5 Dirty Dog Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killers (2023)

Vanquishing the Weedy Invaders: The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer!

The Importance of Maintaining a Healthy Lawn

Having a well-manicured lawn boosts your home’s curb appeal. It provides a safe and comfortable outdoor living space for family and friends. Healthy lawns also benefit the environment by reducing carbon dioxide emissions, filtering pollutants from rainwater, and preventing soil erosion. Achieving a lush, green lawn requires proper maintenance, including regular watering, mowing, and fertilization. 

However, maintaining a healthy lawn can be challenging due to several factors, such as weather conditions, pests, and disease. One of the most common problems that affect lawn health is weed and crabgrass growth. 

The Problem with Weed and Crabgrass Growth

Weeds are unwanted plants that grow in areas they are not supposed to be, such as lawns or gardens. They compete with desirable plants for nutrients, sunlight, and water resources resulting in stunted growth or even death of the desirable plants. 

Crabgrass is an annual weed that often invades thin lawns or bare patches of soil. It germinates earlier than most grasses during springtime when the soil temperature reaches 55 degrees F. 

Weed and crabgrass infestations make your lawn look unsightly and are also challenging to get rid of once established. Hand-pulling them out is labor-intensive while using a lawnmower only spreads their seeds around, increasing their invasion further next season. 

Introducing Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer

Fortunately, there is an effective solution to weed and crabgrass infestation – lawn weed killers! These products come in different types, including granular or liquid concentrates that work by killing weeds from roots without harming your desirable turf grasses. 

This article will delve into how these products eliminate weeds and crabgrass while providing insights on choosing the best available products. We’ll share some expert tips for the application and preventive measures that you can take to discourage future weed growth so that your lawn remains healthy, lush, and weed-free. 

 Understanding Weed and Crabgrass Growth 

 How Weeds and Crabgrass Grow in Lawns 

Weeds and crabgrass are a common problem for many homeowners, but understanding how they grow can help you take the necessary steps to prevent them from taking over your lawn. Weeds typically start as seeds spread by wind or animals and can germinate in any area with exposed soil. 

Once the weeds have roots, they compete with your grass for water and nutrients. Crabgrass, on the other hand, is an annual weed that grows from seed each year. 

It thrives in warm weather when soil temperatures are above 55° F for three or more days and can quickly invade lawns during summer. Unlike other types of weeds, crabgrass doesn’t need bare soil to germinate – it can grow through thin areas of grass or cracks in concrete. 

 Different Types of Weeds and Crabgrass That Commonly Appear in Lawns 

Many weeds, including dandelions, clover, chickweed, thistle, and plantain, can invade your lawn. Each type has its own unique characteristics that make it difficult to control. 

Crabgrass is one of the most common types of weeds found in lawns across North America. It has a distinctive appearance with broad blades that grow low to the ground. 

Other common traits include its ability to tolerate drought conditions and its resistance to many herbicides. Other weed species commonly seen growing on lawns include broadleaf weeds such as spotted spurge or creeping charlie and grassy weed species like annual bluegrass or nimblewill, which could often be mistaken for regular lawn grass but grows faster than them. 

Choosing the Best Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer

Keeping a lawn healthy takes a lot of work, and one key to success is keeping it free of weeds and crabgrass. These unwelcome invaders can spread quickly and crowd out the grass, leaving brown patches that are unsightly and unhealthy. 

But with so many weed killers on the market, how do you choose the best one? Here are some factors to keep in mind. 

Effectiveness

The most important factor when choosing a lawn weed killer is effectiveness. You want a product that kills the weeds without harming your grass or other plants. Look for products that target the specific types of weeds in your lawn, as different products are designed to kill different kinds of weeds. How to handle crabgrass in your lawn will differ depending on where you live. Northern lawns and Southern lawns require different methods and different weed killers. This advice on controlling crabgrass from the University of Massachusetts may not be applicable for a Florida lawn.

Safety

Another critical factor is safety. Many weed killers contain chemicals that can be harmful if ingested or absorbed through the skin. Make sure to read labels carefully and choose safe products for you, your family, and your pets if they spend time on your lawn. 

Jump to Potential Health Risks of Chemical Weed and Crabgrass Killers

Ease of use

Ease of use is also an important consideration when choosing a weed killer. Some products require mixing or diluting before use, while others come ready to use right out of the bottle. Consider which type will be easiest for you to apply. 

