Is your beautiful green lawn being invaded by those stubborn, clumpy crabgrass seedlings? You’re not alone! That unwanted guest can quickly turn your perfectly manicured yard into a patchy mess, and fighting it after it’s already taken root can feel like a losing battle. Many homeowners find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer number of “post-emergent” crabgrass killers on the market, unsure which one will actually work without harming their grass.
Choosing the wrong product can lead to wasted money, continued crabgrass problems, or even damage to your lawn. But don’t despair! This post is here to guide you through the confusion. We’ll break down what makes a post-emergent crabgrass killer effective and help you understand the key features to look for. By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel confident in selecting the best solution to reclaim your lawn and keep it crabgrass-free.
Our Top 5 Post Emergent Crabgrass Killer Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer for Lawn & Turf | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
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Roundup for Lawns Crabgrass Destroyer2 | 9.5/10 | Check Price |
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Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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BioAdvanced 5 In 1 Weed and Feed | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
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Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Post Emergent Crabgrass Killer Detailed Reviews
1. BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer for Lawn & Turf
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of battling stubborn weeds that ruin your lawn’s appearance? The BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer for Lawn & Turf offers a powerful solution. This concentrate, featuring the active ingredient Quinclorac, tackles both grassy and broadleaf weeds after they’ve already sprouted. Its advanced water-based formula gets to work fast, and you can enjoy up to 30 days of weed-free turf. It’s rainfast in under an hour, so you don’t have to worry about a sudden shower washing it away.
What We Like:
- Fast-acting water-based formula for quick results.
- Provides up to 30 days of residual weed control, meaning fewer applications.
- Effective against a wide variety of weeds, including crabgrass, foxtail, and common broadleaf invaders like clover and dandelions.
- Works on both warm-season and cool-season turfgrass, making it versatile.
- Rainfast in less than an hour for reliable protection.
- Suitable for residential lawns, golf courses, and other turf areas.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires careful reading and adherence to label instructions for safe and effective use.
- Specific application instructions and personal protective equipment (PPE) are necessary.
- Some state restrictions, like New York’s spot application only rule, may apply.
For a visibly healthier and more weed-free lawn, BASF Drive XLR8 is a strong contender. Always remember to follow the label precisely for the best outcomes.
2. Roundup for Lawns Crabgrass Destroyer2
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of battling stubborn crabgrass and other grassy weeds that are ruining your lawn? Roundup for Lawns Crabgrass Destroyer2 is here to help! This powerful weed killer is designed to target and eliminate even the toughest invaders, so you can enjoy a beautifully green and weed-free yard.
What We Like:
- It really kills crabgrass and grassy weeds right down to the roots.
- This formula is tough enough for even the most stubborn weeds.
- You can use it on popular lawn types like Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue.
- It’s ready to use right out of the 64 oz. container, making application simple.
- The built-in trigger sprayer makes it easy to apply precisely where you need it.
What Could Be Improved:
- It works best on weeds that are actively growing and in their early stages.
- You need to apply it when daytime temperatures are between 45°F and 90°F for the best results.
If you’re looking for a straightforward solution to a common lawn problem, Roundup for Lawns Crabgrass Destroyer2 is a solid choice. It tackles those pesky grassy weeds effectively, helping you reclaim your lawn’s beauty.
3. Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray
Rating: 9.1/10
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 tackles tough lawn invaders like crabgrass, dandelions, and clover, leaving your grass healthy and green. It’s designed for ease of use with a convenient ready-to-spray bottle, making lawn care simpler.
What We Like:
- Effectively kills a wide range of common lawn weeds, including crabgrass, dandelions, chickweed, clover, and foxtail.
- Works fast, showing results with just one application.
- Safe for most common lawn grasses when used as directed, including Bermudagrass, Fescues, and Kentucky Bluegrass.
- The ready-to-spray bottle easily connects to your garden hose for quick and simple application.
- One 32 oz. bottle can treat a large area, up to 5,000 square feet.
What Could Be Improved:
- This product is not available in Florida, Guam, Hawaii, or Louisiana.
- It’s most effective on young, actively growing weeds.
For a weed-free lawn, the Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer is a solid choice. It offers a straightforward solution to common lawn problems.
4. BioAdvanced 5 In 1 Weed and Feed
Rating: 9.1/10
Tired of battling stubborn weeds that ruin your lawn’s appearance? The BioAdvanced 5 In 1 Weed and Feed, Granules, 9.6LB is here to help you achieve a healthier, greener yard with less effort. This powerful formula tackles your weed problems head-on while feeding your grass, offering a complete lawn care solution.
What We Like:
- It kills tough weeds, even the hard-to-get-rid-of ones.
- It stops new weeds from growing, like crabgrass and dandelions.
- It specifically targets and kills large crabgrass down to the root.
- It prevents new crabgrass and other weeds without hurting your grass.
- It makes your lawn greener and healthier for up to 3 months.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product is a granule, which might require a spreader for even application.
- It targets specific listed weeds, so it might not cover every single type of weed.
This BioAdvanced 5 In 1 Weed and Feed offers a straightforward way to a beautiful lawn. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a weed-free, vibrant yard.
5. Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of battling stubborn weeds that choke out your beautiful lawn? Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer is here to help! This powerful, ready-to-use formula tackles over 470 different weed types, including common nuisances like dandelion, chickweed, and clover, as well as tough invaders like crabgrass and yellow nutsedge. Best of all, it’s designed to kill weeds without harming your grass when used as directed.
What We Like:
- It kills weeds, not your lawn, so your grass stays healthy.
- You can see results fast, often in just 5 hours!
- It’s a workhorse, killing more than 470 types of weeds listed on the label.
- It gets to the root of the problem, killing weeds all the way down.
- No mixing needed – just grab the bottle and go!
What Could Be Improved:
- The label lists many weeds, but it’s always good to double-check if your specific weed is included.
- While it kills weeds, sometimes persistent weeds might need a second application depending on the severity.
This Spectracide product offers a convenient and effective way to achieve a weed-free lawn. Enjoy your green space without the constant worry of unwanted invaders.
Conquer Crabgrass: Your Essential Buying Guide
Crabgrass can be a lawn’s worst enemy. It pops up like an unwelcome guest, choking out your healthy grass. But don’t worry! A good post-emergent crabgrass killer can help you reclaim your lawn. This guide will help you choose the right one.
What to Look For: Key Features
When you’re shopping for a post-emergent crabgrass killer, keep these important features in mind:
- Effectiveness: The most important thing is that it actually kills crabgrass. Look for products that are known to work well.
- Speed of Action: Some killers work faster than others. If you want to see results quickly, check how fast the product starts working.
- Safety for Your Lawn: You want to kill crabgrass, not your good grass! Make sure the product is safe for the type of grass you have.
- Ease of Use: Is it a spray, a granular product, or something else? Choose what’s easiest for you to apply.
- Longevity: Does it just kill the crabgrass you see, or does it help prevent more from growing? Some products offer longer-lasting control.
Important Materials to Consider
The “active ingredients” are what actually do the work. Different products use different chemicals. Some common ones include:
- Quinclorac: This is a popular ingredient that targets crabgrass effectively. It’s often safe for many types of lawn grass.
- Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl: Another strong ingredient that works well on crabgrass.
- Mesotrione: This ingredient can kill crabgrass and also helps improve the color of your lawn.
Always check the product label for the specific active ingredients and their percentages.
Factors That Affect Quality
Not all crabgrass killers are created equal. Here’s what can make a product better or worse:
- Formulation: Is it a liquid concentrate you mix with water, or is it ready to spray? Ready-to-use sprays are simpler for beginners. Granular products can be good for larger areas.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often have more research and development behind their products. This can mean better quality.
- Reviews: What do other people say about the product? Real-user reviews can tell you a lot about how well it works in different situations.
- Environmental Impact: Some products are more eco-friendly than others. If this is important to you, look for products with lower environmental impact.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the product matters. Here are some things to think about:
- Application Method: Most post-emergent killers are sprayed directly onto the crabgrass. You’ll usually need a garden sprayer. Some come in hose-end sprayers for easy application.
- Timing is Key: Post-emergent killers work best when the crabgrass is young and actively growing. Applying it too late might not be as effective. It’s usually best to apply when temperatures are mild, not too hot or too cold.
- Targeting the Weed: You want to spray the crabgrass directly. Avoid spraying your desired lawn grass too much.
- Follow Instructions: Always read and follow the instructions on the product label. This ensures you use it safely and effectively. You might need to water your lawn before or after application, or avoid mowing for a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions: Your Crabgrass Killer Q&A
Q: When is the best time to use a post-emergent crabgrass killer?
A: The best time is when the crabgrass is young and actively growing, usually in the late spring or early summer. Avoid applying when temperatures are very hot or very cold.
Q: Will a post-emergent killer harm my other lawn grass?
A: Most good post-emergent crabgrass killers are designed to be safe for established lawn grasses. Always check the product label to make sure it’s safe for your specific type of grass.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: Results can vary, but you should start to see the crabgrass wilting or dying within a few days to a week.
Q: Can I use a post-emergent killer if I have pets or children?
A: Many products are safe to use around pets and children once they have dried. Always follow the instructions on the label regarding re-entry times.
Q: What’s the difference between pre-emergent and post-emergent crabgrass killers?
A: Pre-emergent killers stop crabgrass seeds from sprouting. Post-emergent killers kill crabgrass that has already grown.
Q: Do I need to water my lawn after applying?
A: Some products require watering before or after application for best results. Check the product instructions.
Q: How much product do I need for my yard?
A: The amount needed depends on the size of your yard and the product’s coverage rate. Check the label for specific mixing and application rates.
Q: Can I use a post-emergent killer on a new lawn?
A: It’s generally not recommended to use post-emergent killers on newly seeded or sodded lawns. Wait until the grass is well-established.
Q: What if the crabgrass is already brown and dead?
A: Post-emergent killers work best on actively growing weeds. If the crabgrass is already dead or dormant, the product may not be effective.
Q: How often should I apply a post-emergent crabgrass killer?
A: You may need to apply it more than once for complete control, especially if you have a severe infestation. Follow the label’s recommendations for repeat applications.
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.