Does your beautiful green lawn secretly have unwelcome guests? Those pesky dandelions and stubborn clover can really ruin your yard’s perfect look. You want a lush, healthy carpet of grass, but getting rid of weeds while feeding your lawn feels like a juggling act. It’s easy to get confused staring at bags promising “total control” or “triple action.” Which one actually works best for your specific lawn problems?
Choosing the right Lawn Weed & Feed can feel overwhelming. You want to kill the bad stuff without hurting the good grass, and you need a feeding schedule that makes your lawn thrive, not just survive. Getting it wrong means wasted money and more weeds next season. But don’t worry! This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explain exactly what to look for, how to read those labels, and how to pick the perfect product for a weed-free, vibrant lawn this year.
Top Lawn Weed & Feed Recommendations
- WEED KILLER PLUS LAWN FOOD: Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3 weed killer plus fertilizer for grass kills existing listed weeds and feeds to thicken your lawn and crowd out future weeds
- WEED CONTROL FOR LAWNS: These weed killer plus lawn fertilizer granules control over 50 listed lawn weeds, including clover, dandelion, plantain, morningglory, chicory, eveningprimrose, and purslane
- WEED AND FEED FOR LAWNS: Apply this combination weed control and lawn food to your wet lawn when weeds are actively growing and daytime temperatures are consistently between 60°F and 90°F; don't apply more than 2X per year
- USE ON LISTED GRASS TYPES: Apply this lawn care product to Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass (temporary discoloration may occur on some grasses)
- DO NOT USE ON: Do not use this weed killer for lawns on St. Augustinegrass (including Floratam), Dichondra, Lippia, Carpetgrass, and Bentgrass lawns
- Scotts Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control kills weeds and gives your lawn a quick boost of nitrogen to promote greening
- Liquid weed killer plus fertilizer controls dandelion, clover, ground ivy, henbit, chickweed, plantain, poison ivy, and other broadleaf weeds as listed
- Apply this ready-to-spray weed and feed when weeds are actively growing
- This lawn care product is for use on Bluegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, Bahiagrass, Common Bermudagrass, Centipedegrass, and Zoysiagrass
- One 32 fl. oz. container of Scotts Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control provides coverage of 6,000 sq. ft. for warm season lawns and 4,000 sq. ft. for cool season lawns
- Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed5 weed killer plus fertilizer kills existing listed weeds and feeds to thicken grass and crowd out future weeds
- Weed Control and Lawn Fertilizer: controls over 50 listed lawn weeds, including clover, dandelion, plantain, morningglory, chicory, eveningprimrose, and purslane
- Weed and Feed for Lawns: Apply this combination weed control and lawn food to a wet lawn when weeds are actively growing and daytime temperatures are consistently between 60°F and 90°F; do not apply more than 2X per year
- Use on Listed Grass Types: Apply this lawn care product to Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass (temporary discoloration may occur on some grasses)
- Coverage: One 11.32 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed5 covers 4,000 sq. ft.; use a Scotts spreader for even, uniform coverage
- Kills over 250 common lawn weeds - including dandelions, clover and plantain
- Ideal for smaller lawns providing continuous feeding for up to 8 weeks
- Restores nutrients to the soil and helps lawn retain water to protect against heat and drought
- Builds a deeper, stronger root system
- Promotes a faster spring green up
- Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1 is a three-in-one formula that kills weeds, prevents crabgrass, and feeds grass to build thick, green lawns
- Controls existing listed lawn weeds, including dandelion, clover, dollarweed, ground ivy, chickweed, plantain, henbit, and english daisy
- Prevents crabgrass for 4 months (will not kill existing crabgrass); prevents other listed grassy weeds from invading your lawn
- For use on Bahiagrass, Centipedegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, Bermudagrass, Tall Fescue, Fine Fescue, and Zosyiagrass
- Apply to a wet lawn with a Scotts spreader, and then water in after 24 hours; apply in early spring when dandelions are actively growing; an 11.31 lb. bag treats 4,000 sq. ft.
- Weed killer for lawns: Kill weeds in your lawn, including dandelion, chickweed, clover, crabgrass and foxtail with the Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray
- Fast-acting weed control: This weed control product kills listed weeds like crabgrass, dandelion, clover, chickweed and creeping charlie down to the root and gets results with 1 application
- Broadcast treatment for weeds: Won't harm lawn grasses when used as directed - use on lawn grasses including Bermudagrass, Buffalograss, Fescues, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass and Zoysiagrass
- Spray weed killer: Apply to weeds that are young and actively growing by connecting your garden hose to the sprayer, sliding the switch to "ON" and spraying evenly until the lawn is wet
- Ready to spray: This 32 oz. container of Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray treats up to 5,000 sq. ft.
