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10 Best Pre Emergent For Bermuda Grass 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer, Pre-Emergent Weed Control, Treats up to 10,000 sq. ft,20.12 lb. (2-Pack)

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,179
Application Timing
Formulation
Residual Effect

Most important from
8430 reviews

Application Timing
Halts over the last 5 seasons has worked well. Last year it did not work. Maybe I applied it too late as it is a PRE-EMERGENT.
Formulation
Big box stores carry weed and feed products for the most part versus a pure pre-emergent, which is not ideal for early spring application.
Residual Effect
With a healthy lawn and a properly applied pre-emergent, I've had no issues with crabgrass in ten years.

Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer is a granular pre-emergent weed control product designed to cover up to 10,000 square feet, making it suitable for large lawns. One of its main strengths is its long-lasting effect, with a single application in spring preventing crabgrass and other problem weeds throughout the season. This is particularly convenient for users who want a low-maintenance solution to weed control.

Its versatility shines through as it can also be applied in the fall to prevent winter weeds like poa annua, henbit, and chickweed, and even moss. This dual-season application is highly beneficial for year-round lawn care. Another advantage is its resilience to weather conditions; rain, snow, or freezing temperatures won't diminish its effectiveness, adding to its reliability.

The granular formulation is easy to apply but may not be as precise or customizable as liquid formulations for spot treatments. The product's weight and packaging size (20.12 pounds) also mean it may be cumbersome to handle for some users. This product is well-suited for homeowners with large Bermuda grass lawns looking for a straightforward, long-lasting weed control solution.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,179
Application Timing
Formulation
Residual Effect

Most important from
8430 reviews

Application Timing
Halts over the last 5 seasons has worked well. Last year it did not work. Maybe I applied it too late as it is a PRE-EMERGENT.
Formulation
Big box stores carry weed and feed products for the most part versus a pure pre-emergent, which is not ideal for early spring application.
Residual Effect
With a healthy lawn and a properly applied pre-emergent, I've had no issues with crabgrass in ten years.
#2

Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer with Lawn Food, Pre-Emergent Weed Killer, Fertilizer, 15,000 sq. ft., 40.05 lb.

Rating
9.4
Application Timing
Residual Effect

Most important from
6272 reviews

Application Timing
Putting the fertilizer down early, before the temperature hits 55-60 degrees, is crucial for its effectiveness.
Residual Effect
This lawn food stopped the crabgrass from coming up and made the lawn really green and thick within just a few weeks.

Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer with Lawn Food is a solid choice for anyone aiming to maintain a healthy Bermuda grass lawn while keeping unwanted weeds at bay. One of its main strengths is its dual function; it acts not only as a pre-emergent weed killer but also provides fertilizer, helping to promote a quick green-up after winter. The active ingredients effectively target common weeds like crabgrass and others, ensuring a cleaner lawn come spring.

Application is straightforward; it’s suggested to be used in early spring before the grass has been mowed a few times, which is crucial for its effectiveness. It can be applied during various weather conditions, including rain or snow, without losing its potency, adding to its convenience. The coverage area is impressive too, with one bag treating up to 15,000 square feet, making it a cost-effective option for larger lawns.

However, it comes with a few drawbacks. For starters, it cannot be used on certain grass types, specifically Dichondra and Bentgrass, which may limit some users. Additionally, timing your application is critical; if you miss the early spring window, you might not get the desired results. While it's designed for a wide variety of weeds, some users might find it less effective on tougher weeds that may require additional treatments.

Rating
9.4
Application Timing
Residual Effect

Most important from
6272 reviews

Application Timing
Putting the fertilizer down early, before the temperature hits 55-60 degrees, is crucial for its effectiveness.
Residual Effect
This lawn food stopped the crabgrass from coming up and made the lawn really green and thick within just a few weeks.
#3

Preen Garden Weed Preventer - 22 lb. Bag - Covers 3,520 sq. ft.

