As we are all aware, maintaining a lush, green lawn can often seem like a never-ending challenge. It’s comparable to attempting to keep a perfectly white shirt spotless at a barbecue – an ongoing battle against the elements.
That's why finding the right crabgrass pre emergent product is crucial. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one for your lawn.
But fear not, because we've done the research and narrowed down the top 14 products that will help you win the war against crabgrass and keep your lawn looking impeccable.
So, if you're tired of constantly battling pesky weeds and want to ensure your lawn stays pristine, stick around to discover the best crabgrass pre emergent products available.
Key Takeaways
- Scotts Crabgrass Pre-Emergent & Fertilizer offers long-lasting control against crabgrass and other common weeds, with a coverage area of 17,785 sq. ft.
- It provides controlled release feeding for up to 8 weeks, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.
- It is not suitable for use on Dichondra, St. Augustinegrass, or Bentgrass lawns.
- There are other crabgrass pre-emergent products available with different features and coverage areas, so it's important to consider the specific needs and requirements of your lawn.
Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer (20.12 lbs.)
When seeking effective prevention of crabgrass and other listed lawn weeds, the Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer (20.12 lbs.) is an ideal choice for maintaining a healthy and weed-free lawn. This product effectively prevents the germination of specific weeds, including crabgrass, foxtail, spurge, barnyardgrass, and more. It can be applied in early spring or fall and is suitable for all grass types except Dichondra or Bentgrass lawns. The application isn't affected by rain, snow, or freezing weather, ensuring long-lasting weed prevention.
One 20.12 lb. bag covers 10,000 sq. ft. Additionally, customer reviews praise its effectiveness, although some mention minimal breakthrough in hard-to-reach areas. Remember, application timing is crucial, and following the directions is essential for optimal results.
Overall, this product is a valuable tool in maintaining a pristine and thriving lawn.
Best For: Homeowners and lawn care enthusiasts seeking effective prevention of crabgrass and other listed lawn weeds.
Pros:
- Effective prevention of specific weeds, including crabgrass, foxtail, spurge, and barnyardgrass.
- Long-lasting weed prevention with coverage of 10,000 sq. ft. per 20.12 lb. bag.
- Suitable for all grass types except Dichondra or Bentgrass lawns.
Cons:
- Possible minimal breakthrough in hard-to-reach areas.
Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer with Lawn Food (40.05 lb.)
The Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer with Lawn Food (40.05 lb.) is an effective choice for homeowners seeking to prevent crabgrass and nourish their lawn for a vibrant, weed-free yard. This product not only stops crabgrass before it invades but also feeds the grass for a fast green-up after winter. It's designed to prevent various listed weeds, including crabgrass, barnyard grass, foxtail, Poa annua, chickweed, and oxalis.
The application is recommended in early spring when the lawn is dry, and it isn't affected by rain, snow, or freezing conditions. However, it's important to note that it shouldn't be applied to Dichondra and Bentgrass.
The product has received positive feedback for effectively preventing crabgrass and improving the lawn's condition, although some users have mentioned the risk of applying too much and causing bare spots.
Best For: Homeowners with established lawns seeking to prevent crabgrass and nourish their grass for a vibrant, weed-free yard.
Pros:
- Effectively prevents crabgrass invasion
- Nourishes grass for fast green-up after winter
- Provides weed control for various listed weeds
Cons:
- Risk of applying too much and causing bare spots
Yard Mastery Prodiamine 65 WDG Pre Emergent Weed Killer – 5oz Bottle
For homeowners seeking an easy-to-use and effective solution to prevent crabgrass and other weeds, Yard Mastery's Prodiamine 65 WDG Pre Emergent Weed Killer offers reliable year-long protection. This 5oz bottle covers up to 6,000 sq ft, making it suitable for non-professional use. Its water dispersible granule (WDG) form requires mixing with water for application as a liquid spray, which can cover 1,000 sq ft per gallon. It effectively stops crabgrass, poa annua, and other listed weeds, providing better weed management results compared to other products.
While it takes about 2 months to see a reduction in annual bluegrass weed, user reviews praise its effectiveness in controlling weeds, although the grass may temporarily turn yellow. Its suitability for all grass types and its ability to dramatically reduce crabgrass and dandelions make it a valuable choice for maintaining a pristine lawn.