Cost

Cost should also be taken into account when choosing a weed killer. While it may be tempting to go for less expensive options, remember that cheaper products may not work as well or require more frequent applications than more expensive ones. 

Reading Labels and Choosing Products

Reading labels carefully is essential when choosing a lawn weed killer. Labels provide important information about what types of weeds each product targets, how much to apply per square foot of lawn area, how often to apply it, and any safety precautions you should take. When choosing a product, look for one that targets the specific weeds in your lawn. 

Different products are designed to kill different kinds of weeds, so choose one that will be effective against the ones you’re dealing with. Consider the formulation of the product as well. 

Some weed killers come in granular form and are applied dry to the lawn, while others come in liquid form and require mixing with water before use. Choose the type that will be easiest for you to apply. 

Consider any environmental concerns when choosing a weed killer. Some products contain chemicals that can harm wildlife or leach into groundwater, so look for ones that are labeled as safe for use near bodies of water or wildlife habitats if these are concerns in your area. 

Top Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killers on the Market

The Chemical-Based Options: 

If you’re looking for a quick and efficient solution to your lawn weed problems, chemical-based weed killers might be the way to go. Here are some of the most effective options you can find on the market: 

• Roundup: Roundup is one of the most popular herbicides available. It contains glyphosate as its active ingredient that targets weeds down to their roots, making it one of the most potent options for long-term weed control.

• Ortho Weed B Gon MAX: Ortho Weed B Gon MAX is another highly effective herbicide option that targets over 250 types of weeds. It also leaves your grass unharmed and continues to work for up to six months after application.

• Tenacity: If you’re looking for a selective herbicide option that won’t harm your grass, Tenacity could be an excellent choice. It selectively targets broadleaf weeds and crabgrass while leaving other plants unharmed.

While these chemical-based weed killers offer potent formulas to tackle even the most challenging lawn weeds, they come with potential hazards. They could harm beneficial plants and wildlife if used carelessly or too frequently. 

The Organic Options: 

Suppose you prefer an organic approach or have concerns about using chemicals in your lawn. In that case, there are still plenty of practical options available: 

• Corn Gluten Meal (CGM): CGM is a natural pre-emergent herbicide made from cornmeal that prevents weed seeds from sprouting without damaging existing plants. 

While it works best when applied before new weeds emerge in spring and fall, it can also provide some immediate weed control.

• White Vinegar: White vinegar is a natural and affordable weed control option. 

It’s best used on small patches of weeds since it can also kill surrounding plants. Simply spray it directly onto the weed to kill it off.

• Puller Weeder: This tool is perfect for those who prefer manual labor to chemical treatments. It’s a simple yet effective way to remove individual weeds from your lawn without damaging your grass or other beneficial plants.

Organic weed killers are generally safer for the environment. Still, they often require more frequent applications and may not be as potent against severe weed problems. 

Customer Reviews:

Of course, before making any purchase, you should read reviews from other lawn owners who have already tried the product. Here are some customer reviews for popular lawn weed and crabgrass killers: 

• “Roundup did an excellent job of killing even the most stubborn weeds in my lawn”- Joe S.
• “Ortho Weed B Gon MAX was easy to use, and I noticed a difference in just a few days” – Emily L.
• “Tenacity was safe for my grass but still killed off all my crabgrass” – David M.
• “Corn Gluten Meal stopped most of my new weeds from growing, but I still had some persistent ones that required manual removal” – Sarah K.
• “White vinegar worked well on my smaller patches of weeds, but it also killed some nearby plants that I didn’t want to lose” – Mark T.

Remember that every lawn is different, so what works optimally for one person may be less effective for you. Finding the right herbicide for your specific lawn and weed type is essential to achieve the best results. 

Tips for Applying Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer

Safely Applying Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer

Following proper safety procedures is essential when using lawn weed and crabgrass killer. First, always wear protective clothing such as gloves, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt. Additionally, consider wearing goggles or a mask to avoid inhaling any chemicals. 

Another critical safety tip is to keep children and pets away from the treated area until the product has dried completely. Depending on the product, this may take several hours or even a whole day. 

Be sure to read the label carefully before applying the weed killer. The label will provide important information about how much product to use per square foot of lawn, how often to apply it, and any other relevant instructions. 

Timing Considerations for Optimal Results

Timing is crucial when applying lawn weed and crabgrass killer. The best time to use these products is typically in early spring or late summer/early fall when weeds are actively growing. 

