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10 Best 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
10.0
Chosen by1,461
Type of Crabgrass Killer
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility

Most important from
2847 reviews

Type of Crabgrass Killer
If you have a weed problem that’s basically a garden full of exotic plants, this might not be a one-size-fits-all solution.
Application Method
Easy to apply—no special skills required, just sprinkle it and let it work its magic.
Lawn Compatibility
Kills weeds, prevents new ones from coming back, and fertilizes your lawn like it’s on a mission.
Ease of Use
Easy to apply—no special skills required, just sprinkle it and let it work its magic.

Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1 is a versatile product that serves as a weed killer, crabgrass preventer, and lawn fertilizer, making it suitable for homeowners looking to maintain a healthy lawn. One of its key strengths is its three-in-one formula, which not only targets various common weeds like dandelions and clover but also provides essential nutrients to encourage thick, green grass. It effectively prevents crabgrass for up to four months, allowing you to enjoy a weed-free lawn during the growing season.

This product is compatible with several types of grass, including Kentucky Bluegrass and Bermudagrass, making it a flexible option for diverse lawns. The application method is straightforward: you apply it to a wet lawn using a Scotts spreader and water it in, which is user-friendly for homeowners.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. One limitation is that it does not kill existing crabgrass, so it’s most effective as a preventive measure rather than a solution for an already infested lawn. Additionally, it can only be used in specific states, excluding places like Alaska and Hawaii, which could limit its availability for some users. The product also requires careful timing, as it's best applied in spring when weeds are actively growing, which may require some planning. In terms of environmental impact, while Scotts products are generally formulated to be effective, some users may prefer organic options. Lastly, the granule form means you’ll need a spreader for even application, which might not be readily available for everyone. This product is ideal for homeowners looking for an efficient way to manage weeds while nurturing their lawns, but those with existing crabgrass problems may need to seek additional solutions.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,461
Type of Crabgrass Killer
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility

Most important from
2847 reviews

Type of Crabgrass Killer
If you have a weed problem that’s basically a garden full of exotic plants, this might not be a one-size-fits-all solution.
Application Method
Easy to apply—no special skills required, just sprinkle it and let it work its magic.
Lawn Compatibility
Kills weeds, prevents new ones from coming back, and fertilizes your lawn like it’s on a mission.
Ease of Use
Easy to apply—no special skills required, just sprinkle it and let it work its magic.
#2

Roundup Weed & Grass Killer₄ Refill, Use in and Around Flower Beds, Trees, Driveways, Walkways & More, 1.25 gal.

Rating
9.4
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility
Environmental Impact

Most important from
2627 reviews

Application Method
The refill format is convenient and user-friendly, with a spout designed to minimize spills and waste.
Lawn Compatibility
Consistently effective across various locations, including flower beds, around trees, driveways, and walkways.
Environmental Impact
The product does not leave harmful residue in the soil, allowing for planting new flowers, trees, or shrubs after a few days.
Ease of Use
Noticeable wilting and browning of weeds within 24 hours, with most treated plants completely dead by the end of the first week.

The Roundup Weed & Grass Killer₄ Refill is a versatile herbicide designed to tackle tough weeds and grasses like crabgrass, dandelion, and poison ivy to the root. Its active ingredients include Triclopyr, Triethylamine Salt, Fluazifop P-Butyl, and Diquat Dibromide, which are effective against a wide range of broadleaf weeds and grasses. This product is easy to apply, coming in a spray form that is rainproof within 30 minutes and shows visible results in just a few hours.

It covers an area of 375 square feet per 1.25 gallons, making it suitable for use in and around flower beds, trees, driveways, walkways, and more. You can even start planting 1 to 30 days after application, depending on the specifics, which adds to its convenience. However, it's important to consider that this product is not exclusively tailored to lawn care but more for general weed killing around various areas.

Lawn compatibility might be a concern, as using it on a lawn could harm the grass you want to keep. Additionally, while it is effective, users should handle it with care due to its potent chemicals, considering the environmental impact and safety precautions. The Roundup Weed & Grass Killer₄ Refill is a practical and effective choice for those looking to manage weeds in a variety of settings beyond just their lawn.