Rating
9.2
Application Timing
Residual Effect

Most important from
2622 reviews

Application Timing
Applying it after pulling weeds and watering it in enhances its effectiveness.
Residual Effect
Cuts down on the need to weed all season, making garden maintenance easier.

The Preen Garden Weed Preventer is a granule-based product and comes in a 22 lb. bag that can cover up to 3,520 sq. ft., which is quite extensive. One of its major strengths is its ability to prevent new weeds from sprouting for up to 3 months, saving effort on hand-weeding and making it suitable for busy gardeners.

It is also versatile in terms of application as it can be used in spring, summer, or fall, and is safe around over 200 different types of established plants including flowers, vegetables, trees, and shrubs. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for those with varied garden types and schedules. The product is easy to apply and can serve as a refill for a flip-top applicator, which adds to its convenience.

However, there are some drawbacks. The product is not intended for use on lawns, meaning it is not suitable for those looking specifically for a pre-emergent for Bermuda grass on their lawns. Additionally, its specificity to garden beds rather than lawns limits its use if your main concern is Bermuda grass lawns. The residual effect lasts up to 3 months, which is decent but may require reapplication for year-round protection. Considering these points, the Preen Garden Weed Preventer is ideal for gardeners looking to maintain weed-free garden beds and plant areas, but not the best choice for those needing a solution for Bermuda grass lawns.

Rating
9.2
Application Timing
Residual Effect

Most important from
2622 reviews

Application Timing
Applying it after pulling weeds and watering it in enhances its effectiveness.
Residual Effect
Cuts down on the need to weed all season, making garden maintenance easier.

Buying Guide for the Best Pre Emergent For Bermuda Grass

Choosing the right pre-emergent herbicide for Bermuda grass is crucial to maintaining a healthy and weed-free lawn. Pre-emergent herbicides work by preventing weed seeds from germinating, so it's important to apply them at the right time and select a product that suits your specific needs. Understanding the key specifications of pre-emergent herbicides will help you make an informed decision and ensure your Bermuda grass thrives.
Active IngredientThe active ingredient in a pre-emergent herbicide is the chemical that prevents weed seeds from germinating. Common active ingredients include prodiamine, dithiopyr, and pendimethalin. Each has different properties and effectiveness against various types of weeds. For example, prodiamine is effective against a wide range of weeds and has a long residual effect, making it a popular choice for Bermuda grass. When choosing an active ingredient, consider the types of weeds you are targeting and the duration of control you need.
Application TimingThe timing of application is critical for the effectiveness of pre-emergent herbicides. These products need to be applied before weed seeds begin to germinate. For Bermuda grass, the best time to apply a pre-emergent herbicide is typically in early spring and again in late summer or early fall. This timing helps prevent both summer and winter annual weeds. To determine the right timing for your area, monitor soil temperatures and local weather patterns, as weed germination is influenced by these factors.
FormulationPre-emergent herbicides come in various formulations, including granular and liquid forms. Granular formulations are easy to apply using a spreader and are ideal for large areas. Liquid formulations can be mixed with water and applied using a sprayer, offering more precise control and coverage. The choice between granular and liquid formulations depends on your preference, the size of the area you need to treat, and the equipment you have available. Consider your application method and convenience when selecting a formulation.
Coverage AreaThe coverage area indicates how much ground a specific amount of herbicide will treat. This is usually measured in square feet or acres. It's important to know the size of your lawn to ensure you purchase enough product to cover the entire area. Over-application can harm your Bermuda grass, while under-application may not effectively prevent weeds. Measure your lawn accurately and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application rates to achieve the best results.
Residual EffectThe residual effect refers to how long the herbicide remains active in the soil, preventing weed seeds from germinating. Some pre-emergent herbicides offer long-lasting control, while others may need to be reapplied more frequently. For Bermuda grass, a longer residual effect can reduce the need for multiple applications throughout the year. However, if you prefer more flexibility in your lawn care routine, a product with a shorter residual effect might be more suitable. Consider your maintenance preferences and the level of weed pressure in your area when choosing a product with the appropriate residual effect.

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