Are dandelions, crabgrass, or clover taking over your lawn and driving you crazy? A selective weed killer can remove these unwanted plants while keeping your grass safe and healthy. ² This guide reviews the best selective weed killers for lawns, with tips on choosing the right product to eliminate broadleaf weeds, crabgrass, dandelions, and more. ¹ Keep reading to reclaim control of your yard! ³

How to Choose the Best Selective Weed Killer for Lawns

Picking the right weed killer isn’t rocket science, but it does require a bit of homework. Knowing what’s invading your lawn makes all the difference—which we’ll explore next.

Identifying the type of weeds in your lawn

Weeds fall into two main groups: annuals and perennials. Annual weeds live just one season, but can spread quickly through their many seeds. Summer annual weeds include crabgrass and foxtails, popping up in warm months. ¹ Winter annuals like cheatgrass or annual bluegrass start growing as it cools down, sticking around till springtime.

Perennial weeds are a tougher bunch because they come back each year from seeds and underground roots or bulbs. Dandelions, clovers, and ground ivy belong to this group; you might see them sprout again despite your best efforts at removal.

Knowing what type of weed is in your yard helps you pick the right selective weed killer for lawns that targets them effectively without hurting healthy grass. ¹ Next step involves choosing between pre-emergent or post-emergent solutions to tackle these pesky invaders head-on.

Choosing between pre-emergent and post-emergent solutions

Pre-emergent weed killers block weeds before they sprout. Apply them in early spring, before weeds have a chance to grow. Popular pre-emergent herbicides include Prodiamine and Dithiopyr; these products form a barrier that stops weed seeds from germinating. ²

Post-emergent solutions like 2,4-D attack weeds already growing on your lawn. Use post-emergents once you see weeds showing up to quickly knock them down and clear the grass again.

Pick this type if you’re dealing with existing weeds rather than trying to prevent new ones. ³

Understanding active ingredients and their effectiveness

Active ingredients are the chemicals in weed killers that target specific plants. For broadleaf weeds, ingredients like 2,4-D, Dicamba, and Triclopyr work well to control dandelions or clover without hurting your grass.

Glyphosate is a strong non-selective herbicide that kills most plants it touches—not ideal for lawns but perfect for clearing areas to replant. ⁴ Tenacity Herbicide has become popular as a “Reduced Risk” option; it’s tougher on weeds and easier on people and pets.

Application timing greatly affects ingredient performance. Using pre-emergent products early in spring can stop crabgrass seeds from sprouting before they show up at all. Post-emergent treatments require direct application onto visible weeds after they’ve appeared—it’s about choosing the right product matched clearly with your lawn’s needs at the time of year you treat them.

Assessing lawn compatibility and safety

Your selective weed killer needs to match your lawn’s grass type. For instance, Ortho Weed B Gon works safely on Buffalo grass, fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass.

Check the label first to confirm compatibility with your specific lawn before applying. ⁶

Safety is also key—pick a calm day between 50°F and 90°F without any wind. Keep kids and pets off treated areas for at least 24 hours after spraying to let it dry completely. Once you’ve confirmed safety points and lawn compatibility, you’re ready to think about ease of use and coverage area next. ⁷

Ease of application and coverage area requirements

Selective weed killers come in liquid sprays, granules, or powders. Liquid sprays like Spectracide Weed Stop can treat areas up to 5,000 sq. ft., making them ideal for medium-sized yards and easy spot treatments with simple spraying tools.

For larger lawns, products such as Q4 Plus Turf Herbicide offer wider coverage ranging from 12,000–18,000 sq. ft.; Quinclorac 75 DF covers even greater spaces—up to 43,000 sq. ft.—with straightforward mixing before treatment. ⁸.

Granular herbicides spread easily with standard lawn spreaders and suit large-scale use efficiently since there’s no mixing needed—just pour and walk your property evenly. Fusilade II Turf and Ornamental is a concentrated solution specially made for bigger lawns covering huge zones of between 53,000–80,000 sq.

ft.; expect some prep work involving proper dilution prior to spraying it evenly across expansive grass areas effectively without hassle or wasteful overuse of product..

