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10 Best Herbicides For Lawns 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Roundup Dual Action 365 Weed & Grass Killer Plus 12 Month Preventer with Pump 'N Go 2 Sprayer, 1.33 gal.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,392
Mode of Action
Formulation

Most important from
10824 reviews

Mode of Action
Killed weeds and unwanted grass within 2-3 days. Highly recommended and will definitely order again.
Formulation
Easy to use and does what I expected it to do. The spray, knobs, twists, and pump were straightforward and mess-free.

Roundup Dual Action 365 Weed & Grass Killer Plus 12 Month Preventer with Pump 'N Go 2 Sprayer is a highly effective herbicide designed to kill and prevent weeds for up to 12 months. It targets tough weeds such as clover, dandelion, crabgrass, and poison ivy. The formulation is a liquid that covers 400 sq.ft and is rainproof in 30 minutes, showing visible results within hours.

The Pump 'N Go 2 Sprayer with an extendable wand ensures accurate application and up to 10 minutes of continuous spray, making it user-friendly and reducing the need to bend over during use. However, this product is specifically suited for non-lawn areas like driveways, sidewalks, patios, and gravel areas, meaning it should be kept away from desired plants and grass.

Additionally, there's a notable environmental impact due to its potent formula. For those looking for ease of use and long-lasting weed control, this product is a robust choice, but it's crucial to handle it with care to avoid unintended damage to surrounding plants.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,392
Mode of Action
Formulation

Most important from
10824 reviews

Mode of Action
Killed weeds and unwanted grass within 2-3 days. Highly recommended and will definitely order again.
Formulation
Easy to use and does what I expected it to do. The spray, knobs, twists, and pump were straightforward and mess-free.
#2

Empero Nutsedge Killer (1.33 oz) by Atticus (Compare to The Leading Brand) - Halosulfuron-Methyl 75% Turf Herbicide - Kills Nut Grass in Established Lawns, Ornamental Turfgrass, & Landscape Areas

Rating
9.6
Type of Herbicide
Application Timing
Formulation

Most important from
816 reviews

Type of Herbicide
Effectively eradicates nutsedge while preserving the health and consistency of lawn grasses.
Application Timing
Requires a few applications but provides lasting and worthwhile results.
Formulation
Delivers precise dosing with easy measurement, eliminating the frustration of fixed-size packets.
Safety and Environmental Impact
Leaves lawns looking great without harming the desirable grass species.

Atticus Empero Nutsedge Killer is a specialized herbicide designed specifically to tackle nutsedge, a common and tough weed in lawns and ornamental turf. Its active ingredient, halosulfuron-methyl at 75%, is a professional-grade chemical trusted for its ability to reach deep into the roots and tubers, ensuring a thorough and lasting weed kill from top to bottom. This product is formulated as quick-dissolving granules, making it easy to mix and apply with water and a surfactant, which you need to add separately.

One of its standout features is its broad compatibility with many established lawn grasses, including both warm-season types like Bermudagrass and zoysia, and cool-season grasses such as bluegrass and fescue. This means most lawn owners can use it without fear of harming their grass. Another user-friendly point is that treated areas are safe for pets and people as soon as the spray dries, and the herbicide sets rapidly, becoming rainproof in just four hours—helpful if weather conditions are unpredictable.

It covers a large area (up to 5,000 square feet) with a small amount of product, making it economical for homeowners. Users must note that it’s not sold in all states (Alaska and Vermont are excluded), and it requires following the label for safe use. While Empero is effective against nutsedge, it’s a targeted herbicide, so it won’t control other types of weeds. Also, the need for an additional surfactant might be a small inconvenience if you don’t already have one. If you’re dealing with persistent nutsedge and want a reliable, easy-to-use herbicide that’s safe on various lawn grasses, Empero is a solid choice.

Rating
9.6
Type of Herbicide
Application Timing
Formulation

Most important from
816 reviews

Type of Herbicide
Effectively eradicates nutsedge while preserving the health and consistency of lawn grasses.
Application Timing
Requires a few applications but provides lasting and worthwhile results.
Formulation
Delivers precise dosing with easy measurement, eliminating the frustration of fixed-size packets.
Safety and Environmental Impact
Leaves lawns looking great without harming the desirable grass species.
#3

Roundup for Lawns₂ Concentrate, Weed Killer for Northern Grasses, Kills Crabgrass, 32 fl. oz.