- KILLS TOUGH WEEDS: Improve your lawn care with lawn weed and feed fertilizer, targeting hard-to-kill listed weeds with weed control for lawns
- PREVENTS NEW WEEDS: Control listed weeds such as crabgrass, dandelions, clovers, and black medic
- KILLS LARGE CRABGRASS: Control crabgrass, targeting them down to the root for visible results in just 3 days
- PREVENTS NEW CRABGRASS: Use to keep crabgrass, dandelions, clovers, black medic, and other listed weeds from starting, applying crabgrass preventer for lawns while keeping your grass unharmed
- GREENS UP TO 3 MONTHS: Fertilizer for grass offers stronger turf while acting as a lawn weed killer
- Kills and prevents dandelion, clover and crabgrass
- Contains polymer coated urea that slowly releases nitrogen up to 4-months
- Contains 5% iron for deep greening
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Lawn Weed & Feed
A beautiful, green lawn is something everyone wants. Weed and feed products help you achieve this. They kill weeds and give your grass the nutrients it needs to grow strong. Choosing the right one can feel tricky. This guide will help you pick the perfect product for your yard.
Key Features to Look For
When you look at different bags or bottles, check these important things:
- Weed Control Type: Does it kill existing weeds (post-emergent) or stop seeds from growing (pre-emergent)? Many good products do both!
- Fertilizer Numbers (N-P-K): These three numbers tell you the percentage of Nitrogen (N), Phosphate (P), and Potash (K). Nitrogen is key for green growth.
- Application Method: Some are granular (spread with a spreader), and others are liquid (mixed with water and sprayed). Choose what fits your tools.
- Lawn Type Compatibility: Make sure the product is safe for your grass type (like Fescue, Bermuda, or Zoysia).
Important Materials Inside
The ingredients matter a lot. You want effective weed killers and good nutrients.
Weed Control Agents
Look for active ingredients like 2,4-D, Dicamba, or MCPP for broadleaf weeds (like dandelions). If you have grassy weeds, you might need a specialized product.
Nutrients (The “Feed” Part)
Good fertilizer usually contains slow-release nitrogen. This means your grass gets food steadily over weeks, not just a quick burst followed by a slump. Slow-release nutrients provide longer-lasting color and health.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all weed and feed products perform the same way. Quality depends on how they are made and when you use them.
What Makes It Better?
- Slow-Release Formulas: These feed your lawn longer, meaning fewer applications are needed.
- Rain Includers: Some products work better if it rains shortly after application, helping the chemicals move into the soil. Always read the label!
- Targeted Ingredients: Products designed specifically for your region or weed problem usually work best.
What Can Lower Performance?
- Applying at the Wrong Time: Putting down a pre-emergent when soil temperatures are too high will make it useless. Timing is everything.
- Poor Coverage: If you miss spots when spreading or spraying, weeds will definitely grow there.
- Heavy Rain Immediately After: If a downpour happens right after application, the product might wash away before it can work.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the product changes your experience. Think about your lawn size and your comfort level.
Easy Spreading vs. Spraying
Granular products require a spreader, which can be messy but is great for large areas. Liquid products often offer more precise control for small patches, but you must mix them correctly. Beginners often find spreader-ready granules easier to manage.
When to Use It
Spring: This is the best time for pre-emergent weed control. You stop weeds before they start. It’s also a great time for the first major feeding.
Fall: Many experts suggest a final, heavy feeding in the fall. This helps the grass roots get strong for winter survival.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lawn Weed & Feed
Q: How soon after applying weed and feed can my pets or kids play on the lawn?
A: This depends entirely on the specific product. Most manufacturers suggest waiting until the product has completely dried, usually a few hours. Always check the label instructions for safety waiting times.
Q: Can I use weed and feed if my grass is dormant (brown)?
A: Generally, no. For best results, your grass should be actively growing so it can absorb the nutrients and the weed killer can target the weeds effectively.
Q: What is the difference between pre-emergent and post-emergent control?
A: Pre-emergent stops seeds from sprouting (like building a barrier). Post-emergent kills weeds that are already visible and growing above ground.
Q: How often should I apply a standard weed and feed product?
A: Most standard formulas are applied two to four times per year, usually spaced about 6 to 8 weeks apart, depending on the season and the product’s instructions.
Q: Will weed and feed kill clover in my lawn?
A: Yes, most standard broadleaf weed and feed products are designed to control common lawn weeds like clover, dandelions, and plantain.
Q: What if I accidentally put down too much product?
A: Applying too much fertilizer can “burn” your lawn, causing brown or dead patches. If you over-apply, water the area heavily immediately to try and wash the chemicals deeper into the soil.
Q: Do I need to water my lawn after applying granular weed and feed?
A: Yes, almost always! Watering helps move the fertilizer and weed killer from the granule into the soil where they can work. Always follow the label directions for watering requirements.
Q: Can I use weed and feed near my vegetable garden?
A: You must be very careful. Some chemicals can drift or run off and harm sensitive garden plants. Never apply near edible plants unless the product specifically states it is safe.
Q: Why are some weed and feed products more expensive?
A: Higher prices usually mean the product uses premium, slow-release nitrogen sources or includes newer, more effective combinations of weed killers.
Q: My lawn has bare spots. Should I still use weed and feed?
A: If you have large bare spots, focus on reseeding those areas first. Weed and feed works best when applied to established grass. Wait until new grass is growing before applying the product.