Best Overall: Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D

Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D knocks weeds down fast and won’t harm your grass. Lawn care pros swear by it for solid results without emptying your wallet.

Features & Description (Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D)

Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D is a cost-effective herbicide for removing broadleaf weeds and woody plants from your lawn. This selective weed killer controls tough weeds like dandelions, crabgrass, and spurge without killing most common grasses.

It contains 3.8 pounds of powerful 2,4-D acid per gallon in a low-volatile amine form that reduces risks to nearby plants. A single bottle can treat up to 5,000 square feet effectively.

Use just 1 to 4 pints per acre or around 2-3 tablespoons mixed into a few gallons of water per each thousand square feet. At about $24—or even better at $22 on sale at Amazon and Walmart—it offers solid value if you’ve got nasty intruders popping up among the grass blades in your yard! ⁹

Pros & Cons (Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D)

Pros include an economical application rate of 1 to 4 pints per acre, making this weed killer budget-friendly for larger lawns. ¹⁰ It effectively targets stubborn weeds like dandelion, thistle, and cocklebur to keep your grass neat and healthy.

On the downside, use caution during application because this active ingredient may harm sensitive plants nearby. ¹⁰ You’ll need accurate spraying techniques to prevent accidental damage to desired garden vegetation or flowers.

Best for Broadleaf Weeds: Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer

If clovers and chickweeds treat your lawn like their personal playground, Ortho Weed B Gon can send them packing. It’s strong on broadleaf weeds but gentle enough to keep grass smiling—exactly what your lawn ordered.

Features & Description (Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer)

Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer comes ready to knock out stubborn broadleaf weeds on your lawn. It takes down tough plants like chickweed, clover and oxalis without harming grass. ¹¹ You won’t break the bank with this selective weed killer either—it costs around $15 at Amazon, Home Depot or Lowes for a 16-ounce bottle that covers up to 3,200 square feet. ¹¹ Mixing is simple: just add one fluid ounce per gallon of water for every 200 square feet you need to cover, and after applying it’s rainproof in 6 hours. Easy to use and gentle enough on lawns—but bad news for pesky weeds!

Pros & Cons (Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer)

Pros for Weed B Gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer include its safety on most common lawn grasses. It’s especially good at killing stubborn weeds like chickweed, clover, and oxalis that often resist standard treatments. ⁵

On the downside, you can’t use it safely on Bermuda grass, St. Augustine grass, or centipede grass. Plus, patience is a must—you won’t notice weeds dying until around six days after application.

Best for Crabgrass Control: BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer

Crabgrass spreading quicker than gossip at a cookout? BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer knocks it out fast, so your lawn stays lush and crab-free.

Features & Description (BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer)

BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer tackles stubborn crabgrass fast, with visible results soon after use. Its active ingredient, Quinclorac, kills crabgrass on contact and keeps it under control for up to 30 days.

It’s safe to apply on lawns like Bermuda grass, Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and ryegrass. ¹²

The product becomes rain-fast in less than one hour after application. You can grab a bottle now at $57.95—marked down from its regular price of $65—but keep in mind it’s not available if you live in New York or California.

Pros & Cons (BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer)

Pros include its strong ability to kill crabgrass and various broadleaf weeds, keeping your lawn neat with less effort. ¹³ After application, it becomes rainfast within just one hour, so there’s little worry about sudden showers washing away your hard work.

Cons involve the need for careful use since improper spraying can damage desirable plants or grass nearby. Also, check local guidelines before buying; Quinclorac—the active ingredient—faces usage restrictions in some regions.

Best Pre-Emergent Solution: Preen Garden Weed Preventer

Want to stop weeds before they even peek their pesky heads up? Preen Garden Weed Preventer tackles the problem early, keeping your lawn clear from day one.