Rating
9.4
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility
Environmental Impact

Most important from
2627 reviews

Application Method
The refill format is convenient and user-friendly, with a spout designed to minimize spills and waste.
Lawn Compatibility
Consistently effective across various locations, including flower beds, around trees, driveways, and walkways.
Environmental Impact
The product does not leave harmful residue in the soil, allowing for planting new flowers, trees, or shrubs after a few days.
Ease of Use
Noticeable wilting and browning of weeds within 24 hours, with most treated plants completely dead by the end of the first week.
#3

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

Rating
9.4
Type of Crabgrass Killer
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility

Most important from
9055 reviews

Type of Crabgrass Killer
This pre-emergent is preferred over combined weed and feed products for its focused effectiveness.
Application Method
Applying the product at the right time, such as when forsythia blooms, is crucial for effectiveness.
Lawn Compatibility
Consistent use of this product as a pre-emergent has kept lawns crabgrass-free for over a decade.

Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer is a pre-emergent weed killer designed to prevent crabgrass and other grassy weeds from germinating in your lawn. One of the standout features is its broad spectrum of effectiveness, targeting various weeds such as foxtail, spurge, and barnyardgrass, which makes it a reliable choice for homeowners looking to maintain a healthy lawn. It is suitable for all grass types, adding to its versatility, although it should not be used on Dichondra or Bentgrass. With a coverage of up to 10,000 square feet, this 20.12 lb bag offers good value for larger lawns.

A notable strength is its ease of application; you can apply it in early spring or fall, and it remains effective even after rain or frost, which can be a significant advantage for those who may not have ideal weather conditions.

On the flip side, while the product is effective, it is essential to apply it at the right time for maximum benefits, which may require some attention to local weather conditions and timing. Additionally, being a pre-emergent killer means it won't address existing weeds, so if you have crabgrass already growing, you'll need a different solution for that. The environmental impact is another consideration; some users prefer organic options, and while this product is effective, it does use chemical ingredients. Thus, it may not align with all users' preferences for eco-friendly lawn care.

Rating
9.4
Type of Crabgrass Killer
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility

Most important from
9055 reviews

Type of Crabgrass Killer
This pre-emergent is preferred over combined weed and feed products for its focused effectiveness.
Application Method
Applying the product at the right time, such as when forsythia blooms, is crucial for effectiveness.
Lawn Compatibility
Consistent use of this product as a pre-emergent has kept lawns crabgrass-free for over a decade.

Buying Guide for the Best Crabgrass Killers

Choosing the right crabgrass killer can make lawn care much easier and keep your grass healthy and attractive. The main thing to understand is that different products work in different ways, some prevent crabgrass before it grows, while others kill it after it appears. By focusing on a few key specifications, you can select a crabgrass killer that fits your lawn's needs and your approach to lawn maintenance.
Type (Pre-Emergent vs Post-Emergent)This refers to whether the product stops crabgrass seeds from sprouting (pre-emergent) or kills existing crabgrass plants (post-emergent). Pre-emergents are useful if you want to stop crabgrass before you see it; these are best applied in early spring before weeds are visible. Post-emergents are for when crabgrass is already growing and needs to be dealt with after the fact, usually in late spring or summer. Choose based on whether you're preventing or reacting to the problem.
Application MethodCrabgrass killers are available as granules, liquids, or ready-to-use sprays. Granules are spread over the lawn and watered in, making them good for large areas and even coverage. Liquids or sprays are targeted and can be more precise, ideal if you have spotty crabgrass patches. Consider how you like to apply products—granules for broad use, liquids for targeted action—and which is more manageable for your lawn size.
Selective vs Non-Selective ActionSelective products target crabgrass and certain weeds without harming most common grasses, while non-selective products kill most plants they touch, including your lawn grass. If you want to keep your lawn green and only eliminate crabgrass, always look for selective formulas. Non-selective options might only be suitable for areas where you want to kill everything, such as cracks in pavement.
Active IngredientThe active ingredient determines both the effectiveness and safety of the product for your lawn. Common pre-emergent ingredients include dithiopyr and pendimethalin, while post-emergents often contain quinclorac. Some grasses tolerate certain chemicals better than others, so check which are recommended for your grass type. Matching the active ingredient to your grass ensures the crabgrass is targeted but your lawn stays healthy.
Coverage AreaThis tells you how much lawn can be treated with each product container, often listed in square feet. Products come sized for small yards to large lawns. Assess your lawn area and compare that to the product coverage to avoid running out or over-applying. Pick a size that allows complete, even coverage of your problem area.
Safety and Environmental ImpactSome crabgrass killers can be harmful to pets, children, or beneficial insects if not used properly. A product with lower toxicity or organic certification may be better if you have kids, pets, or wildlife frequenting your yard. Always check the safety instructions and consider your household’s needs to pick a product that keeps everyone safe.

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