges.
- The 64 oz. size might be too small for very large lawns.
This product offers a powerful solution for lawn weed problems. It’s a great tool for homeowners who want a beautiful, weed-free yard.
2. BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer for Lawn & Turf
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of battling stubborn crabgrass and other unwanted weeds that invade your lawn? The BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer is your powerful solution. This concentrate is designed to tackle both grassy and broadleaf weeds, giving you a healthier, more beautiful turf. Its active ingredient, Quinclorac, works fast and offers extended protection.
What We Like:
- The water-based formula helps the product get absorbed by plants quickly, so you see results sooner.
- It keeps working for up to 30 days, meaning fewer applications are needed.
- It’s rainfast in less than an hour, so you don’t have to worry about rain washing it away.
- It controls a wide variety of weeds, including tough ones like crabgrass, foxtail, and bindweed.
- It works on both warm-season and cool-season grasses, making it suitable for many different lawns.
- It’s safe for use on residential lawns, golf courses, and other turf areas.
What Could Be Improved:
- You need to carefully read and follow all label instructions for safe and effective use.
- Proper safety gear, like gloves and long clothing, is required during application.
- There might be state restrictions on how and where you can use it, like in New York where it’s only for spot treatment.
Overall, BASF Drive XLR8 offers effective and lasting weed control for a pristine lawn. It’s a great tool for homeowners and professionals alike who want a weed-free turf.
3. Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray
Rating: 8.8/10
Tired of pesky weeds taking over your beautiful lawn? The Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray is here to help. This powerful weed killer targets common lawn invaders like crabgrass, dandelions, and clover, so you can enjoy a greener, healthier yard. It’s designed to be easy to use and effective, giving you more time to relax outdoors.
What We Like:
- It kills many common weeds like dandelion, chickweed, clover, crabgrass, and foxtail.
- It works fast, killing weeds down to the root in just one application.
- It won’t harm most lawn grasses when used as directed, including popular types like Bermudagrass and Kentucky Bluegrass.
- It’s ready to spray right out of the bottle – just attach your garden hose.
- A single 32 oz. container can treat up to 5,000 square feet of lawn.
What Could Be Improved:
- This product cannot be shipped to Florida, Guam, Hawaii, or Louisiana.
For a weed-free lawn that’s the envy of your neighbors, Ortho WeedClear is a solid choice. Get ready to reclaim your lawn and enjoy its beauty all season long.
4. BioAdvanced All-In-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer I
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of unsightly weeds and stubborn crabgrass ruining your beautiful lawn? BioAdvanced All-In-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer I, Concentrate, 40 oz offers a powerful solution. This concentrate is designed to tackle over 200 types of weeds, including dandelions and clover, while keeping your grass healthy. It works by reaching deep down to the root, ensuring those pesky weeds don’t come back.
What We Like:
- It’s an all-in-one formula that kills weeds and crabgrass without harming your lawn.
- It effectively controls over 200 tough broadleaf weeds.
- The formula kills weeds all the way down to the root.
- It’s rainproof in just one hour, so it won’t wash away.
- The concentrate is easy to mix and apply, saving you time.
- It works with many different types of grass.
What Could Be Improved:
- The concentrate requires mixing, which adds an extra step.
- Some users might prefer a ready-to-use spray for quicker application.
BioAdvanced All-In-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer I is a strong contender for keeping your lawn weed-free. Its effectiveness and long-lasting protection make it a valuable tool for any homeowner.
5. Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer Concentrate
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of a lawn overrun by weeds, especially stubborn crabgrass? Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer Concentrate offers a powerful solution to reclaim your green space. This concentrate is designed to target and eliminate over 470 different types of weeds, including that pesky crabgrass, without harming your desirable lawn grass when used as directed. It’s your secret weapon for a beautiful, weed-free yard.
What We Like:
- Kills weeds, not your lawn: It specifically targets listed weeds, leaving your grass unharmed.
- Effective crabgrass killer: Apply early for the best results against crabgrass.
- Broad-spectrum weed control: Eliminates over 470 types of weeds, from broadleaf to grassy ones.
- Rainproof protection: Works even if it rains or you water just 3 hours after application.
- Generous coverage: A single 40-ounce bottle treats up to 6,250 square feet.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires mixing: As a concentrate, it needs to be mixed with water before application.
- Application timing for crabgrass: You need to be vigilant to apply it the first time you spot crabgrass.
Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer Concentrate provides a comprehensive and effective way to manage a wide variety of weeds. Enjoy a healthier, more attractive lawn with this powerful formula.
Your Lawn’s Best Friend: A Crabgrass Killer Buying Guide
Crabgrass can be a real nuisance. It’s a tough weed that pops up in the summer. It looks ugly and takes over your lawn. Luckily, you can fight it with crabgrass killer. This guide helps you choose the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for crabgrass killer, check for these important things.
- Effectiveness: Does it kill crabgrass? Look for products that say they are effective against crabgrass.
- Timing: Some killers work best before crabgrass sprouts. Others kill it after it’s already growing. Know when you want to use it.
- Lawn Safety: Will it harm your good grass? The best killers only target weeds.
- Ease of Use: Is it easy to apply? Some come ready to spray. Others need mixing.
- Ingredients: What is in the killer? Knowing the ingredients helps you choose.
Important Materials in Crabgrass Killers
Crabgrass killers have different active ingredients. These are the parts that do the killing.
- Pre-emergent Herbicides: These stop crabgrass seeds from sprouting. Common ones include Prodiamine and Dithiopyr. You use them in early spring.
- Post-emergent Herbicides: These kill crabgrass that is already growing. Quinclorac and Fenoxaprop are examples. You use these in the summer.
- Combination Products: Some killers have both pre-emergent and post-emergent ingredients. These offer wider protection.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a crabgrass killer better or worse.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Specific Targeting: A killer that only harms crabgrass and not your lawn is high quality.
- Long-Lasting Protection: Pre-emergent killers that keep working for a long time are great.
- Easy Application Methods: Products that are simple to spray or spread make your job easier.
- Clear Instructions: Good products have easy-to-understand directions.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Weed Resistance: If crabgrass in your area is used to certain chemicals, some killers might not work well.
- Harm to Other Plants: A killer that damages flowers or desirable grasses is bad quality.
- Difficult Application: Products that are messy or hard to mix can be frustrating.
- Short-Lived Effects: Pre-emergent killers that stop working quickly won’t prevent future weeds.
User Experience and Use Cases
How people use crabgrass killer matters.
Most people use crabgrass killer in the spring. They want to stop it before it starts. This is called pre-emergent treatment. It’s like putting up a fence before the weeds can get in.
If you missed the spring window, or if crabgrass is already growing, you need post-emergent killer. This is for when the weeds have already arrived. You spray it directly on the weeds.
Some users like to use a combination product. This gives them two layers of defense. It helps ensure their lawn stays clear of crabgrass.
Always read the label carefully. It tells you when to apply the killer and how much to use. Following directions helps the killer work best. It also keeps your lawn healthy.
Crabgrass Killer FAQs
Q: What is crabgrass?
A: Crabgrass is a type of weed that grows in lawns during warm weather. It has a clumpy, spreading shape and can make your lawn look messy.
Q: When should I apply crabgrass killer?
A: You should apply pre-emergent crabgrass killer in early spring, before the crabgrass seeds sprout. Post-emergent killer is for when the crabgrass is already growing.
Q: Can crabgrass killer harm my good grass?
A: Some crabgrass killers can harm your lawn if not used correctly. Always choose a product that is safe for your type of grass and follow the instructions carefully.
Q: What’s the difference between pre-emergent and post-emergent crabgrass killer?
A: Pre-emergent killers stop crabgrass seeds from growing. Post-emergent killers kill crabgrass that has already sprouted.
Q: How do I know if a crabgrass killer is working?
A: For pre-emergent, you won’t see crabgrass appear. For post-emergent, the crabgrass will start to die and turn brown.
Q: Can I use crabgrass killer when it’s hot outside?
A: It’s generally best to avoid applying weed killers during very hot weather. Follow the product’s instructions for the best temperature range.
Q: Do I need to water my lawn after applying crabgrass killer?
A: Some products require watering to activate the chemicals. Always check the product label for specific instructions.
Q: How often should I apply crabgrass killer?
A: Pre-emergent killers usually only need to be applied once in the spring. Post-emergent treatments might need to be repeated if new weeds grow.
Q: Are there natural or organic crabgrass killers?
A: Yes, there are some organic options. They often use ingredients like corn gluten meal. These may not be as strong as chemical killers.
Q: What should I do if crabgrass killer doesn’t work?
A: If a product isn’t working, make sure you used it at the right time and followed all instructions. You might need to try a different type of killer or a stronger product.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!