Best For: Homeowners looking for an easy-to-use and effective solution to prevent crabgrass and other weeds without professional assistance.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Prevents weed germination
- Dramatically reduces crabgrass and dandelions
Cons:
- Takes time to see results
Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts, Crabgrass Preventer (5,000 sq. ft., 10.06 lbs.)
As homeowners seeking an effective solution for preventing crabgrass all season long, Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts, Crabgrass Preventer (5,000 sq. ft., 10.06 lbs.) stands out as a reliable choice. This pre-emergent grassy weed killer offers season-long prevention of crabgrass and stops it before it starts. It can also be applied in the fall to prevent winter weeds like Poa annua, henbit, and chickweed. The coverage of one 10.06 lb. bag extends to 5,000 sq. ft., making it suitable for larger lawns. Application is straightforward, requiring dry lawn conditions and subsequent watering. The product effectively prevents the germination of crabgrass, foxtail, spurge, barnyardgrass, fall panicum, and oxalis. However, it's important to note that it controls crabgrass in its early stages of growth, not mature crabgrass or existing weeds.
Overall, it has garnered positive customer feedback and is a popular choice in the market.
Best For: Homeowners with larger lawns seeking season-long prevention of crabgrass and other grassy weeds.
Pros:
- Effective pre-emergent grassy weed killer for season-long prevention of crabgrass
- Can also prevent winter weeds like Poa annua, henbit, and chickweed when applied in the fall
- Good coverage with one 10.06 lb. bag extending to 5,000 sq. ft.
Cons:
- Controls crabgrass in its early stages of growth, not mature crabgrass or existing weeds
Fertilome Crabgrass Preventer Plus Lawn Food w/Dimension 20-0-3 (16 lbs.)
Best choice for homeowners wanting a two-in-one solution for preventing crabgrass and improving lawn health is the Fertilome Crabgrass Preventer Plus Lawn Food w/Dimension 20-0-3 (16 lbs.), which offers long-lasting results and can be applied later than other pre-emergent products.
This product not only suppresses crabgrass but also controls other annual grass and broadleaf weeds, providing a comprehensive weed control solution.
The nitrogen and potassium-rich 20-0-3 fertilizer blend enhances lawn health and resilience throughout the season. Its unique formula allows for application up to 4 weeks later than other crabgrass preventers, giving flexibility in timing.
Following the application instructions on the label is crucial for optimal results, and this product can be used as part of a regular lawn care routine.
With its effectiveness in suppressing crabgrass growth and improving overall lawn health, it proves to be a valuable addition to any homeowner's lawn maintenance arsenal.
Best For: Homeowners looking for a convenient two-in-one solution for preventing crabgrass and enhancing overall lawn health with long-lasting results.
Pros:
- Provides comprehensive weed control, suppressing crabgrass and controlling other annual grass and broadleaf weeds
- Enhances lawn health and resilience with a nitrogen and potassium-rich fertilizer blend
- Offers flexibility in timing with the ability to be applied up to 4 weeks later than other pre-emergent products
Cons:
- Application instructions must be carefully followed for optimal results
Scotts Crabgrass Pre-Emergent & Fertilizer, 50 lbs
This crabgrass pre-emergent product is ideal for homeowners with large lawns seeking long-lasting control against crabgrass and other common weeds while also providing essential fertilizer for their grass.
The Scotts Crabgrass Pre-Emergent & Fertilizer, weighing 50 lbs., covers a substantial area of 17,785 sq. ft. This product offers controlled release feeding for up to 8 weeks, reducing the need for frequent reapplication. It's best applied on lawns in early spring before the 4th mowing or before temperatures reach the 80s.
However, it's important to note that this product isn't suitable for use on Dichondra, St. Augustinegrass, or Bentgrass lawns.
Homeowners looking for a convenient and efficient way to protect their large lawns from crabgrass infestation while simultaneously fertilizing their grass can benefit from the long-lasting effects of Scotts Crabgrass Pre-Emergent & Fertilizer.