Avoid applying weed killers during hot weather, as this can cause damage to your lawn. It’s also important not to mow your lawn for a few days before or after applying weed killer. 

This allows the chemicals enough time to be absorbed by the weeds and crabgrass before they are cut down. Ensure you don’t water your lawn immediately after application, which can dilute the product’s effectiveness. 

Wait at least 24-48 hours before watering your grass again. Following these tips for safely applying lawn weed and crabgrass killer while considering timing considerations can help ensure optimal results without harming your lawn or yourself! 

Preventing Future Weed Growth

The Importance of Proper Lawn Maintenance

Preventing future weed growth is just as important as getting rid of the weeds that are currently present in your lawn. And the best way to prevent weed growth is by maintaining a healthy and well-nourished lawn. The first thing you need to focus on is proper watering. 

Overwatering your lawn can lead to many problems, including weed growth, so watering your lawn correctly is essential. Another crucial factor in preventing future weed growth is mowing techniques. 

Mowing too short or too often can damage the grass and create an environment where weeds can thrive. Instead, aim to cut no more than one-third of the grass blade length at a time and keep your mower blades sharp. 

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Soil Testing and Fertilization

Soil testing can help you determine any nutrient deficiencies or imbalances in your soil that could contribute to weed growth. Based on the results, you may need to add lime or fertilizer to balance the pH level of your soil or add specific nutrients that may be lacking. Fertilizing your lawn regularly with nitrogen-rich fertilizers will help replenish any nutrients that have been depleted and encourage healthy grass growth while making it difficult for weeds to establish themselves. 

Organic Weed Control Techniques

Consider using organic methods for controlling weeds in your lawn. These options include using mulch made from natural materials like leaves or straw, hand-pulling weeds as they appear, and spot-treating small patches of weeds with vinegar-based solutions. One pro tip is mixing boiling water with salt and pouring it directly over stubborn patches; this will kill the root system without using chemical herbicides. 

Potential Health Risks of Chemical Weed and Crabgrass Killers

Chemical weed and crabgrass killers effectively control unwanted plants in your lawn but can also pose potential health risks and environmental concerns. In this section, we discuss the potential health risks associated with using chemical weed and crabgrass killers and provide alternative, more environmentally-friendly solutions for readers concerned about their impact.

Chemical Herbicides

Chemical herbicides, including those used for weed and crabgrass control, can pose potential health risks for humans and animals. Some of the risks associated with these chemicals include:

1. Skin, Eye, and Respiratory Irritation: Exposure to certain herbicides can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system, particularly during mixing, application, or cleanup [1].
2. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to herbicides, such as skin rashes or respiratory issues [1].
3. Long-term Health Effects: Studies have suggested that exposure to certain herbicides, such as glyphosate, may be linked to health issues such as cancer, endocrine disruption, and reproductive issues [2, 3].

Citations:

[1] Environmental Protection Agency. Potential health effects of pesticides?

[2] International Agency for Research on Cancer. (2015). IARC Monographs Volume 112: evaluation of five organophosphate insecticides and herbicides.  https://www.iarc.fr/news-events/iarc-monographs-volume-112-evaluation-of-five-organophosphate-insecticides-and-herbicides/

[3] Environmental Protection Agency. (2017). Glyphosate Issue Paper: Evaluation of Carcinogenic Potential. https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-09/documents/glyphosate_issue_paper_evaluation_of_carcincogenic_potential.pdf

Eco-friendly Alternatives to Chemical Weed and Crabgrass Killers

For those concerned about the potential health risks and environmental impact of chemical herbicides, there are several eco-friendly alternatives available:

1. Manual Removal: Hand-pulling weeds and crabgrass can be a time-consuming but effective and environmentally friendly method for controlling unwanted plants in your lawn.
2. Organic Pre-emergent Herbicides: Products containing corn gluten meal can act as natural pre-emergent herbicides, preventing weed and crabgrass seeds from germinating [4]. Apply these products in early spring, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Vinegar-based Herbicides: Acetic acid, the primary component of vinegar, can be used as a natural, non-selective post-emergent herbicide. Apply a high-strength horticultural vinegar solution (at least 10% acetic acid) directly to weeds and crabgrass, avoiding contact with desired plants [5].
4. Boiling Water: Pouring boiling water on weeds and crabgrass can effectively kill them without chemicals. Use caution to avoid burns and ensure the water does not come into contact with desired plants.
5. Solarization: Solarization involves covering an area of your lawn with a clear plastic sheet during the hottest months of the year. The heat trapped under the plastic kills weed seeds and crabgrass, making it difficult for them to grow back [6].

