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10 Best Crabgrass Killers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray, Kills Crabgrass, Dandelion and Clover, 32 oz.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,103
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility

Most important from
9697 reviews

Application Method
Kills weeds efficiently and the application process is straightforward and quick using the sprayer bottle.
Lawn Compatibility
Effective against various casual weeds, but crabgrass may require multiple applications or higher concentrations, which could potentially harm the lawn.

The Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray is a versatile product designed to kill a variety of common lawn weeds, including crabgrass, dandelion, chickweed, clover, and foxtail. This product is effective with just one application, making it a fast-acting solution for lawn care. One of its significant strengths is its selective action – it targets weeds without harming your lawn when used as directed, and it is compatible with popular lawn grasses like Bermudagrass, Buffalograss, Fescues, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass.

The application method is user-friendly; simply connect the sprayer to a garden hose and spray evenly over the lawn for up to 5,000 square feet of coverage. This makes it suitable for average-sized lawns and easy to use for homeowners who might not be familiar with lawn care products. Additionally, the ready-to-spray format saves time and effort compared to mixing concentrated solutions.

On the downside, the product is not available in Florida, Guam, Hawaii, and Louisiana, which could be a limitation for potential users in these regions. Also, as with any chemical product, there may be environmental concerns, although the product is designed to be used safely on lawns. The Ortho WeedClear is a practical option for those looking to manage weeds efficiently without damaging their lawns, but availability and environmental impact are factors to consider.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,103
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility

Most important from
9697 reviews

Application Method
Kills weeds efficiently and the application process is straightforward and quick using the sprayer bottle.
Lawn Compatibility
Effective against various casual weeds, but crabgrass may require multiple applications or higher concentrations, which could potentially harm the lawn.
#2

Ortho GroundClear Weed and Grass Killer Refill, Kills Dandelions, Chickweed, Crabgrass, Moss and More in Patios and Landscapes, OMRI Listed, 1 gal.

Rating
10.0
Application Method

Most important from
986 reviews

Application Method
A great money saver if you have the original sprayer; easy to connect and reuse the battery-powered wand.

The Ortho GroundClear Weed and Grass Killer is a versatile product designed to tackle various types of weeds and grasses, including dandelions, chickweed, moss, and crabgrass. One of its key strengths is its fast-acting formula, which shows visible results in just 15 minutes and becomes rainproof within 2 hours. This makes it a convenient choice for quick weed control in areas like patios, walkways, and driveways, as well as landscape beds. However, it's important to note that this product is not suitable for use on lawns or desirable grasses, which could limit its application if you need to protect your lawn while killing weeds.

Ease of use is another positive aspect, particularly if you have the Comfort Wand from the original container, allowing for precise targeting of weeds. The 1-gallon refill is substantial, covering a significant area and making it economical for extended use. However, always ensure that weeds are small, actively growing, and not wet to achieve the best results.

In terms of environmental impact, the product is OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) listed, suggesting it meets organic standards, which can be a reassuring factor if you're concerned about using chemicals in your garden. A drawback to consider is that the product's effectiveness hinges on proper application conditions, such as dry weather and active weed growth, which may require you to plan your usage accordingly. Additionally, the product's restriction to non-lawn areas means it might not be the best choice for those looking to address crabgrass specifically in their lawns. If you need a powerful and fast-acting solution for controlling weeds and grasses in specific areas around your home and are mindful of application guidelines, this product could be a strong contender.

Rating
10.0
Application Method

Most important from
986 reviews

Application Method
A great money saver if you have the original sprayer; easy to connect and reuse the battery-powered wand.
#3

Ortho GroundClear Weed and Grass Killer2 Concentrate, Kills Dandelions, Chickweed, Crabgrass, Moss and More in Patios and Landscapes, OMRI Listed, 32 fl. oz.

Rating
9.9
Type of Crabgrass Killer
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility

Most important from
8061 reviews

Type of Crabgrass Killer
Delivers fast-acting weed control that visibly affects unwanted plants within minutes.
Application Method
Easy to use with a simple point-and-spray application, requiring minimal effort to start seeing results.
Lawn Compatibility
Effectively dries up weeds growing between concrete slabs, making it ideal for hard surfaces.
Environmental Impact
The organic formulation provides a safer alternative for those seeking environmentally friendly weed control.

