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10 Best Crabgrass Preventers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,139
Active Ingredient
Application Timing
Safety for Desired Grass

Most important from
8430 reviews

Active Ingredient
The concentrated Halts formulation is more effective than the mixed weed and feed products.
Application Timing
With proper timing and application, this product has kept my lawn crabgrass-free for ten years.
Safety for Desired Grass
This product works better than post-emergence weed killers, which often either kill the grass or fail to affect the weeds.

The Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer is a reliable option for those looking to maintain a weed-free lawn. The product is designed to prevent a variety of weeds, including crabgrass, foxtail, and spurge, making it versatile for different weed issues throughout the year. The recommended application timing is flexible, allowing for either early spring or fall, which helps accommodate different lawn care schedules.

With a coverage area of 10,000 sq. ft., it is suitable for larger lawns, but users with smaller lawns might find it excessive. The granule formulation is straightforward to apply, either on a dry lawn or before rain or snow, without worrying about the weather impacting its effectiveness. It's important to note that this product is not safe for use on Dichondra or Bentgrass, so it may not be suitable for those types of lawns.

Weighing 20.12 pounds, it is a manageable size for most users. This weed preventer is ideal for homeowners with medium to large lawns who are looking for a seasonal solution to prevent a wide range of weeds without the need for constant reapplication.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,139
Active Ingredient
Application Timing
Safety for Desired Grass

Most important from
8430 reviews

Active Ingredient
The concentrated Halts formulation is more effective than the mixed weed and feed products.
Application Timing
With proper timing and application, this product has kept my lawn crabgrass-free for ten years.
Safety for Desired Grass
This product works better than post-emergence weed killers, which often either kill the grass or fail to affect the weeds.
#2

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

Most important from
6272 reviews

Application Timing
For best results, apply early in the spring before temperatures reach 55-60 degrees.

The Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer with Lawn Food is a comprehensive solution for preventing crabgrass and other listed weeds while simultaneously fertilizing your lawn. It features an effective pre-emergent weed killer that stops crabgrass, barnyard grass, foxtail, and more before they emerge, ensuring a healthier lawn. The product is designed for early spring application, ideally before the 3rd or 4th mowing when temperatures are still moderate.

One significant advantage is that its performance remains unaffected by rain, snow, or freezing conditions post-application, which adds to its reliability in various weather conditions. Each 40.05 lb. bag covers an impressive 15,000 sq. ft., making it suitable for larger lawns. However, it should not be applied to Dichondra or Bentgrass, as it is not safe for these grass types.

On the downside, users need to be cautious about the application timing and conditions to avoid any adverse effects. If your lawn consists of grass types other than Dichondra and Bentgrass, this product is an excellent choice for both weed prevention and lawn nourishment.

Rating
9.6
Application Timing

Most important from
6272 reviews

Application Timing
For best results, apply early in the spring before temperatures reach 55-60 degrees.
#3

The Andersons Barricade Professional-Grade Granular Pre-Emergent Weed Control - Covers up to 5,800 sq ft (18 lb)

Rating
9.3
Active Ingredient
Application Timing
Coverage Area

Most important from
4657 reviews

Active Ingredient
This Prodiamine-based product (0.48%) is one of the most effective weed-preventive products available.
Application Timing
If you want a weed-free, pristine lawn, apply Barricade properly to a fully pre-weeded lawn and water it in; you will have zero new weeds.
Coverage Area
The DG Pro formulation ensures a more complete coverage with a very fine powder that increases the coverage area of every particle.
Formulation Type
The granules don't have the typical yellow-orange coating, so hands, clothes, and shoes remain unstained.

The Andersons Barricade Professional-Grade Granular Pre-Emergent Weed Control is designed to prevent the growth of weeds, particularly crabgrass, rather than eliminate existing ones. It contains 0.48% prodiamine, a professional-grade herbicide effective for early spring and fall applications. This product is capable of preventing a wide range of grassy and broadleaf weeds, including crabgrass, poa annua, goosegrass, and henbit.

The DG Pro formulation ensures a higher number of particles per square inch, contributing to its superior performance in weed prevention. With a coverage area of up to 5,800 square feet, it is suitable for larger lawns or garden spaces. The granules are easy to apply and are made in the USA, adding to the product's reliability and quality assurance.

However, it is important to note that this product will not help with existing weeds, which requires additional treatment if weeds are already present. Additionally, users should be mindful of its application timing to ensure effectiveness. It is crucial to follow the safety guidelines to avoid any harm to desired grasses. Ideal for homeowners looking for a pre-emergent solution to prevent weeds during specific seasons.

Rating
9.3
Active Ingredient
Application Timing
Coverage Area

Most important from
4657 reviews

Active Ingredient
This Prodiamine-based product (0.48%) is one of the most effective weed-preventive products available.
Application Timing
If you want a weed-free, pristine lawn, apply Barricade properly to a fully pre-weeded lawn and water it in; you will have zero new weeds.
Coverage Area
The DG Pro formulation ensures a more complete coverage with a very fine powder that increases the coverage area of every particle.
Formulation Type
The granules don't have the typical yellow-orange coating, so hands, clothes, and shoes remain unstained.

Buying Guide for the Best Crabgrass Preventers

Choosing the right crabgrass preventer is essential for maintaining a healthy and beautiful lawn. Crabgrass preventers are designed to stop crabgrass seeds from germinating, which helps keep your lawn free of this invasive weed. When selecting a crabgrass preventer, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you pick the best product for your needs. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and achieve the best results for your lawn.
Active IngredientThe active ingredient in a crabgrass preventer is the chemical that stops the crabgrass seeds from germinating. Common active ingredients include dithiopyr, prodiamine, and pendimethalin. The choice of active ingredient can affect the product's effectiveness and safety for your lawn. Dithiopyr is known for its post-emergent control, meaning it can kill young crabgrass plants, while prodiamine and pendimethalin are primarily pre-emergent. Consider the type of grass you have and any other plants in your lawn when choosing an active ingredient.
Application TimingThe timing of application is crucial for the effectiveness of a crabgrass preventer. These products need to be applied before the crabgrass seeds germinate, which typically happens in early spring when soil temperatures reach around 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Some products are designed for early spring application, while others can be applied in late winter. If you miss the early application window, look for a product that offers post-emergent control. Knowing the right time to apply the preventer based on your local climate and soil temperature is key to preventing crabgrass.
Coverage AreaCoverage area refers to the amount of lawn that a single package of crabgrass preventer can treat. This is usually measured in square feet. It's important to know the size of your lawn to ensure you purchase enough product to cover the entire area. Products come in various sizes, so choose one that matches your lawn's needs. If you have a large lawn, buying in bulk might be more economical, while smaller lawns may only require a small package.
Formulation TypeCrabgrass preventers come in different formulations, such as granular or liquid. Granular formulations are easy to apply with a spreader and are often preferred for their ease of use and even distribution. Liquid formulations can be applied with a sprayer and may offer more precise control, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Consider your comfort level with application methods and the equipment you have available when choosing a formulation type.
Safety for Desired GrassNot all crabgrass preventers are safe for all types of grass. Some products may harm certain grass species while being safe for others. It's important to check the label to ensure the product is safe for your specific type of grass. If you have a mixed lawn or are unsure of your grass type, look for a product labeled as safe for multiple grass types. Ensuring compatibility with your lawn will prevent damage to your desired grass while effectively controlling crabgrass.

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