Best For: Homeowners with large lawns seeking long-lasting control against crabgrass and other common weeds while also providing essential fertilizer for their grass.
Pros:
- Provides controlled release feeding for up to 8 weeks
- Covers a substantial area of 17,785 sq. ft.
- Reduces the need for frequent reapplication
Cons:
- Not suitable for use on Dichondra, St. Augustinegrass, or Bentgrass lawns
Yard Mastery Granular Pre Emergent Herbicide – 45lbs
The Yard Mastery Granular Pre Emergent Herbicide – 45lbs is an effective solution for preventing crabgrass and other weeds, suitable for a wide range of grass types, except in New York. This product covers 15,000 square feet and contains 0-0-7 .38% Prodiamine. It's specifically formulated to prevent crabgrass in the spring and poa annua (annual bluegrass) in the fall.
However, it's important to note that it won't kill existing weeds and may require a post-emergent treatment for visible weeds. The application rate is 3 pounds per 1,000 square feet, and it's crucial to apply it in early spring and late spring to fight against weeds in late summer and early fall. Additionally, the soil temperature is a crucial factor in determining the timing of application.
Overall, this product has received positive reviews for its effectiveness in preventing weed growth.
Best For: Homeowners looking to prevent crabgrass and poa annua in their lawn without the need for immediate weed killing.
Pros:
- Effective in preventing crabgrass and poa annua in the specified grass types
- Positive customer reviews on effectiveness
- Coverage of 15,000 square feet
Cons:
- Can't be shipped to New York
Liquid Harvest Mesotrione Weed Killer – 32oz Concentrate
When looking for a potent pre and post-emergent weed killer to effectively eliminate broadleaf weeds and prevent crabgrass seed germination, Liquid Harvest Mesotrione Weed Killer – 32oz Concentrate offers a powerful and seed-safe solution for maintaining a healthy lawn.
This mesotrione concentrate is a broad-spectrum herbicide that targets 46 broadleaf species and grasses, making it effective in preventing crabgrass seed germination and eliminating a wide range of weeds.
It's noteworthy that this product is seed safe, allowing for overseeding before or after application. However, precision application is crucial due to its highly concentrated nature, and it may take 2-3 weeks to see full weed death.
While it may discolor and stun the growth of healthy turf, it will recover, and it's not recommended for stressed turf.
Overall, it's a potent and effective option with some considerations for application and potential effects on healthy turf.
Best For: Homeowners and lawn care enthusiasts seeking a potent and seed-safe weed killer for maintaining a healthy lawn.
Pros:
- Effective in preventing crabgrass seed germination and eliminating a wide range of broadleaf weeds
- Seed safe, allowing for overseeding before or after application
- Offers cost-effective alternative to professional treatments
Cons:
- Slower working than some other herbicides
Bonide Crabgrass and Weed Preventer (BND60400)
For those seeking a ready-to-use pre-emergent weed control solution that covers up to 5,000 square feet, Bonide Crabgrass and Weed Preventer (BND60400) offers a comprehensive and effective option for lawn and ornamental use. This product is designed to protect gardens and lawns from various weeds and crabgrass, including dallisgrass, henbit, knotweed, purslane, and speedwell. It's a trusted solution from Bonide, a reputable company known for providing high-quality products for pest problems since 1926. The product has received mixed reviews from customers regarding its effectiveness, with some reporting successful prevention of crabgrass when used annually. It's essential to consider individual lawn conditions and follow the application instructions for optimal results.
Overall, the Bonide Crabgrass and Weed Preventer (BND60400) presents a convenient option for those looking to maintain a pristine lawn.
Best For: Homeowners with lawns or ornamental gardens seeking a pre-emergent weed control solution for preventing crabgrass and various weeds.
Pros:
- Pre-emergent weed control for up to 5,000 square feet
- Controls over twenty different weeds
- Trusted brand with a history of providing high-quality pest control products
Cons:
- Mixed customer reviews regarding effectiveness
The Andersons Professional Turf Products Fertilizer 18-0-4 with .125% Dimension Herbicide
Ideal for homeowners with medium to large lawns, this crabgrass pre-emergent product provides season-long prevention and suppression of weeds while conserving root growth before summer. The Andersons Professional Turf Products Fertilizer 18-0-4 with .125% Dimension Herbicide offers a comprehensive solution for controlling crabgrass and other annual weeds before and after germination. This product not only prevents the need for early spring fertilization but also helps conserve root growth before the onset of summer, particularly beneficial for cool-season grasses.