[4] Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. (n.d.). Corn Gluten Meal: A Natural Pre-emergence Herbicide. https://www.extension.iastate.edu/news/2005/mar/080601.htm

[5] Oregon State State University Extension Service. (2017). Horticultural Vinegar.  https://extension.oregonstate.edu/ask-expert/featured/does-vinegar-kill-weeds

[6] University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Soil Solarization for Gardens & Landscapes. https://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn74145.html

6. Mulching: Applying a thick layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips, straw, or grass clippings, can help suppress weed and crabgrass growth by blocking sunlight and making it difficult for seeds to germinate.
7. Biological Control: Some natural enemies, such as insects or microorganisms, can help control weed and crabgrass populations. For example, the milky spore bacterium (Bacillus popilliae) can be applied to lawns to control Japanese beetle grubs, which feed on the roots of grasses and create favorable conditions for weed growth [7].

[7] University of Maryland Extension. (n.d.). Milky Spore for Japanese Beetle Control. https://extension.umd.edu/resource/japanese-beetles

While chemical weed and crabgrass killers are effective, they can pose potential health risks and have negative environmental impacts. By considering eco-friendly alternatives, homeowners can maintain a healthy and beautiful lawn while minimizing their impact on the environment and reducing the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals.

If chemical herbicides are not for you, and the alternatives are too complicated or involve too much work, then be proactive and prevent those pesky weeds from invading your lawn.

Preventing weed and crabgrass growth

This section will provide specific recommendations for preventing weed and crabgrass growth rather than just reacting to the problem once it has already occurred.

Apply a Safe Pre-emergent Herbicide

One of the most effective ways to prevent weeds and crabgrass from growing is to apply a pre-emergent herbicide. These products work by inhibiting the germination of weed and crabgrass seeds, preventing them from taking root in the first place. Apply the pre-emergent herbicide in early spring, following the manufacturer’s instructions for proper timing and application rates.

Maintain Proper Soil pH

Ensuring that your soil has the right pH balance can discourage weed and crabgrass growth while promoting the health of your desired grass species. Most turfgrasses prefer a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Test your soil’s pH and amend it as needed, using lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it.

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Mow at the Correct Height

Mowing your lawn at the correct height can help prevent weed and crabgrass growth by providing a denser, healthier turf that outcompetes undesired plants. Different grass species have different optimal mowing heights, so research the ideal height for your specific type of grass and adjust your mower accordingly.

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Avoid Overwatering

Overwatering your lawn can create favorable conditions for weed and crabgrass growth, as these plants often thrive in moist soil. Water your lawn deeply but infrequently to encourage a healthy lawn and discourage weed growth. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week from rainfall or supplemental irrigation.

Fertilize Appropriately

Using the right type and amount of fertilizer for your lawn can help create a vigorous turf that outcompetes weeds and crabgrass. Follow a fertilization schedule based on the needs of your specific grass species, and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and other problems.

Overseed and Aerate

Overseeding your lawn with a desirable grass species can help create a dense turf that leaves little room for weeds and crabgrass to grow. Additionally, aerating your lawn annually can improve soil conditions, making it more difficult for weed seeds to take root.

Regularly Inspect and Address Problems Early

Regularly inspect your lawn for any signs of weed or crabgrass growth. If you spot any unwanted plants, remove them promptly before they have a chance to spread. This may involve hand-pulling weeds or applying a targeted post-emergent herbicide.

Preventing weed and crabgrass growth in your lawn is much easier than trying to eliminate these plants once they’ve taken hold. Following the recommendations outlined above, you can proactively maintain a healthy, weed-free lawn that adds beauty and functionality to your outdoor living space.

Conclusion

Following these tips can prevent weed growth in your lawn and maintain a healthy, lush, and weed-free yard. Remember to focus on proper lawn maintenance, including watering and mowing techniques, soil testing, and fertilization. 

Additionally, consider using organic weed control techniques to keep your lawn healthy while minimizing the use of chemical herbicides. With a little effort and attention to detail, you can enjoy a beautiful lawn free of weeds for years to come!