Crabgrass can quickly take over a lawn, especially during warm seasons. The right weed killer targets crabgrass and related lawn weeds without harming your turf. This guide reviews five effective options and provides practical buying tips to help American homeowners choose the best product for their lawn type, climate, and application routine.
Summary of Selected Products
| Product | Brand | Type | Coverage / Size | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray | Ortho | Lawn Weed Killer | 32 oz | Kills crabgrass and broadleaf weeds; safe on many lawn grasses |
| Roundup for Lawns Crabgrass Destroyer2 | Roundup | Lawn Weed Killer | 64 oz | Kills crabgrass to the root; effective on tough grasses |
| Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer | Spectracide | Lawn Weed Killer | 1 gallon | Kills 470+ weeds including crabgrass; visible results in hours |
| Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1 | Scotts | Lawn Fertilizer + Weed Killer | 2-pack (4,000 sq ft) | Kills weeds and prevents crabgrass while feeding |
| Ortho GroundClear Weed and Grass Killer | Ortho | Weed and Grass Killer | 1 gal | Fast-acting, non-lawn-specific; great for patios and landscape beds |
Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray
Ortho WeedClear is designed for lawns and targets common broadleaf and grassy weeds, including crabgrass. The Ready-to-Spray formula delivers fast-acting weed control with results often visible after a single application. It is labeled safe for Bermuda, Buffalagrass, fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass when used as directed. This option emphasizes root-level control to prevent regrowth and aims to minimize turf injury when applied correctly.
Roundup for Lawns Crabgrass Destroyer2
Roundup for Lawns Crabgrass Destroyer2 focuses on crabgrass and grassy weeds with a robust root-killing formulation. It is designed for application on common turf types such as Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue. This product emphasizes effective control of stubborn crabgrass and compatible performance with established lawns when used as directed, offering a practical option for larger fertigation or spot-treat scenarios.
Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer (1 Gallon)
Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer is a one-gallon ready-to-use formula designed to address a broad spectrum of weeds, including dandelion, chickweed, clover, crabgrass, and yellow nutsedge. It promises visible results in as little as five hours when used as directed and emphasizes selectivity—killing listed weeds while leaving the lawn intact. This makes it suitable for homeowners seeking quick feedback on weed control without extensive mixing or application complexity.
Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer Concentrate
This concentrate version of Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer provides flexibility in mixing to the desired strength and area coverage. It targets listed weeds including crabgrass, dandelion, chickweed, and clover, with a broad-spectrum approach that can be adjusted for larger lawns or spot treatments. As with the ready-to-use variant, it aims to spare the lawn when used according to the label.
Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1
Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1 combines weed control, crabgrass prevention, and lawn feeding in a two-pack for up to 4,000 square feet. It controls a broad range of pests including dandelion, clover, dollarweed, ground ivy, chickweed, plantain, henbit, and english daisy, while offering preventive protection against crabgrass for several months. This option is suitable for homeowners seeking ongoing lawn health alongside weed suppression and crabgrass prevention.
Ortho GroundClear Weed and Grass Killer
Ortho GroundClear Weed and Grass Killer offers rapid weed control on non-lawn surfaces such as patios and landscape beds. It is designed for fast absorption on contact and provides results within minutes to hours, with rainfastness after drying. This product is not intended for use on active lawn grasses; it serves as a targeted option for areas where weed growth is undesired and where lawn-friendly products would not be appropriate.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
When selecting a crabgrass weed killer, consider these factors to ensure the product matches your lawn type, climate, and maintenance goals:
- Lawn compatibility: Read the label to confirm that the product is safe for your grass species (Bermuda, fescue, bluegrass, etc.). Some formulations are labeled specifically for lawns, while others are for ornamental beds and hardscapes.
- Active ingredients and spectrum: Different herbicides target broadleaf weeds, grassy weeds, or both. If crabgrass is the primary issue, choose a product with proven efficacy against crabgrass and its growth stages.
- Application method and timing: Ready-to-use sprays offer convenience, while concentrates save on cost per area. Timing matters: crabgrass is often most susceptible during early growth stages, but pre-emergent options can prevent germination in advance.
- Persistence and re-treatment: Some products provide residual control for several weeks, while others require reapplication after rainfall or mowing. Check label recommendations for interval spacing.
- Safety and entry restrictions: Consider pet and child safety, especially for treatments used on lawns and around living spaces. Note any waiting periods after application.
- Coverage and area: Match product size to lawn area to minimize waste. Larger lawns may benefit from concentrates with appropriate mixing instructions for efficient treatment.
- Non-lawn uses: For driveways, patios, and landscape beds, select products formulated for those surfaces to avoid unintended turf damage.
How To Choose: A Practical Comparison
- Fast results vs. long-term control: Ready-to-use sprays often show quick visual improvement, while some products emphasize prevention and sustained weed suppression over months.
- Crabgrass focus: If crabgrass is the predominant problem, look for products specifically listing crabgrass control and root-level action, including post-emergent solutions.
- Lawn safety: Prioritize labels that indicate compatibility with your grass type and avoid products with restrictions for your turf species.
- Convenience vs. cost: Consider whether you prefer a ready-to-use product or a concentrate that requires mixing, as well as coverage efficiency per quantity used.
- Integrated lawn care: Some products pair weed control with lawn feeding or preventive measures, offering a comprehensive approach to lawn health.
Across these options, homeowners can tailor their choice to the lawn’s grass type, the severity of crabgrass, and whether they want quick visual feedback or longer-term prevention. Always follow the product label for safe and effective use, and consider a combination approach if multiple weed challenges exist in different areas of the landscape.