Features & Description (Preen Garden Weed Preventer)

Preen Garden Weed Preventer helps you tackle weeds before they start. This pre-emergent solution blocks weed seeds from growing for up to 3 months, keeping your garden clean and vibrant. ¹⁴ It’s safe around more than 200 established flowers, vegetables, trees, and shrubs. A large bag of Preen Garden Weed Preventer weighs 31.3 lbs., priced at $53.65 from Home Depot—though new Home Depot Consumer Card holders can get a promotional offer of $28.65—or buy it on sale at Amazon for just $14 (regularly around $25).

Easy application makes this product ideal for gardeners who prefer less fuss in their lawn care routine with great results each season.

Pros & Cons (Preen Garden Weed Preventer)

With its formula made from 100% corn gluten, this weed preventer acts as both a natural herbicide and pre-emergent solution. Safe enough for use around pets and children, it’s handy for families who enjoy spending free time on the lawn without worrying about harsh chemicals.

On the down side, you’ll first need to clear away all existing weeds before applying it. The recommended frequency is once each month, which means regular upkeep can become tiresome over the long run. ¹⁵

Best Organic Option: Sunday Weed Warrior

If you want weeds gone but worry about harsh chemicals, Sunday Weed Warrior is a safe bet. It fights tough weeds naturally, keeping your lawn green and friendly for kids and pets alike.

Features & Description (Sunday Weed Warrior)

Sunday Weed Warrior is an OMRI-listed organic weed killer that knocks out problem plants quickly. It uses natural fatty acids to target unwanted weeds and algae, giving you visible results in just 20 minutes. ¹⁶ At $28 from Amazon or Target, this option offers great value with two handy 32-ounce bottles for easy application. Each purchase covers between 320 to 640 square feet of lawn area.

This weed killer suits those who prefer a clean and green approach free from harsh chemicals. It gives peace of mind if pets or kids play outside regularly since it doesn’t include harmful toxins found often in chemical sprays.

Just spray it directly on pesky weeds, watch them wilt right away, then enjoy your tidy and healthy yard again!

Pros & Cons (Sunday Weed Warrior)

For homeowners who prefer eco-friendly options, Weed Warrior is OMRI-listed for organic gardening. ¹⁷ It’s an organic weed killer that controls many weeds and even algae growth. On the downside, it’s non-selective, meaning it won’t spare your lawn’s grass.

Its coverage also runs small—only 320 to 640 square feet per bottle—which makes treating large yards tough and costly.

Other Selective Weed Killers Worth Considering

Still hunting for the perfect weed killer to suit your lawn? There are a few more excellent picks that might hit the sweet spot, so don’t stop here—check them out.

Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns

Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns is easy on your wallet and tough on weeds. This selective weed killer tackles pesky invaders like Japanese knotweed and Creeping Charlie without harming grass. ⁵ It costs around $28 at Amazon or about $39 if you shop at Walmart, so deals can vary depending on the store. After spraying, you won’t have to stress over sudden rainfalls—it becomes rain-resistant after just 15 minutes! ⁵ With Spectracide, there’s no sweating the small stuff; apply it quickly and move onto better things (like watching football).

BioAdvanced Southern Weed Killer for Lawns

BioAdvanced Southern Weed Killer for Lawns handles over 200 types of broadleaf weeds. ¹⁸ It comes ready-to-use in a handy, 1-gallon container to cover up to 16,000 square feet with ease.

If your yard has become a field day for stubborn weeds like dandelions and clovers, this weed killer knocks them out quickly without harming your healthy grass.

With its wide coverage area and simple use, BioAdvanced is ideal for yards big or small. The spray kills unwanted growth evenly across your lawn so you won’t need endless passes over trouble spots.

It’s one less headache when dealing with pesky weeds that refuse to quit no matter what you try next. Another solid option worth checking out: Monterey Spurge Power Herbicide.