With coverage ranging from 8,000 to 15,000 square feet, it's suitable for established lawns and ornamental turfs. Additionally, the fertilizer provides season-long control and suppression of crabgrass, broadleaf weeds, and grasses, making it an effective and efficient choice for maintaining a pristine lawn throughout the year.
Best For: Homeowners with medium to large lawns seeking season-long prevention and suppression of crabgrass and other annual weeds, while conserving root growth before summer.
Pros:
- Controls crabgrass and other annual weeds before and after germination for season-long prevention and suppression
- Prevents the need for early spring fertilization, conserving root growth before summer
- Provides season-long control and suppression of crabgrass, broadleaf weeds, and grasses
Cons:
- Requires careful application to avoid over-fertilization
Yard Mastery Dithiopyr Pre-Emergent Herbicide with Fertilizer (45 lbs)
The Yard Mastery Dithiopyr Pre-Emergent Herbicide with Fertilizer (45 lbs) is an effective solution for preventing crabgrass and other annual weeds while aiding in turf stress recovery with its 7% Potash content. This product provides a comprehensive approach to weed prevention, targeting crabgrass, annual bluegrass (POA Annua), henbit, hairy bittercress, and chickweed. Its 7% Potash content is particularly beneficial for turf stress recovery.
With coverage for 11,250 sq ft at the recommended rate of 4lbs/1,000 sq ft for fall, it offers a wide application range. However, it should be noted that this product can't be shipped to New York or Maine due to shipping restrictions. When applying the Yard Mastery Dithiopyr Pre-Emergent Herbicide with Fertilizer, it's important to consider ideal conditions and timing to maximize its effectiveness, as applying too early may require a second application.
Best For: Homeowners and professionals looking for a comprehensive solution for preventing crabgrass and other annual weeds while aiding in turf stress recovery.
Pros:
- Effective pre-emergent herbicide and fertilizer combination
- Contains 7% Potash for turf stress recovery
- Wide coverage range of 11,250 sq ft
Cons:
- Shipping restrictions to New York and Maine
The Andersons Dimension Pre-Emergent Weed Control with 18-0-4 Fertilizer (40 lb)
An effective professional-grade pre-emergent weed and feed, The Andersons Dimension with 18-0-4 fertilizer is a reliable choice for maintaining established lawns and controlling annual grasses and broadleaf weeds. It offers season-long control of pesky crabgrass and other common weeds. The addition of dithiopyr at a concentration of 0.164% ensures effective weed control.
This product stands out with its small particle size, allowing for more uniform coverage and effective results. Users praise its effectiveness, with many noting significant improvements in their lawns within a few weeks. The combination of pre-emergent weed control and fertilizer in one product not only saves time but also saves money.
While there have been concerns about its effectiveness in certain cases, the majority of users report positive experiences, making The Andersons Dimension a strong contender for keeping lawns pristine.
Best For: Homeowners with established lawns seeking season-long control of annual grasses and broadleaf weeds, especially crabgrass.
Pros:
- Provides season-long control of weeds and feeds the turf
- Small particle size allows for more uniform coverage
- Saves time and money by combining pre-emergent weed control and fertilizer
Cons:
- Effectiveness may vary in certain cases
Ikes Sandbur & Crabgrass Preventer (Quart)
For those seeking effective pre-emergent control of a wide range of weeds in their landscape, turf, and ornamental planting areas, Ikes Sandbur & Crabgrass Preventer (Quart) offers a convenient and reliable solution. This product provides outstanding pre-emergent control of over 20 broadleaf and 20 plus grassy weeds, including hard-to-control varieties like crabgrass, sandbur, and chickweed. Its easy-to-use packaging with a convenient tip and measure feature makes application hassle-free. Additionally, it serves as an excellent tank mix partner with post-emergent herbicides for added control. With positive customer feedback highlighting its effectiveness in preventing the emergence of sandspurs and minimizing stickers, it has garnered a 4.0 out of 5 stars rating. This quart-sized solution from Ikes is proving to be a promising choice for maintaining weed-free landscapes and lawns.