Rating
9.3
Type of Herbicide
Mode of Action
Application Timing

Most important from
1366 reviews

Type of Herbicide
Roundup For Lawns₂ Concentrate offers a powerful yet lawn-safe formula that visibly wilts weeds like dandelions and clover within days.
Mode of Action
The product's rapid action is impressive, with weeds starting to die off by sunset when applied in the morning.
Application Timing
Despite the need for a second application in some areas, it reliably kills crabgrass while sparing yard grass, such as bluegrass.
Safety and Environmental Impact
Users appreciate that it effectively targets weeds without harming surrounding grass, ensuring a lush lawn.

Roundup For Lawns₂ Concentrate is a liquid herbicide designed specifically for Northern grasses, targeting a wide range of weeds—253 types, to be exact, including stubborn ones like crabgrass, dandelion, and poison ivy. This product is particularly useful for lawns with Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, and various types of Fescue, ensuring compatibility with these specific grass types. One of its key strengths is its rapid action; it starts working immediately and becomes rainproof in just 3 hours, meaning that users won’t have to worry about weather conditions shortly after application.

Additionally, it offers up to 3 months of weed control, which means fewer applications throughout the season. The concentrate form requires mixing with water, either in a tank sprayer or a Dial 'N Spray, which offers flexibility in application over large areas—up to 5,000 square feet per 32-ounce container. However, the need to mix could be a downside for those seeking a ready-to-use solution. While effective, users must follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging the lawn, as it targets weeds down to the roots.

On the environmental front, it's essential to keep in mind that like many herbicides, there are safety considerations that must be adhered to, especially around children and pets. Roundup For Lawns₂ Concentrate is a powerful ally against common lawn weeds, best suited for those willing to invest in careful application for robust lawn maintenance.

Rating
9.3
Type of Herbicide
Mode of Action
Application Timing

Most important from
1366 reviews

Type of Herbicide
Roundup For Lawns₂ Concentrate offers a powerful yet lawn-safe formula that visibly wilts weeds like dandelions and clover within days.
Mode of Action
The product's rapid action is impressive, with weeds starting to die off by sunset when applied in the morning.
Application Timing
Despite the need for a second application in some areas, it reliably kills crabgrass while sparing yard grass, such as bluegrass.
Safety and Environmental Impact
Users appreciate that it effectively targets weeds without harming surrounding grass, ensuring a lush lawn.

Buying Guide for the Best Herbicides For Lawns

Choosing the right herbicide for your lawn is crucial to maintaining a healthy and beautiful outdoor space. Herbicides are chemicals used to control unwanted plants, commonly known as weeds. When selecting a herbicide, it's important to consider the type of weeds you are dealing with, the type of grass you have, and the environmental impact. Understanding the key specifications of herbicides will help you make an informed decision that best suits your lawn care needs.
Type of HerbicideHerbicides can be classified into two main types: selective and non-selective. Selective herbicides target specific types of weeds while leaving your grass unharmed, making them ideal for lawns. Non-selective herbicides kill all vegetation they come into contact with, which is useful for clearing areas but not suitable for lawns. To pick the right one, identify the weeds in your lawn and choose a selective herbicide that targets those specific weeds.
Mode of ActionThe mode of action refers to how the herbicide affects the weeds. Systemic herbicides are absorbed by the plant and move throughout its tissues, killing it from the inside out. Contact herbicides only affect the parts of the plant they touch, requiring thorough application. Systemic herbicides are generally more effective for perennial weeds, while contact herbicides work well for annual weeds. Consider the type of weeds in your lawn to determine which mode of action is best for you.
Application TimingThe timing of herbicide application is crucial for its effectiveness. Pre-emergent herbicides are applied before the weeds germinate and are effective in preventing weed growth. Post-emergent herbicides are used after the weeds have already appeared and are effective in controlling existing weeds. If you are dealing with a weed problem that has already emerged, choose a post-emergent herbicide. For preventive measures, opt for a pre-emergent herbicide.
FormulationHerbicides come in various formulations, including liquid concentrates, ready-to-use sprays, and granular forms. Liquid concentrates require mixing with water and are suitable for large areas, while ready-to-use sprays are convenient for spot treatments. Granular herbicides are spread over the lawn and activated by watering. Consider the size of your lawn and the ease of application when choosing the formulation that best fits your needs.
Safety and Environmental ImpactSafety and environmental impact are important factors to consider when choosing a herbicide. Some herbicides can be harmful to pets, children, and beneficial insects. Look for products that are labeled as safe for use around pets and children and have minimal environmental impact. Organic and natural herbicides are available and can be a safer alternative. Assess your lawn's usage and choose a herbicide that aligns with your safety and environmental concerns.

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