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10 Best Chemical Crabgrass Killers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1 - Weed Killer, Crabgrass Preventer, Lawn Fertilizer, 4,000 sq. ft. (2-Pack)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,294
Lawn Compatibility
Ease of Use

Most important from
2198 reviews

Lawn Compatibility
Your lawn’s about to get a makeover worthy of a high-end spa day with Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action.
Ease of Use
Easy to apply—no special skills required, just sprinkle it and let it work its magic.

The Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1 offers a comprehensive solution for anyone seeking to maintain a healthy, weed-free lawn. This product stands out with its three-in-one formula that not only kills common weeds like dandelions and clover but also prevents crabgrass for up to 4 months while simultaneously fertilizing the lawn. This combination can be very efficient for maintaining a lush, green yard without the need for multiple separate treatments.

The product is designed for use on a variety of common lawn grasses, including Bahiagrass, Centipedegrass, and Kentucky Bluegrass, making it quite versatile. It comes in granular form, which is easy to apply using a Scotts spreader, and requires watering in after 24 hours for best results. Timing the application in spring when dandelions are actively growing is crucial for effectiveness. However, it's important to note that this product won't kill existing crabgrass, which may require additional treatments if already present.

Additionally, it's not available for purchase in several regions, including AK, HI, PR, GU, and VI. Environmentally, the impact of such chemical treatments should be considered, especially regarding potential effects on non-target plants and soil health. Users should also consider the ease of use and follow the application instructions carefully to avoid potential misapplication. The Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1 is a strong contender for those who want a multipurpose product that handles weeds, crabgrass prevention, and lawn feeding in one package.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,294
Lawn Compatibility
Ease of Use

Most important from
2198 reviews

Lawn Compatibility
Your lawn’s about to get a makeover worthy of a high-end spa day with Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action.
Ease of Use
Easy to apply—no special skills required, just sprinkle it and let it work its magic.
#2

Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Concentrate 32 oz. with Dial N Spray Hose-End Sprayer, Kills Crabgrass, Dandelion, Clover and Chickweed

Rating
9.8
Environmental Impact

Most important from
16562 reviews

Environmental Impact
Environmental responsibility is crucial when using the sprayer, as concentrates may pollute waterways.

The Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Concentrate with Dial N Spray Hose-End Sprayer offers a convenient solution for tackling crabgrass and a variety of other weeds. The ease of application is one of its standout features, as it comes with a sprayer that connects directly to your garden hose, making the process simple and efficient. The product is rainproof within an hour, allowing for flexibility in application and quick results, often visible after just one treatment.

One of the key strengths of this product is its compatibility with lawns. When used as directed, it targets over 200 types of weeds without harming the grass, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy lawn. With coverage of up to 5,000 square feet, a single bottle can handle large areas, making it a cost-effective option for homeowners with extensive lawns.

However, potential users should be mindful of the environmental impact, as chemical weed killers can affect surrounding plants and ecosystems if not used carefully. It's essential to follow the label instructions to minimize any negative effects. Additionally, while the product is designed to be easy to use, those new to lawn care might need a bit of practice to adjust the sprayer settings correctly.

In terms of formulation, the liquid concentrate is effective but requires careful handling and storage. The product's popularity, reflected in high customer ratings and sales rank, suggests it is well-received by users, indicating reliability and satisfaction with performance. This weed killer is suitable for those looking for a powerful, easy-to-use solution to control widespread weed problems in their lawns.

Rating
9.8
Environmental Impact

Most important from
16562 reviews

Environmental Impact
Environmental responsibility is crucial when using the sprayer, as concentrates may pollute waterways.
#3

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

Rating
9.6
Application Timing
Lawn Compatibility

Most important from
6417 reviews

Application Timing
Putting this fertilizer down early, before temperatures reach 55-60 degrees, is key to its effectiveness in controlling crabgrass.
Lawn Compatibility
This lawn food stopped the crabgrass from coming up and made my lawn green and thick in just a few weeks, even with changing weather.

The Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer with Lawn Food is designed to serve a dual purpose: preventing crabgrass and other listed weeds while fertilizing your lawn for a fast green-up after winter. It is most effective when applied early in the spring to a dry lawn before the temperature regularly hits the 80s. One of its standout features is its extensive coverage, capable of treating up to 15,000 sq. ft., making it suitable for larger lawns.

However, it's important to note that it should not be used on Dichondra and Bentgrass lawns as it may harm these types of grass. The product's formulation ensures that adverse weather conditions like rain or snow won't impact its effectiveness, which adds to its ease of use. While it is efficient in preventing a wide range of weeds, users should be aware of the environmental impact of using chemical treatments on lawns.

This product offers convenience and reliability for those looking to both nourish their lawn and keep crabgrass at bay, provided it is applied at the correct time and on compatible lawn types.

Rating
9.6
Application Timing
Lawn Compatibility

Most important from
6417 reviews

Application Timing
Putting this fertilizer down early, before temperatures reach 55-60 degrees, is key to its effectiveness in controlling crabgrass.
Lawn Compatibility
This lawn food stopped the crabgrass from coming up and made my lawn green and thick in just a few weeks, even with changing weather.

Buying Guide for the Best Chemical Crabgrass Killers

Choosing the right chemical crabgrass killer can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs. Crabgrass is a common weed that can take over your lawn if not properly managed. Chemical crabgrass killers are designed to target and eliminate this weed, but there are several factors to consider to ensure you select the most effective product for your situation. Understanding the key specifications and how they relate to your lawn care needs will help you make the best choice.
Active IngredientThe active ingredient in a chemical crabgrass killer is the component that targets and kills the crabgrass. This is important because different active ingredients work in different ways and have varying levels of effectiveness. Common active ingredients include Quinclorac, Dithiopyr, and Pendimethalin. Quinclorac is effective on mature crabgrass, while Dithiopyr and Pendimethalin are pre-emergent herbicides that prevent crabgrass seeds from germinating. Choose an active ingredient based on whether you need to treat existing crabgrass or prevent new growth.
Application TimingThe timing of application is crucial for the effectiveness of the crabgrass killer. Pre-emergent herbicides should be applied before the crabgrass seeds germinate, typically in early spring. Post-emergent herbicides are used to kill crabgrass that has already sprouted and should be applied when the crabgrass is actively growing. Understanding the growth cycle of crabgrass in your area will help you determine the best time to apply the product for maximum effectiveness.
Formulation TypeChemical crabgrass killers come in various formulations, including liquid, granular, and ready-to-use sprays. Liquid formulations are often mixed with water and applied using a sprayer, providing even coverage and quick absorption. Granular formulations are spread over the lawn and are activated by watering, making them easy to apply. Ready-to-use sprays are convenient for spot treatments. Choose a formulation type based on the size of the area you need to treat and your preferred method of application.
Lawn CompatibilityNot all crabgrass killers are suitable for all types of lawns. Some products may damage certain grass species while being safe for others. It's important to check the label to ensure the product is compatible with your lawn type. For example, some herbicides are safe for use on cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass but may harm warm-season grasses like Bermuda grass. Knowing your lawn type will help you select a product that will effectively kill crabgrass without damaging your lawn.
Environmental ImpactThe environmental impact of a chemical crabgrass killer is an important consideration, especially if you have pets, children, or a garden. Some products may contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment, water sources, or non-target plants and animals. Look for products that are labeled as environmentally friendly or have lower toxicity levels. If minimizing environmental impact is a priority for you, consider choosing a product with natural or organic ingredients.
Ease of UseThe ease of use of a crabgrass killer can affect how likely you are to apply it correctly and consistently. Products that are easy to measure, mix, and apply can save you time and effort. Consider whether you prefer a product that requires minimal preparation, such as a ready-to-use spray, or if you are comfortable with mixing and applying a liquid concentrate. The easier a product is to use, the more likely you are to achieve the desired results.

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