We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Pre Emergent Crabgrass Killers 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

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.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer with Lawn Food, Pre-Emergent Weed Killer, Fertilizer, 15,000 sq. ft., 40.05 lb.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,238
Application Timing

Most important from
6487 reviews

Application Timing
The product works best when applied early in the spring, before temperatures hit 55-60 degrees.

Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer with Lawn Food is a versatile product that combines weed prevention and lawn nourishment. Its key strength lies in its dual functionality: it not only halts crabgrass and other listed weeds but also fertilizes the lawn, promoting a fast green-up after winter. The product is designed for early spring application, making it convenient if you want to prepare your lawn ahead of the growing season.

This 40.05 lb. bag covers a generous 15,000 sq. ft., which is useful for large lawns. It has the benefit of being unaffected by adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or freezing temperatures after application, adding to its reliability. However, one should be cautious not to apply it on Dichondra and Bentgrass, which could limit its use for some users.

The product's broad coverage and combined weed control and fertilization make it a strong choice for effective lawn care, especially for larger areas.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,238
Application Timing

Most important from
6487 reviews

Application Timing
The product works best when applied early in the spring, before temperatures hit 55-60 degrees.
#2

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

Rating
9.8
Active Ingredient
Application Timing
Residual Effect

Most important from
8631 reviews

Active Ingredient
Using concentrated Halts is more successful than the mixed versions with fertilizer.
Application Timing
Applying this product correctly before crabgrass germinates ensures a crabgrass-free lawn all season long.
Residual Effect
This preventer works well for most of the growing season and is more effective than post-emergence weed killers.

The Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer is a pre-emergent weed killer designed to target and prevent the germination of various lawn weeds including crabgrass, foxtail, and spurge. One of its key strengths is its broad coverage area, efficiently treating up to 10,000 sq. ft. of lawn with a single 20.12 lb. bag.

Its granular form allows for easy application, and it can be used on almost all grass types, except for Dichondra and Bentgrass, which provides versatility for different lawn owners. The product's timing flexibility is also noteworthy, as it can be applied in both early spring and fall, and its resistance to weather conditions like rain or snow after application ensures consistent performance.

Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer offers good coverage and ease of use, making it a useful option for lawn care.

Rating
9.8
Active Ingredient
Application Timing
Residual Effect

Most important from
8631 reviews

Active Ingredient
Using concentrated Halts is more successful than the mixed versions with fertilizer.
Application Timing
Applying this product correctly before crabgrass germinates ensures a crabgrass-free lawn all season long.
Residual Effect
This preventer works well for most of the growing season and is more effective than post-emergence weed killers.
#3

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

Rating
9.6
Active Ingredient
Application Timing
Formulation

Most important from
4783 reviews

Active Ingredient
The product's prodiamine-based formulation is one of the most effective weed-preventive options available.
Application Timing
The Andersons Barricade is highly effective in preventing new weeds from sprouting, provided the lawn is pre-weeded before application.
Formulation
The DG Pro formulation ensures better coverage and performance, making it superior to other pre-emergent products.
Residual Effect
Using Barricade over several seasons significantly improves the lawn's appearance, as it helps deplete the weed seed bank in the soil.
Safety and Environmental Impact
The granules are easy to apply and do not leave any yellow-orange stains on hands, clothes, or shoes, unlike other products.

The Andersons Barricade Professional-Grade Granular Pre-Emergent Weed Control is a reliable product designed specifically for preventing weeds, not eliminating them. With 0.48% prodiamine, it offers professional-grade control and is best applied in early spring and fall. The granule form makes it user-friendly for homeowners who prefer an easy application process.

One of its standout features is the DG Pro formulation, which allows for more particles per square inch, ensuring better coverage and performance across up to 5,800 square feet. This makes it an excellent option for medium to large lawns. Additionally, being made in the USA adds a level of trust in its quality and consistency.

However, it’s important to note that it will not affect existing weeds, so users must ensure their lawn is weed-free before application. In terms of safety and environmental impact, the use of prodiamine is generally safe when applied correctly, but as with any herbicide, care should be taken to follow all instructions to avoid unintended harm to desirable plants and wildlife. This product is best suited for those looking to prevent a wide range of weeds, including crabgrass, in a proactive lawn care regimen.

Rating
9.6
Active Ingredient
Application Timing
Formulation

Most important from
4783 reviews

Active Ingredient
The product's prodiamine-based formulation is one of the most effective weed-preventive options available.
Application Timing
The Andersons Barricade is highly effective in preventing new weeds from sprouting, provided the lawn is pre-weeded before application.
Formulation
The DG Pro formulation ensures better coverage and performance, making it superior to other pre-emergent products.
Residual Effect
Using Barricade over several seasons significantly improves the lawn's appearance, as it helps deplete the weed seed bank in the soil.
Safety and Environmental Impact
The granules are easy to apply and do not leave any yellow-orange stains on hands, clothes, or shoes, unlike other products.

Buying Guide for the Best Pre Emergent Crabgrass Killers

Choosing the right pre-emergent crabgrass killer is essential for maintaining a healthy and weed-free lawn. Pre-emergent herbicides work by preventing the seeds of crabgrass from germinating, so timing and the right product are crucial. To make an informed decision, you need to understand the key specifications and how they align with your lawn care needs. Here are the important factors to consider when selecting a pre-emergent crabgrass killer.
Active IngredientThe active ingredient is the chemical component that prevents crabgrass seeds from germinating. Common active ingredients include Prodiamine, Dithiopyr, and Pendimethalin. Prodiamine is known for its long-lasting effect, making it suitable for early application. Dithiopyr not only prevents germination but also controls young crabgrass plants, offering a broader window of application. Pendimethalin is effective but may require more frequent applications. Choose an active ingredient based on the timing of your application and the level of control you need.
Application TimingTiming is critical when applying pre-emergent crabgrass killers. These products need to be applied before the crabgrass seeds germinate, which typically happens when soil temperatures reach around 55 degrees Fahrenheit for several days. Early spring is usually the best time, but this can vary based on your geographic location. If you miss the early window, some products with Dithiopyr can still be effective slightly later. Consider your local climate and soil temperature to determine the best application time.
FormulationPre-emergent crabgrass killers come in various formulations, including granular and liquid forms. Granular formulations are easy to apply using a spreader and are ideal for large areas. Liquid formulations can be mixed with water and sprayed, offering more precise application, especially in smaller or irregularly shaped areas. Choose a formulation based on the size of your lawn and your application preference.
Coverage AreaThe coverage area indicates how much lawn area the product can treat. This is usually measured in square feet. Larger lawns will require products with greater coverage, while smaller lawns can be managed with products that cover less area. Always measure your lawn before purchasing to ensure you buy enough product to cover the entire area effectively.
Residual EffectThe residual effect refers to how long the product remains effective in the soil. Some pre-emergent herbicides can last for several months, providing extended protection against crabgrass. Others may need reapplication within a shorter period. If you prefer a low-maintenance approach, look for products with a longer residual effect. However, if you are willing to reapply, shorter residual products can also be effective.
Safety and Environmental ImpactConsider the safety and environmental impact of the pre-emergent crabgrass killer. Some products are safer for pets and children, while others may have restrictions on use near water sources due to potential runoff. Look for products that are labeled as safe for your specific situation and follow all application instructions carefully to minimize any negative environmental impact.

FAQ