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10 Best Crabgrass Killers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Spectracide Weed And Grass Killer Concentrate 1 Gallon, Use On Patios, Walkways And Driveways

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,238
Application Method

Most important from
7373 reviews

Application Method
Kills anything you spray as long as mixed with the correct amount of water.

The Spectracide Weed and Grass Killer Concentrate is designed for use on patios, walkways, and driveways, rather than lawns. This makes it ideal for users looking to clear weeds and grasses from hardscaped areas. Its fast-acting formula shows visible results within 3 hours, and its rainfast feature ensures effectiveness even after rainfall or watering 15 minutes post-application.

The concentrate form requires mixing and application with a tank sprayer, which may require additional effort and equipment, but allows for thorough coverage of target vegetation. This product is non-selective and broad spectrum, meaning it will kill a variety of weeds and grasses, not just crabgrass. However, it may not be suitable for use on lawns due to its non-selective nature, which could harm desirable grass and plants.

The ease of use is moderate given the need for a sprayer, but the visible results and effectiveness make it a strong option for those who need quick and reliable weed control on non-lawn surfaces. In terms of environmental impact, it is important to consider potential runoff and its effects on nearby plants and water sources.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,238
Application Method

Most important from
7373 reviews

Application Method
Kills anything you spray as long as mixed with the correct amount of water.
#2

BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer for Lawn & Turf, Post Emergent Grassy & Broadleaf Weed Control, Active Ingredient Quinclorac, 30 Day Residual, Herbicide, Concentrate 64 Ounce

Rating
9.8
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility

Most important from
2165 reviews

Application Method
Application is straightforward, with a recommended mix of 1.4oz per gallon of water and a surfactant for optimal results.
Lawn Compatibility
Users are impressed with its ability to handle tough crabgrass infestations, even in challenging environments like Georgia's Bermuda grass.

BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Herbicide is a liquid herbicide aimed at eliminating crabgrass and other weeds. The active ingredient in this product is a potent herbicide, which ensures effective weed control. This product comes in a 64-ounce container, which provides broad coverage for large lawn areas. The application method is straightforward, typically requiring a sprayer for even distribution across the lawn. However, it's worth noting that using a sprayer might require some additional tools if you don't already have one.

As a non-selective herbicide, it targets a wide range of weeds, which can be beneficial if your lawn is heavily infested, but you'll also need to be careful to avoid desirable plants. In terms of lawn compatibility, it works well on established lawns but may not be suitable for newly seeded areas. The environmental impact is a consideration, as chemical herbicides can influence surrounding plant life and water sources if not used responsibly.

Despite these concerns, its ease of use and effectiveness make it a good option for those dealing with persistent weed problems, especially crabgrass. Sold on Amazon, it's easily accessible for purchase.

Rating
9.8
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility

Most important from
2165 reviews

Application Method
Application is straightforward, with a recommended mix of 1.4oz per gallon of water and a surfactant for optimal results.
Lawn Compatibility
Users are impressed with its ability to handle tough crabgrass infestations, even in challenging environments like Georgia's Bermuda grass.
#3

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

Rating
9.7
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility
Environmental Impact

Most important from
2023 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
9.7
Application Method
Lawn Compatibility
Environmental Impact

Most important from
2023 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.

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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