Best For: Landscapers, homeowners, and groundskeepers seeking effective pre-emergent control of broadleaf and grassy weeds in their landscape, turf, and ornamental planting areas.
Pros:
- Provides outstanding pre-emergent control of over 20 broadleaf and 20 plus grassy weeds.
- Easy to use with convenient tip and measure packaging.
- Can be used as a tank mix partner with post-emergent herbicides for additional control.
Cons:
- May leave a yellow residue that could be tracked indoors.
The Andersons Barricade Pre-Emergent Weed Control (18 lb)
Ideal for homeowners seeking long-lasting protection against a wide range of weeds, the Andersons Barricade Pre-Emergent Weed Control (18 lb) provides professional-grade weed control for up to 5,800 square feet of lawn. With its 0.48% prodiamine content, this product is labeled to prevent over 30 grass and broadleaf weeds.
The DG Pro formulation ensures better control of weeds, making it a trusted choice among top turf care professionals. It's designed for application in early spring and fall, effectively preventing weed growth rather than eliminating existing weeds. The positive user experiences and testimonials highlight its effectiveness in preventing weed germination and maintaining a pristine yard.
With its ability to address difficult-to-control weeds like spurge, the Andersons Barricade Pre-Emergent Weed Control stands out for its unique DG technology, ensuring a strong, uniform application of the active ingredient.
Best For: Homeowners with large lawns seeking long-lasting professional-grade weed control.
Pros:
- Effective in preventing weed germination
- Trusted by top turf care professionals
- Covers up to 5,800 sq ft
Cons:
- Designed to prevent weeds, not eliminate existing weeds
Are Crabgrass Pre Emergent Products Effective in Preventing Crabgrass Without Harming the Lawn?
When looking for the best crabgrass killers for lawns, it’s important to find pre-emergent products that effectively prevent crabgrass without harming the rest of your lawn. Look for products with a proven track record of success and follow the application instructions carefully for the best results.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Crabgrass Pre Emergent
When choosing a crabgrass pre emergent, we need to consider several factors.
These include:
- The application timing
- Effectiveness on weeds
- Coverage area
- User experience
- Product comparisons
Each of these points will help us make an informed decision for our lawn care needs.
Application Timing
What crucial factors should be considered when determining the ideal timing for applying crabgrass pre emergent products to your lawn?
- It's essential to apply the pre emergent in early spring before soil temperatures reach the point where crabgrass seeds can germinate.
- Split applications may be necessary in specific regions based on timing and climate.
- Additionally, it's important to apply the product when the lawn is dry to prevent the germination of certain weeds.
- Adjusting the spreader settings according to the specific product and ensuring proper coverage are also key considerations.
- Always follow the instructions on the label for detailed application guidelines.
Effectiveness on Weeds
Applying crabgrass pre emergent products at the right time in early spring is crucial for maximizing their effectiveness on preventing the germination of specific weeds in your lawn. These products effectively prevent the germination of various weeds, including crabgrass, foxtail, spurge, barnyardgrass, moss (except in California), Poa annua, henbit, corn speedwell, and chickweed.
Their season-long prevention and suppression capabilities ensure a weed-free lawn for an extended period. Regardless of grass type, these pre-emergent products are versatile and effective on all lawn compositions. Proper application timing in early spring or fall, before temperatures are warm enough for crabgrass seeds to germinate, is essential for their maximum effectiveness.
Coverage Area
Considering the coverage area is crucial when selecting a crabgrass pre emergent product for your lawn, as it directly impacts the amount of space the product can effectively treat. Understanding the coverage area helps in determining the quantity of product needed for a specific lawn or area.
It also assists in calculating the cost-effectiveness of the product based on the size of the application area. Knowing the coverage area helps in planning and applying the product efficiently without wastage or under-application. It also influences the convenience and practicality of using the product for different lawn sizes and types.
Being aware of the coverage area ensures that the product is utilized optimally, saving both time and resources. Therefore, when choosing a crabgrass pre emergent, carefully assessing the coverage area is essential for achieving the best results for your lawn.
