10 Best Lawn Insecticides 2025 in the United States

The TERRO T901SR Ant Killer Plus Multi-Purpose Insect Control for Outdoors offers a versatile solution for dealing with various crawling insects such as ants, fire ants, cockroaches, and fleas. It comes in granular form, packaged in two convenient shaker bags that make application straightforward without the need for additional spreaders. These granules act fast, killing insects within 24 hours, which is particularly advantageous for those seeking quick results.

It can be used both as a band treatment around house foundations and directly on insect nests, providing flexibility in usage. The resealable shaker bags also add practicality, ensuring that the product remains fresh and easy to store after use. However, while the product is effective and user-friendly, it is important to consider its safety and environmental impact. Being a chemical insecticide, caution is required during application to avoid harm to pets, children, and beneficial insects.

Additionally, the long-term environmental impact of repeated use of chemical insecticides should be taken into account. This product would be well-suited for homeowners looking for an effective and easy-to-use solution for a variety of insect problems, provided that they are mindful of safety precautions and potential environmental impacts.

Bonide Insect Control Systemic Granules offer a convenient and effective way to protect outdoor plants from common insects like aphids, mealybugs, and scale. The granules are applied to the soil and absorbed by the plant roots, providing systemic protection that lasts up to 8 weeks and won’t wash away with rain or watering. This long-lasting, water-resistant effect means fewer applications are needed, which can save time and effort. The product is low odor and ready to use, making it easy to apply by simply spreading granules on the soil surface and watering them in.

These granules are not safe for use on edible plants such as vegetables, herbs, or fruit-bearing plants, so they are best suited for ornamental lawns and garden plants. The protection works by killing insects that feed on plants, so it won’t harm beneficial insects that don’t eat plants. It is important to follow the label instructions carefully, especially regarding application rates. This product is an excellent choice if you want a low-maintenance, effective insecticide for your lawn or outdoor ornamentals, and you don’t need to treat edible plants. Its systemic action and water resistance are notable strengths, but those looking for insecticides for vegetable gardens will need to look elsewhere.

Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Lawn Food with Insect Control is a dual-action product designed to nourish your lawn while protecting it against various pests. The active ingredients effectively target a wide range of pests such as ants, armyworms, chinch bugs, crickets, fleas, grasshoppers, spiders, and ticks. This makes it highly versatile for pest control. The formulation type is granules, which are easy to apply and can be used on any grass type, providing flexibility in usage.

You should apply it to a dry lawn when you notice insect activity or damage, which is convenient for mid-summer applications when lawns are typically more vulnerable to pests and environmental stressors like heat and drought. Covering up to 15,000 square feet, it offers substantial coverage for larger lawns. The residual effect ensures continued protection over time, reducing the need for frequent reapplications. Safety and environmental impact are also important considerations, and this product is designed to be safe for use on lawns without significant adverse effects on the surrounding environment when used as directed.

However, the granule form may require careful handling to avoid uneven application or overuse, which could potentially harm the lawn. The product comes in a sizable 40.05 lb. bag, which might be heavy and cumbersome for some users to maneuver. It's also worth noting that while it is effective against listed pests, it may not address all possible lawn pests you might encounter. Nevertheless, Scotts Turf Builder SummerGuard Lawn Food with Insect Control is a reliable choice for those looking to maintain a healthy, pest-free lawn during the summer months.