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10 Best Post-Emergent Herbicides 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Roundup Weed & Grass Killer₄ Concentrate, Use In and Around Flower Beds, Walkways and other areas of your yard, 64 fl. oz.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,149
Mode of Action
Safety and Environmental Impact
Residual Activity

Most important from
3107 reviews

Mode of Action
The Roundup Weed & Grass Killer shows significant wilting and browning of weeds within 24 hours, with most treated plants completely dead by the end of the first week.
Safety and Environmental Impact
It's crucial to handle with care due to the glyphosate content, adhering to safety instructions and using protective gear to minimize exposure risks.
Residual Activity
One application provides long-lasting results, keeping treated areas weed-free for several weeks without leaving harmful residue in the soil.

The Roundup Weed & Grass Killer₄ Concentrate is a potent option for tackling a variety of common weeds and grasses like dandelions, crabgrass, poison ivy, and clover. It's effective in killing weeds down to the root and shows visible results within hours, making it a fast-acting solution. This product is also rainproof within 30 minutes, which adds to its reliability, especially in unpredictable weather conditions.

Additionally, it allows for flexibility with planting 1 to 30 days after application, making it suitable for gardeners who need to replant quickly after clearing weeds. You can use it in various locations around your yard, including flower beds, walkways, and large areas for lawn replacement or garden preparation. The concentrate needs to be mixed according to the label directions and can cover up to 300 sq. ft. per gallon of spray solution, offering good coverage for most residential needs.

However, the product contains chemicals like Triclopyr and Diquat Dibromide, which might raise concerns for those prioritizing environmental safety. While it's effective in killing a wide range of weeds, users should handle and apply it carefully to avoid harming desirable plants or affecting the surrounding environment. This product is best for homeowners looking for a reliable and quick-acting herbicide for their yard maintenance but may not be the ideal choice for those seeking eco-friendly solutions.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,149
Mode of Action
Safety and Environmental Impact
Residual Activity

Most important from
3107 reviews

Mode of Action
The Roundup Weed & Grass Killer shows significant wilting and browning of weeds within 24 hours, with most treated plants completely dead by the end of the first week.
Safety and Environmental Impact
It's crucial to handle with care due to the glyphosate content, adhering to safety instructions and using protective gear to minimize exposure risks.
Residual Activity
One application provides long-lasting results, keeping treated areas weed-free for several weeks without leaving harmful residue in the soil.
#2

Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns Ready-To-Spray: Treats up to 16,000 sq. ft., Won't Harm Grass (When Used as Directed), Kills Dandelion & Clover, 32 oz.

Rating
9.4
Type of Weeds
Mode of Action
Application Method

Most important from
6767 reviews

Type of Weeds
This product targets a wide range of common lawn weeds, including dandelions, clover, and crabgrass, without harming the grass.
Mode of Action
Within days of application, there's a noticeable reduction in weeds, with most wilting and dying off completely.
Application Method
The Ready-To-Spray formula is a major convenience, eliminating the need for mixing or measuring and making application quick and easy.
Rainfastness
Being rainproof within hours of application ensures effectiveness even if it rains shortly after treatment.
Residual Activity
The long-lasting results mean enjoying a weed-free lawn for an extended period before needing to reapply.

Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns Ready-To-Spray is designed to effectively target and eliminate over 250 common weeds, including troublesome ones like dandelions, clover, poison ivy, chickweed, and dollarweed. Its formulation is lawn-friendly, meaning it won’t harm your grass when used as directed, which is a significant advantage for maintaining a healthy lawn.

With visible results in just hours and a rainfastness of just one hour, it's a quick and practical solution for weed problems. The product's ease of use is another strong point; simply connect it to your garden hose and spray. This makes it accessible even for those not well-versed in herbicide application techniques.

Covering up to 16,000 square feet, it’s suitable for treating larger areas without the need for repeated applications. While it’s safe for people and pets post-application once dried, users should still follow all safety instructions closely. Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer offers efficient weed control that’s easy to apply and quick to act, making it a practical choice for homeowners looking to maintain a weed-free lawn without significant effort.

Rating
9.4
Type of Weeds
Mode of Action
Application Method

Most important from
6767 reviews

Type of Weeds
This product targets a wide range of common lawn weeds, including dandelions, clover, and crabgrass, without harming the grass.
Mode of Action
Within days of application, there's a noticeable reduction in weeds, with most wilting and dying off completely.
Application Method
The Ready-To-Spray formula is a major convenience, eliminating the need for mixing or measuring and making application quick and easy.
Rainfastness
Being rainproof within hours of application ensures effectiveness even if it rains shortly after treatment.
Residual Activity
The long-lasting results mean enjoying a weed-free lawn for an extended period before needing to reapply.
#3

Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Concentrate, Fast-Acting Formula Kills Dandelion, Crabgrass & Clover to the Root, 32 fl. oz.

