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7 Best Granular Crabgrass Killers 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

The Andersons Barricade Professional-Grade Granular Pre-Emergent Weed Control - Covers up to 5,800 sq ft (18 lb)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,271
Coverage Area
Application Timing
Ease of Application

Most important from
5046 reviews

Coverage Area
The granules disperse effectively when watered, creating a strong barrier against weed seeds and ensuring uniform coverage.
Application Timing
After decades of trying various products, Barricade is the first to actually eliminate spurge with just two applications.
Ease of Application
The smaller granules get absorbed more quickly and effectively, without leaving stains on hands, clothes, or shoes.

The Andersons Barricade Professional-Grade Granular Pre-Emergent Weed Control is designed to prevent weed growth rather than eliminate existing weeds. It contains 0.48% prodiamine, a professional-grade herbicide, making it effective against a wide range of grassy and broadleaf weeds such as crabgrass, poa annua, goosegrass, and henbit. One of its notable strengths is its extensive coverage area, with an 18-pound bag treating up to 5,800 square feet, making it suitable for larger lawns or gardens.

Additionally, the DG Pro formulation ensures a higher particle density per square inch, which enhances its performance and distribution across the treated area. The product is ideally applied in early spring and fall, which aligns with the most effective timing for pre-emergent herbicides. However, a potential drawback is that it is not rainfast, meaning that rain shortly after application could diminish its effectiveness. Users may need to plan their application around dry weather conditions to ensure the product works optimally.

Considering ease of application, the granular form is user-friendly and can be spread using a standard lawn spreader. This product is best suited for users seeking to prevent future weed growth in large areas and who can manage the timing of their application to avoid rain.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,271
Coverage Area
Application Timing
Ease of Application

Most important from
5046 reviews

Coverage Area
The granules disperse effectively when watered, creating a strong barrier against weed seeds and ensuring uniform coverage.
Application Timing
After decades of trying various products, Barricade is the first to actually eliminate spurge with just two applications.
Ease of Application
The smaller granules get absorbed more quickly and effectively, without leaving stains on hands, clothes, or shoes.
#2

Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer, Pre-Emergent Weed Killer for Lawns, 10,000 sq. ft., 20.12 lbs.

Rating
10.0
Active Ingredients
Application Timing

Most important from
9082 reviews

Active Ingredients
Concentrated Halts works best compared to mixed products with fertilizer.
Application Timing
Works well till mid-summer, but a second round in early July might be necessary to prevent late-season crabgrass.

Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer is designed to prevent weed germination and is effective for a wide range of common lawn weeds such as crabgrass, foxtail, and chickweed. The product comes in a 20.12-pound bag and covers up to 10,000 square feet, making it suitable for both small and large lawns. Its granular form makes it easy to apply using a spreader.

Application can be done in early spring or fall, and the product is rainfast, meaning rain, snow, or freezing weather post-application will not affect its performance, making it quite versatile and convenient. However, it is not suitable for all grass types, specifically Dichondra or Bentgrass, which may limit its use for some users. The product is designed for pre-emergent weed control, meaning it prevents weed seeds from germinating but will not kill existing weeds. This requires timely and consistent application.

Scotts Halts is a reliable choice for those looking to maintain a weed-free lawn, provided they follow the specific application guidelines.

Rating
10.0
Active Ingredients
Application Timing

Most important from
9082 reviews

Active Ingredients
Concentrated Halts works best compared to mixed products with fertilizer.
Application Timing
Works well till mid-summer, but a second round in early July might be necessary to prevent late-season crabgrass.
#3

Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns + Crabgrass Killer Concentrate, 32-oz, 6-PK, Clear

Rating
9.4
Coverage Area
Application Timing
Rainfastness

Most important from
4937 reviews

Coverage Area
The product delivers reliable weed control when applied carefully, covering a wide range of weed types including crabgrass and nutsedge.
Application Timing
Multiple applications spaced a couple of weeks apart can keep the lawn weed-free throughout the growing season.
Rainfastness
Its rainproof quality within a few hours adds confidence that light rain won’t wash away the treatment.
Ease of Application
Using a sprayer instead of the hose-end attachment allows targeted application, enabling reseeding of lawn areas without long delays.

Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns + Crabgrass Killer is a liquid concentrate designed to kill crabgrass and over 470 other types of weeds without harming your lawn when used as directed. Its active ingredients are effective against both broadleaf and grassy weeds, making it a versatile choice for general lawn weed control. The product comes in a 32-ounce bottle with a hose-end sprayer, which makes application straightforward and convenient – just attach it to your garden hose and flip the switch to spray. This feature is great for covering larger areas without the mess of granular products.

It is recommended to apply right when you first notice crabgrass for the best results. Once applied, the formula becomes rainproof in about 3 hours, so light rain won’t wash it away, adding to its reliability. Since it is a liquid concentrate rather than granular, coverage depends on careful spraying to avoid missing spots or overapplication. Users may need to estimate the amount needed for their lawn based on experience, as the coverage area per bottle is not explicitly defined. This product suits those seeking an easy-to-use, effective crabgrass killer that also controls many other weeds, with timely application and proper spraying technique enhancing its performance.

Rating
9.4
Coverage Area
Application Timing
Rainfastness

Most important from
4937 reviews

Coverage Area
The product delivers reliable weed control when applied carefully, covering a wide range of weed types including crabgrass and nutsedge.
Application Timing
Multiple applications spaced a couple of weeks apart can keep the lawn weed-free throughout the growing season.
Rainfastness
Its rainproof quality within a few hours adds confidence that light rain won’t wash away the treatment.
Ease of Application
Using a sprayer instead of the hose-end attachment allows targeted application, enabling reseeding of lawn areas without long delays.

Buying Guide for the Best Granular Crabgrass Killers

Choosing the right granular crabgrass killer can be a bit overwhelming, but with the right knowledge, you can make an informed decision that best suits your lawn care needs. Crabgrass is a common weed that can quickly take over your lawn if not properly managed. Granular crabgrass killers are a popular choice because they are easy to apply and can provide long-lasting control. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a granular crabgrass killer.
Active IngredientsThe active ingredients in a granular crabgrass killer are the chemicals responsible for killing the crabgrass. Common active ingredients include dithiopyr, pendimethalin, and prodiamine. These ingredients are important because they determine the effectiveness of the product. Dithiopyr is known for its pre-emergent and early post-emergent control, making it versatile. Pendimethalin is effective as a pre-emergent but does not control existing crabgrass. Prodiamine is a strong pre-emergent that provides long-lasting control. Choose an active ingredient based on whether you need pre-emergent control (preventing seeds from germinating) or post-emergent control (killing existing crabgrass).
Coverage AreaThe coverage area indicates how much lawn area the product can treat. This is important because it helps you determine how much product you need to buy. Coverage areas are usually measured in square feet. For small lawns, a product that covers up to 5,000 square feet may be sufficient. For larger lawns, look for products that cover 10,000 square feet or more. To pick the right one for you, measure your lawn area and choose a product that matches or slightly exceeds this measurement to ensure complete coverage.
Application TimingApplication timing refers to the best time to apply the granular crabgrass killer for optimal results. This is crucial because applying the product at the wrong time can reduce its effectiveness. Pre-emergent products should be applied in early spring before crabgrass seeds germinate, typically when soil temperatures reach 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Post-emergent products should be applied when crabgrass is actively growing, usually in late spring or early summer. To choose the right timing, consider the current state of your lawn and the local climate conditions.
RainfastnessRainfastness is the ability of the product to remain effective after rainfall or watering. This is important because if the product washes away, it won't be effective in controlling crabgrass. Some products are rainfast within a few hours, while others may require up to 24 hours to become rainfast. If you live in an area with frequent rain or plan to water your lawn soon after application, choose a product with a shorter rainfast period to ensure it stays in place and works effectively.
Ease of ApplicationEase of application refers to how simple it is to apply the granular crabgrass killer to your lawn. This is important because a product that is difficult to apply may lead to uneven coverage and reduced effectiveness. Some products come with a built-in spreader, while others require a separate spreader. Consider your comfort level with using lawn care equipment and choose a product that matches your preference. If you prefer a straightforward application, look for products with clear instructions and user-friendly packaging.

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