Monterey Spurge Power Herbicide

Moving on from BioAdvanced, another solid choice is Monterey Spurge Power Herbicide, available in a 32oz pack for $67.99. ¹⁹ It tackles tricky weeds like dandelions, chickweeds, clover, and wild violet with a strong three-way formula: MCPA, Triclopyr, and Dicamba.

With just one easy spray application from Monterey’s powerful blend of ingredients, tough weeds start fading fast while your lawn stays healthy and safe. The product covers wide areas efficiently—a smart pick if you want to clear troublesome spots without harm to surrounding grass.

How to Apply Selective Weed Killers Effectively

If you want your lawn to thrive, you’ll need to apply weed killers the right way—it isn’t just spray and pray. A little prep, smart mixing, and careful spraying can make all the difference between a lawn full of weeds or healthy green grass.

Preparing your lawn before application

Your lawn needs proper prep before any selective weed killer reaches it. Skip mowing your grass at least five days ahead of applying weed treatments; taller blades help weeds soak in more herbicide. ²⁰ Check the weather forecast, and avoid choosing windy or rainy days for spraying, as this can wash away the product or blow it onto places you don’t want treated (like your flower beds!).

For granular products like Preen Garden Weed Preventer, water your lawn lightly first, so granules stick better to damp soil and work faster. A properly prepared lawn makes weed solutions far more effective—let’s dive into mixing and dilution techniques next!

Proper mixing and dilution techniques

Proper mixing and dilution keep your selective weed killer effective. Always follow the label closely, measuring each ingredient accurately in ounces or gallons. Tank mixing herbicides that target weeds differently helps stop resistant weed groups from forming. ²¹ Three main ways herbicides interact are additive effects (they work normally), antagonism (less effective together), and synergism (stronger impact combined).

Never estimate the water volume; instead, measure it exactly to match herbicide instructions for best results. Use a clean tank sprayer for accurate dosing and uniform spraying over your lawn’s targeted areas without unwanted damage or wasteful runoff.

Now you’re ready to spray smartly—here’s how to treat specific spots effectively!

Best practices for spraying and treating targeted areas

After mixing your selective weed killer, spray young weeds before they bloom or form seeds. ²² Keep the spray nozzle close to the ground, about 6-12 inches above weeds, to reduce drift and protect desired grass.

Use a calm day with little wind and mild temperatures between 60°F and 80°F for best results.

Spray each weed lightly yet evenly; avoid soaking your lawn to prevent grass harm. Use cardboard or plastic sheets around flower beds or sensitive plants as shields from accidental spraying.

Work slowly in small sections at a steady pace so that every spot of unwanted growth receives targeted herbicide application without wasting product.

Avoiding overuse and damage to grass

Stick closely to the product label and do not spray more than suggested. Overusing selective weed killers can lead to large brown patches in your yard, leaving grass distressed or dead. ²³ Non-selective herbicides, such as Roundup, destroy all plants—including your healthy lawn grass—so be careful about what you choose and how much you apply.

Use targeted sprays rather than soaking the entire area. Small amounts in steady hands will kill weeds effectively without harming nearby grasses; it’s all about control. Always allow enough time between treatments so lawns fully recover from any stress caused by herbicides.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Weed Killers

Using weed killers incorrectly can quickly turn your dream lawn into a yellow nightmare. Learn what mishaps to sidestep, so you keep weeds down and grass happy.

Using the wrong product for your weed type

Picking the wrong selective weed killer can waste time, effort, and money. Suppose you use a broadleaf weed killer like Ortho Weed B Gon but have crabgrass in your yard; you’ll see minimal results because it won’t tackle that type of weed. ²⁴ Always check your lawn carefully to identify what weeds are growing there before choosing a product. Misidentifying weeds and using the wrong herbicide may harm your grass or cause weeds to resist future treatments.

