Does your beautiful Texas lawn look more like a patchy, weed-infested battlefield than a green oasis? You’re not alone! Keeping a lush, healthy lawn in the Lone Star State is a constant battle. The intense Texas heat, unpredictable rain, and stubborn local weeds team up to make lawn care tough work.
Choosing the right weed killer adds another layer of frustration. Should you use a pre-emergent or a post-emergent? Will it harm your St. Augustine grass? The sheer number of products and conflicting advice can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what actually works best for our unique climate.
Don’t let crabgrass and dandelions win this season! This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the best, most effective weed killers specifically tested and proven for Texas lawns. You will learn exactly which products target common Southern weeds without frying your turf.
Ready to reclaim your yard? Keep reading to discover the secrets to a perfectly weed-free Texas lawn, starting now.
Top Weed Killer For Lawns In Texas Recommendations
- WEED CONTROL: Southern weed and feed weed killer controls dollar weed, clover, dandelion, chickweed, oxalis, henbit, purslane, and more as listed
- DUAL ACTION: Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed2 weed killer plus Scotts fertilizer for grass kills existing weeds as listed, and feeds grass to crowd out future weeds and build strong, deep roots
- APPLICATION: Apply this lawn weed killer with fertilizer to a dry lawn when grass and weeds are actively growing; this lawn food must be watered in immediately after application
- GRASS TYPES: Lawn food for grass including St. Augustinegrass (including Floratam), Centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, and Carpetgrass; do not apply to Bermudagrass
- COVERAGE: One 34.48 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed2 covers 10,000 sq. ft.
- ELITE WEED DEFENSE - Sedgehammer + offers unparalleled defense against nutsedge & up to 25 additional challenging weeds. Crafted for the discerning homeowner for small-scale use, this nutsedge weed killer quickly transforms your landscape into a verdant sanctuary
- PROUDLY MADE IN THE USA - Sedgehammer herbicides are all made in the USA, embodying the pinnacle of premium quality that every yard deserves
- SIMPLY MEASURE, MIX, & APPLY - Our nut grass killer for lawns redefines user convenience with its integrated dry, non-ionic surfactant, creating a weed killer mix without the extra additives. With crystal-clear instructions, it provides an easy, hassle-free experience
- TENDER ON TURF, TOUGH ON WEEDS - Sedgehammer nutsedge killer easily eliminates nutsedge without compromising your turfgrass or other plants. Once our pet safe weed killer completely dries, you and your pets will be all set to play time
- COST-EFFECTIVE SOLUTION - With Sedgehammer Plus Turf Herbicide, a little goes a long way; just one 13.5g (0.5oz) packet unleashes powerful weed control over an expansive 1,000 sq ft. despite cold or warm climates
- FEEDS LAWNS FOR UP TO 3 MONTHS - The lawn fertilizer has an analysis of 21-0-3 and is designed to promote lush green growth. It provides gradual, consistent nutrient release for up to 3 months. Cannot be used at the same time as seeding a new lawn.
- CONTROLS OVER 250 WEEDS - Green-Up Weed & Feed kills weeds down to the root. Our weed killer controls over 250 broadleaf weeds including dandelions, chickweed, clover, wild onions, thistle, poison ivy, and more.
- FINE PARTICLE SIZE - The fine particle size of Green-Up Weed & Feed is perfect for weed control and feeding action. It feeds desirable grass longer while weeds gradually disappear from the lawn.
- EASY TO APPLY - Green-Up Weed & Feed should be applied using a rotary, drop, or hand-held spreader. Best results are obtained by applying when weeds are actively growing.
- COMPLETE COVERAGE - This 15 lb bag covers up to 5,000 sq. ft. The best time to apply is late spring or early fall.
- FEEDS LAWNS FOR UP TO 3 MONTHS - The lawn fertilizer has an analysis of 21-0-3 and is designed to promote lush green growth. It provides gradual, consistent nutrient release for up to 3 months. Cannot be used at the same time as seeding a new lawn.
- CONTROLS OVER 250 WEEDS - Green-Up Weed & Feed kills weeds down to the root. Our weed killer controls over 250 broadleaf weeds including dandelions, chickweed, clover, wild onions, thistle, poison ivy, and more.
- FINE PARTICLE SIZE - The fine particle size of Green-Up Weed & Feed is perfect for weed control and feeding action. It feeds desirable grass longer while weeds gradually disappear from the lawn.
- EASY TO APPLY - Green-Up Weed & Feed should be applied using a rotary, drop, or hand-held spreader. Best results are obtained by applying when weeds are actively growing.
- COMPLETE COVERAGE - This 45 lb bag covers up to 15,000 sq. ft. The best time to apply is late spring or early fall.
- PLEASE READ BELOW ** --- NOT AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN THESE STATES: THIS PRODUCT IS NON RETURNABLE. CANNOT RETURN AFTER PURCHASE. EPA REGULATIONS!!