The Ortho GroundClear Weed and Grass Killer2 Concentrate is a liquid herbicide designed to kill a variety of unwanted plants, including crabgrass, dandelions, moss, and chickweed. Its active ingredient, ammonium nonanoate, works by contact, meaning it starts killing weeds quickly, typically within 15 minutes of application. This fast action is helpful for those who want to see results soon. The product comes as a concentrate, which means you dilute it before use, allowing you to cover about 600 square feet per 32-ounce bottle. It’s best applied to dry, small, actively growing weeds and is rainproof once dry for about 2 hours.

This product is not safe for use on lawns or desirable grasses, so it’s ideal if you want to clear weeds from patios, driveways, walkways, or garden beds rather than in your grass areas. Because it’s OMRI listed, it has been reviewed for organic use, which may appeal to users concerned about environmental impact. In terms of ease of use, diluting a concentrate and spraying carefully requires some attention but is manageable for most homeowners.

If you’re looking specifically for a crabgrass killer to use directly on your lawn, this might not be the best choice since it can damage grass you want to keep. However, if you need a powerful, fast-acting weed killer for hard surfaces and non-lawn areas, this product works well and has a strong reputation among many users.

Rating
9.9
Type of Crabgrass Killer
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility

Most important from
8061 reviews

Type of Crabgrass Killer
Delivers fast-acting weed control that visibly affects unwanted plants within minutes.
Application Method
Easy to use with a simple point-and-spray application, requiring minimal effort to start seeing results.
Lawn Compatibility
Effectively dries up weeds growing between concrete slabs, making it ideal for hard surfaces.
Environmental Impact
The organic formulation provides a safer alternative for those seeking environmentally friendly weed control.

Buying Guide for the Best Crabgrass Killers

Choosing the right crabgrass killer can be a bit overwhelming, but with the right information, you can find the best product to keep your lawn healthy and free of unwanted weeds. Crabgrass killers are designed to target and eliminate crabgrass without harming your lawn. To make an informed decision, you need to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your specific needs. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting a crabgrass killer.
Type of Crabgrass KillerThere are two main types of crabgrass killers: pre-emergent and post-emergent. Pre-emergent crabgrass killers prevent crabgrass seeds from germinating and are best applied in early spring before the crabgrass starts to grow. Post-emergent crabgrass killers are used to eliminate crabgrass that has already sprouted and are typically applied during the growing season. Choose a pre-emergent if you want to prevent crabgrass from appearing, and a post-emergent if you need to tackle an existing problem.
Active IngredientsThe active ingredients in crabgrass killers are the chemicals that target and kill the weed. Common active ingredients include dithiopyr, quinclorac, and pendimethalin. Dithiopyr is effective as both a pre-emergent and early post-emergent, making it versatile. Quinclorac is a strong post-emergent that works well on mature crabgrass. Pendimethalin is a pre-emergent that provides long-lasting control. Choose the active ingredient based on whether you need pre-emergent or post-emergent control and the stage of crabgrass growth in your lawn.
Application MethodCrabgrass killers come in various forms, including granules, liquid concentrates, and ready-to-use sprays. Granules are easy to apply with a spreader and are ideal for large areas. Liquid concentrates need to be mixed with water and applied with a sprayer, offering flexibility in coverage. Ready-to-use sprays are convenient for spot treatments and small areas. Consider the size of your lawn and your preference for application when choosing the form of the crabgrass killer.
Lawn CompatibilityNot all crabgrass killers are suitable for all types of lawns. Some products may harm certain grass species, so it's important to check the label to ensure compatibility with your lawn type. Common lawn types include Bermuda grass, Kentucky bluegrass, and fescue. Make sure the crabgrass killer you choose is safe for your specific lawn type to avoid damaging your grass while eliminating the crabgrass.
Environmental ImpactConsider the environmental impact of the crabgrass killer you choose. Some products may contain chemicals that can be harmful to beneficial insects, pets, or the environment. Look for eco-friendly options that are labeled as safe for the environment and non-toxic to pets and wildlife. If you have pets or children who play on the lawn, this is an especially important factor to consider.
Ease of UseThe ease of use of a crabgrass killer can make a big difference in your overall experience. Some products require precise mixing and application, while others are more straightforward. If you prefer a hassle-free approach, look for products that are easy to apply and come with clear instructions. Ready-to-use sprays and granules are typically the easiest to use, while liquid concentrates may require more effort and equipment.

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