Does your beautiful green lawn have unwelcome visitors? Those pesky dandelions and clover patches can really ruin the look of your yard. It’s frustrating when you work hard to keep your grass looking great, only to see broadleaf weeds taking over. Choosing the right broadleaf weed killer can feel overwhelming. So many bottles line the shelves, each promising magic results. How do you know which one will actually work on your lawn without harming the good grass?
Don’t worry, you are not alone in this struggle. Finding the perfect weed killer that is tough on weeds but safe for your turf is the key to a picture-perfect lawn. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down what you need to know about different types of weed killers, what ingredients to look for, and how to apply them correctly for the best results. Keep reading to discover the secrets to reclaiming your beautiful, weed-free lawn this season.
Top Broadleaf Weed Killer For Lawns Recommendations
- Use Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns Ready-To-Spray to kill weeds down to the root, without harming your lawn (when used as directed); you'll see visible results in hours
- KILLS WEEDS: This lawn weed killer kills over 250 common weeds, including dandelions, clover, poison ivy, chickweed, and dollarweed (see product label for complete weed list)
- LAWN FRIENDLY: It contains three proven ingredients that target common lawn weeds, so it won’t harm your grass (when used as directed)
- RESULTS YOU CAN SEE: Visible results in hours; rainproof in 1 hour upon drying; people and pets may enter the treated area after the spray has dried
- EASY TO USE: To apply, connect your garden hose to the sprayer and set the nozzle to your desired setting
- Low, economical use rate of 1 to 4 pints per acre
- Controls many broadleaf weeds & woody plants
- Use in turf, pastures, rangeland, ditch banks, fences…
- 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.
- Scotts Weed Control for Lawns starts working on contact to kill even the toughest weeds down to the root
- This weed killer for lawns controls over 200 listed weeds, including dandelion, clover, dollarweed, chickweed, poison ivy, henbit, oxalis, ground ivy, and purslane
- Apply in the spring or early fall when broadleaf weeds are actively growing
- Do not use this lawn care product on Dichondra, Carpetgrass, 'Floratam' St. Augustinegrass, Creeping Bentgrass, or turfgrass where desirable clovers are present
- One 14 lb. bag of Scotts Weed Control for Lawns covers 5,000 sq. ft.
- Weed killer for lawns: Use Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns to kill over 250 listed weeds including dandelion and clover down to the root, without harming your lawn (when used as directed)
- Fast-acting weed control: Kills listed weeds like dandelion, clover, and chickweed down to the root and gets results with 1 application
- Spot treatment for weeds: Kills weeds not the lawn when used as directed - use on St. Augustinegrass (not Floratam), Bermudagrass, Centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, Buffalograss, and Bahiagrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, Tall Fescue, and Fine Fescue
- Spray weed killer: Apply this lawn weed killer to small, actively growing weeds when daytime temperatures are below 90°F
- Ready to use: This 1 gal. container of Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns comes with the continuous-spray Comfort Wand applicator to easily spot treat weeds in your lawn
- Roundup For Lawns₁ is a ready-to-use tough weed killer for Northern grasses that kills weeds, roots and all (when used as directed), with up to 3 month weed control (as listed)
- Kills 253 types of weeds (see inside booklet for weed list), including crabgrass, dandelion, clover, yellow nutsedge, poison ivy, chickweed, oxalis, and purslane
- Roundup For Lawns₁ starts working immediately and is rainproof in 3 hours
- Use this tough weed killer on listed Northern grasses, including Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, Fescue spp. including Tall, Red, and Fine Leaf Fescues, and Zoysiagrass
- The easy reach extendable spray wand makes application a breeze with its continuous spray
- SOUTHERN LAWNS: Specially formulated for Southern lawns like Bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass (including Floratam), and more, this grass fertilizer for lawn provides care and acts as a weed killer for lawns
- 6-MONTH PROTECTION: Delivers up to 6 months of weed prevention, stopping listed broadleaf and grassy weeds, including crabgrass
- WEED KILLER: Kills listed weeds like dandelion, dollarweed, and clover, serving as a reliable weed and feed for lawns to keep your lawn healthy and maintain its beauty
- LAWN FERTILIZER: This lawn fertilizer and weed control product feeds, greens, and strengthens your lawn, helping it remain lush throughout the season
- EASY APPLICATION: Use with a broadcast or drop spreader to apply this weed and feed lawn fertilizer, managing your lawn care routine with ease and maximum results
Choosing the Best Broadleaf Weed Killer for Your Lawn
Tired of those pesky dandelions and clover ruining your beautiful green lawn? Finding the right broadleaf weed killer is key. This guide will help you pick the perfect product so you can enjoy a weed-free yard.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look closely at the product label. Not all weed killers work the same way.