Incorrect application timing (season and weather)

Selecting the right product solves only part of your weed problem—you also need good timing. Applying pre-emergent herbicides like Preen Garden Weed Preventer too late limits their effectiveness; use these products in early spring before weeds emerge. ²⁵ Similarly, spraying herbicides on windy days can drift toward nearby plants and harm them. Spraying when rain is expected soon washes away treatments, wasting time and money—and gives stubborn weeds another chance to thrive. ²⁶

Over-application leading to lawn damage

Too much selective weed killer can create large brown patches on your lawn. ²⁷ Applying extra won’t give you faster results; instead, you’ll end up harming healthy grass. Sudden, dry-looking areas often mean you’ve used herbicide excessively.

Once this damage occurs, grass recovery may take weeks or months of extra care and overseeding to fix the bare spots. To keep your turf safe and avoid unnecessary headaches, follow best practices for handling these chemicals.

To steer clear of other common pitfalls with herbicides, let’s now explore mistakes like neglecting safety guidelines and poor application timing.

Neglecting to follow safety and label instructions

Overusing weed killer can ruin your grass, but ignoring safety guidelines is even riskier. Skipping labels on selective weed killers like Ortho Weed B Gon or Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D might harm your health. ²⁸ These chemicals must be treated with care; always wear gloves and a mask when handling them. Handling herbicides without protective gear exposes you to harmful fumes or skin irritation. ²⁵ Labels explain how much product to use, timing for treatment, and needed precautions—following these details protects you, your pets, children, and lawn from injury or illness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Selective Weed Killers

You’ve probably got a few burning questions about selective weed killers—don’t worry, we’ve got answers, so keep reading!

What is the difference between selective and non-selective herbicides?

Selective weed killers focus on certain plant types and leave other plants, like grass, unharmed. For example, Ortho Weed B Gon controls broadleaf weeds but spares your lawn grass. ²⁹ Non-selective herbicides are toxic to all plants they touch. Products such as Roundup kill every plant sprayed, including weeds, flowers or grass—so be careful when using them near lawns! ²⁹

How long does it take for selective weed killers to show results?

You might notice weeds wilting and fading in as little as 3 hours after spraying with some selective weed killers. Others work more slowly; glyphosate-based herbicides, for example, may take 7-14 days before effects appear.

Factors like weather, the type of weed you’re dealing with, and even how mature the plant is can affect this timeframe. Patience counts here since results don’t always show overnight.

Now you know about timing—let’s talk safety: Are selective weed killers safe for pets and children? ³⁰

Are selective weed killers safe for pets and children?

Selective weed killers can be safe for pets and children if you follow the guidelines carefully. Always check labels closely to know how long pets and kids should stay away from the treated areas.

For liquid weed killers, wait around 30 minutes until they dry before allowing anyone back into your yard. ³¹ With granular treatments, keep pets and children off the lawn for about 24 hours after applying it.

Keeping safety in mind means storing these products out of reach from curious kids or hungry animals. Make sure no one enters your yard during treatment, so everyone stays safe while weeds get sent packing for good.

Now let’s find out if selective weed killers can safely treat newly planted grass without harming growth.

Can I use selective weed killers on newly planted grass?

While selective weed killers can be safe for pets and kids, new grass is another story. Freshly planted lawns need gentle care, so avoid combo products like “feed, weed, and moss killer,” as these can harm tender seedlings.

Wait at least 6 to 8 weeks before treating stubborn weeds with spot sprays of a selective herbicide. This way your young lawn becomes strong enough to handle treatment without damage or setbacks in growth. ³²

Conclusion

Keeping your lawn green and healthy doesn’t mean waging war against weeds all season. The right selective weed killer can tame those stubborn invaders without harming the grass you cherish.

Facts about -Are selective weed killers safe for pets and children?, Frequently Asked Questions About Selective Weed Killers

– Wait approximately 30 minutes for liquid weed killers to dry.

Facts about -Can I use selective weed killers on newly planted grass?, Frequently Asked Questions About Selective Weed Killers

– Newly planted grass should not have feed, weed, and moss killer products applied.

– Selective herbicides can be applied for spot treatment if weeds persist after 6-8 weeks.