User Experience
When selecting a crabgrass pre emergent for your lawn, it's vital to consider the factors that contribute to a positive user experience, such as ease of use and product reliability.
User experience goes beyond just the effectiveness of the product. It encompasses how easy and convenient it's to apply, whether it's in granular or liquid form, and how long it lasts.
Additionally, factors such as clear instructions, minimal odor, and pet safety can significantly impact the overall user experience. Understanding the user's needs, preferences, and concerns is crucial in ensuring that the product not only effectively prevents crabgrass but also provides a pleasant experience for the user.
A reliable product that's easy to apply and considerate of the user's environment can make a significant difference in maintaining a pristine lawn.
Product Comparisons
To compare crabgrass pre-emergent products effectively, consider the following factors:
- Coverage area and application rate: Make sure the product covers the required area and has the appropriate application rate for your lawn's specific requirements.
- Lawn size and needs: Match the product with your lawn size and needs to ensure it will be effective in preventing and controlling crabgrass.
- Grass type compatibility: Look for products that are suitable for your specific grass type to achieve optimal results.
- Customer reviews and feedback: Check customer reviews and feedback on the product's effectiveness in preventing weed germination and controlling existing weeds. This can provide valuable insights into its performance.
- Application timing and instructions: Consider the application timing and instructions provided for the pre-emergent weed killer to ensure it aligns with your lawn care schedule.
- Active ingredients and formulation: Compare the active ingredients and formulation of different products to determine their suitability for your lawn's weed control needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can These Pre-Emergent Products Be Used on All Types of Grass, or Are There Specific Recommendations for Certain Grass Types?
Yes, these pre-emergent products can be used on all types of grass, but there are specific recommendations for certain grass types. It's important to check the product label for compatibility with your specific grass type.
Different grass species may have varying sensitivities to pre-emergent herbicides, so it's crucial to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the best results. Always ensure that the product is safe for your particular grass before applying.
Are There Any Special Instructions or Precautions for Using These Products Around Pets or Wildlife?
We always make sure to follow special instructions and take precautions when using these products around pets or wildlife.
It's important to keep them out of the treated area during application and until it's completely dry.
We also store these products in a safe place, away from where pets or wildlife could access them.
Safety is our priority when it comes to using pre-emergent products around our furry friends and the environment.
How Long After Applying a Pre-Emergent Product Can I Expect to See Results in My Lawn?
After applying a pre-emergent product, we typically start seeing results in our lawn within 4-6 weeks. It's always exciting to see those first signs of improvement.
Keep in mind that factors like weather, soil conditions, and the specific product used can all play a role in the timeline for seeing results. We've found that staying consistent with application and following the product's instructions closely has helped us achieve the best outcomes.
Are There Any Potential Side Effects or Negative Impacts on the Environment From Using These Pre-Emergent Products?
We've researched potential side effects or negative impacts on the environment from using these pre-emergent products. While they're effective in preventing crabgrass, some products may have environmental concerns. It's crucial to choose products with low environmental impact.
Proper application and following manufacturer's guidelines can minimize negative effects. Regularly maintaining a healthy lawn can also reduce the need for extensive pre-emergent use. We prioritize environmentally-friendly solutions for our lawn care needs.
Can These Products Be Used in Conjunction With Other Lawn Care Products, Such as Fertilizers or Herbicides, or Are There Specific Guidelines for Combining Them With Other Treatments?
Yes, these products can be used in conjunction with other lawn care products, such as fertilizers or herbicides. However, there are specific guidelines for combining them with other treatments, so it's important to follow the instructions carefully.
Mixing them incorrectly can reduce their effectiveness or cause harm to the lawn. Always read the labels and follow the recommended application methods to ensure the best results for your lawn.
Conclusion
In the battle against crabgrass, these pre emergent products are the knights in shining armor for your lawn. With their powerful weed prevention abilities, they act as a fortress, protecting your grass from the invasion of unwanted intruders.
Choose the best crabgrass pre emergent that suits your lawn's needs, and watch as it becomes a lush, green paradise free from the clutches of pesky weeds.