Selective vs. Non-Selective
- Selective Weed Killers: These are your best friends for lawns. They target broadleaf weeds (like plantain or thistle) but leave your grass alone. This is the feature you usually want.
- Non-Selective Weed Killers: These kill everything they touch, including your good grass. Only use these carefully on driveways or bare spots.
Speed of Action and Longevity
- Some products work very fast, often showing results in just a few hours. Others take a few days. Decide what speed matters most to you.
- Check if the product offers “preventative” action. Some formulas stop new weeds from sprouting for weeks or months after application.
Application Method
- Are you looking for a liquid concentrate you mix with water, or ready-to-use spray? Think about how you prefer to apply chemicals.
Important Ingredients and Materials
The chemicals inside the bottle do the hard work. Understanding the active ingredients helps you choose strong products.
Common Active Ingredients
Most effective broadleaf killers use a combination of chemicals. Look for names like:
- 2,4-D: A very common ingredient that disrupts weed growth hormones.
- Dicamba: Another powerful hormone mimic that works on tough weeds.
- Mecoprop (MCPP): Often paired with 2,4-D to increase effectiveness against different types of weeds.
Always check the percentage of these ingredients listed on the label. Higher percentages usually mean a stronger product.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of a weed killer depends on more than just the chemicals.
Improving Quality
- Rainfastness: A high-quality product dries quickly and resists washing away if it rains soon after spraying. Check the label—usually, 1 to 4 hours is needed before rain.
- Temperature Range: Some premium formulas work well in slightly cooler weather, giving you a longer window to spray during spring or fall.
Reducing Quality (Things to Avoid)
- Drift Potential: Very fine sprays can drift onto desirable plants or vegetable gardens. Look for formulas that produce larger droplets to keep the spray where you aim it.
- Poor Labeling: If the instructions are confusing or don’t clearly list the weeds it controls, the product quality might be lower.
User Experience and Use Cases
How easy is the product to use? This significantly impacts your overall experience.
Ease of Use
Ready-to-spray containers are great for beginners. You just attach your hose and go. Concentrates save money but require careful measuring. Read reviews to see if users found the sprayer nozzle durable or if it clogged easily.
When to Use It
The best time to kill broadleaf weeds is when they are actively growing. This is usually in the spring or early fall. Avoid using weed killers when temperatures are very high (above 85°F) or when the grass is stressed from drought. Stress reduces the weed’s ability to absorb the chemical.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Broadleaf Weed Killers
Q: How soon after spraying can my dog go on the lawn?
A: Most manufacturers recommend keeping pets off the treated area until the spray has completely dried. This usually takes a few hours. Always check the specific product label for the exact waiting time.
Q: Will this kill clover in my St. Augustine grass?
A: St. Augustine grass is sensitive. Many standard weed killers can harm it. You must select a product specifically labeled as safe for St. Augustine or warm-season grasses. Always spot-test first.
Q: What is the difference between a liquid and a granular weed killer?
A: Liquid products mix with water and are absorbed quickly through the leaves. Granular products usually require watering them in after application so the chemical can reach the roots. Liquids often work faster.
Q: Can I apply this product right before I mow my lawn?
A: No. Wait at least two days before or two days after mowing. Mowing stresses the grass and weeds, which can reduce how well the weed killer works or cause grass damage.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: Results vary by product and weather. For fast-acting sprays, you might see yellowing or curling within 24 hours. Deeper root kill may take one to two weeks.
Q: Is it safe to use these products near my vegetable garden?
A: It is generally unsafe if the spray can drift. Never use a product near edible plants unless the label clearly states it is safe for use near food crops. Use a shield if spraying near garden beds.
Q: Why are some weed killers much more expensive?
A: More expensive weed killers often contain newer, more effective chemical combinations, work better in wider temperature ranges, or offer longer residual control (preventing future weeds).
Q: What happens if I accidentally spray grass instead of a weed?
A: If you used a selective killer, the grass might show slight discoloration but should recover. If you used a non-selective killer, the grass will likely die and you will need to reseed that area.
Q: Do I need to wear special gear?
A: Always wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, and gloves. If you are mixing concentrates or using powerful sprays, eye protection (goggles) is a good idea to protect your face.
Q: Can I use broadleaf killer in the fall?
A: Yes! Fall is one of the best times. Weeds are sending energy down to their roots to prepare for winter, making them absorb the herbicide very effectively.