Rating
9.1
Type of Weeds
Application Method
Residual Activity

Most important from
9414 reviews

Type of Weeds
Easily slays everything but crabgrass and nutsedge, which require specific herbicides.
Application Method
Application is easy and fast using the sprayer bottle Ortho sells.
Residual Activity
Turned weeds yellow but did not kill them off completely, requiring a second application.

The Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Concentrate is designed to tackle a variety of common lawn weeds such as dandelion, chickweed, clover, crabgrass, and foxtail. Its fast-acting formula promises visible results with just one application, and it is formulated to kill weeds down to the roots without harming your lawn when used correctly. This makes it suitable for use on various grass types, including Bermudagrass, Buffalograss, Fescues, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass.

As a concentrate, it requires proper mixing and application according to label instructions, so some effort and attention to detail are needed during use. The product covers up to 5000 square feet, providing ample coverage for most residential lawns. It is also notable for being rainfast, meaning it won't wash away easily in rain, enhancing its effectiveness. On the downside, while its safety and environmental impact are not explicitly detailed, users should handle any herbicide with care and follow all safety guidelines.

Ortho WeedClear is a reliable choice for homeowners looking to manage a variety of lawn weeds efficiently.

Rating
9.1
Type of Weeds
Application Method
Residual Activity

Most important from
9414 reviews

Type of Weeds
Easily slays everything but crabgrass and nutsedge, which require specific herbicides.
Application Method
Application is easy and fast using the sprayer bottle Ortho sells.
Residual Activity
Turned weeds yellow but did not kill them off completely, requiring a second application.

Buying Guide for the Best Post-Emergent Herbicides

Choosing the right post-emergent herbicide is crucial for effectively managing weeds in your garden, lawn, or agricultural field. Post-emergent herbicides are designed to target and kill weeds that have already emerged from the soil. To select the best product for your needs, you should consider several key specifications. Understanding these specifications will help you make an informed decision and ensure that the herbicide you choose is effective and safe for your specific situation.
Type of WeedsPost-emergent herbicides can be selective or non-selective. Selective herbicides target specific types of weeds without harming the surrounding plants, making them ideal for lawns and gardens. Non-selective herbicides kill all vegetation they come into contact with, which is useful for clearing areas completely. Identify the types of weeds you need to control and choose a herbicide that is effective against those specific weeds.
Mode of ActionThe mode of action refers to how the herbicide affects the weed. Some herbicides are systemic, meaning they are absorbed by the plant and move throughout its tissues, killing it from the inside out. Others are contact herbicides, which kill only the parts of the plant they touch. Systemic herbicides are generally more effective for perennial weeds with deep root systems, while contact herbicides are suitable for annual weeds and quick knockdown.
Application MethodHerbicides can be applied in various ways, including sprays, granules, and concentrates. Sprays are easy to apply and provide good coverage for large areas. Granules are convenient for spot treatments and can be applied with a spreader. Concentrates need to be mixed with water and are suitable for larger areas or heavy infestations. Consider the size of the area you need to treat and your preferred application method when choosing a herbicide.
RainfastnessRainfastness refers to the time it takes for the herbicide to become resistant to being washed away by rain. This is important because if it rains shortly after application, the effectiveness of the herbicide can be reduced. Look for products with a short rainfast period if you live in an area with frequent rainfall, or plan your application during a dry spell to ensure the herbicide has enough time to work.
Safety and Environmental ImpactConsider the safety of the herbicide for humans, pets, and the environment. Some herbicides can be toxic and require careful handling and application. Look for products that are labeled as safe for use around children and pets if this is a concern. Additionally, consider the environmental impact of the herbicide, such as its potential to contaminate water sources or harm beneficial insects. Choose a product that aligns with your safety and environmental values.
Residual ActivityResidual activity refers to how long the herbicide remains active in the soil after application. Some herbicides break down quickly and have little to no residual activity, making them safer for use in areas where you plan to replant soon. Others have long-lasting effects that can prevent weed regrowth for an extended period. If you need long-term weed control, choose a herbicide with a longer residual activity. If you plan to replant or rotate crops, opt for one with minimal residual effects.

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