- CA, CO, CT, DE, HI, IL, IN, ME, MD, MA, MI, NH, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, PA, VA, DC, UT, AK, HI, RI, VT, TX (License Restriction), WA. Applicator Licenses Colorado requires an applicators licence for all soil sterilants. Texas requires an applicators licence for all Total ground and soil sterilants Washington requires an applicators licence to sell Banish, Barren and Turf King.
- Barren is an herbicide that does not require any dilution with water.
- Weed Control Friendly – Made Of Heavy-Duty Professional Grade Polypropylene Material, durable, sturdy and corrosion resistant. Friendly preventing unwanted weeds from germinating without chemicals.Keep your soil health. Doesn't harm the ecosystem of your yard and llowing your plants to thrive.
- Premium Weed Barrier Fabric - Heavy Duty Weed blocker fabric is needle-punched to transmit water and air, preserving the soil moisture. Fabric allows air and water through, superior permeability to keep the soil nourished, but still keeps weeds away.
- Erosion Control Efficiency - Weed Blocking Fabric Can Be Quickly Implemented To Contain Materials And Prevent Further Erosion On Your Gardening, Lines Helped To Judge Straightness And Spacing.
- Sturdy & Corrosion Resistant - UV Stabilized And Great Thick Garden Fabric Will Last More Than 5 Years In Direct Sunlight, Provide a Long Time Weed Protection, Just Water Cleaning To Be Reusable
- Widely Application: Weed block works great as an underlayer for artificial grass, vegetable patch, flower bed,ground cover, garden, driveways. You Can DIY Cloth Size By yourself Will Not Fray.
- Edwin Rollin Spencer (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 368 Pages - 11/30/2011 (Publication Date) - Dover Publications (Publisher)
Choosing the Best Weed Killer for Your Texas Lawn
Texas summers are tough, and so are the weeds that try to take over your beautiful lawn. Finding the right weed killer is important. This guide helps you pick the best product to keep your grass green and weed-free.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for weed killer in Texas, look for products that match your lawn’s needs. Not all weed killers work the same way.
1. Target Weeds vs. Lawn Safety (Selective vs. Non-Selective)
- Selective Weed Killers: These are best for lawns. They kill specific weeds (like dandelions or clover) but leave your desirable grass (like Bermuda or St. Augustine) unharmed. This is usually what homeowners need.
- Non-Selective Weed Killers: These kill everything they touch, including your grass. Use these only for driveways, patios, or preparing a new garden bed.
2. Pre-Emergent vs. Post-Emergent
- Pre-Emergent: This stops weeds before they even sprout. Apply this in late winter or early spring to prevent summer weeds like crabgrass. This is a great preventative step.
- Post-Emergent: This kills weeds that are already growing. You spray this directly onto visible weeds.
3. Active Ingredients
The active ingredients determine how the product works. Look for common lawn-safe ingredients like 2,4-D, Dicamba, or MCPP in liquid sprays. For pre-emergents, look for Prodiamine or Dithiopyr.
Important Materials and Application Types
The ingredients matter, but so does how you apply the product. Consider the material format that fits your lawn size and convenience.
Application Formats
- Granular Products: These look like fertilizer pellets. You spread them using a broadcast or drop spreader. They are easy to measure and often include fertilizer.
- Liquid Concentrates: You mix these with water in a sprayer. They often work faster than granular products and soak into the soil well.
- Ready-to-Use Sprays: These come in a container with a built-in sprayer. They are convenient for small lawns or spot treatments but can be more expensive per ounce.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Texas weather plays a huge role in how well your weed killer works. Always check the label for temperature restrictions.
Factors That Improve Quality (Effectiveness)
- Proper Timing: Apply pre-emergents when soil temperatures are right (usually around 55°F for several days). Apply post-emergents when weeds are actively growing.
- Calm Conditions: Spray when there is no wind. Strong winds blow the spray onto your flowers or your neighbor’s lawn, which ruins the application.
- Rain Forecast: Choose a product that needs dry conditions for a few hours after application to absorb properly.
Factors That Reduce Quality (Lawn Damage Risk)
- Over-Application: Applying too much product stresses your grass and can burn it, especially in the Texas heat. Stick strictly to the label’s mixing and spreading rates.
- High Temperatures: Many herbicides become less effective, or even dangerous to your grass, when temperatures are above 85°F. Heat stress makes grass weak, and weed killer can burn stressed grass easily.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you plan to use the product. Your experience will change based on your lawn size and how much effort you want to put in.
For Large Texas Yards (1/4 Acre or More)
Users prefer granular products or mixing large batches of liquid concentrate. They use spreaders for even coverage. The focus here is efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
For Small, Ornamental Lawns
Ready-to-use spray bottles or small spot-treatment wands offer better control. Users value accuracy over speed in these smaller areas.
Always read the safety instructions. Wear gloves and long sleeves when mixing or spraying chemicals, especially under the Texas sun.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Texas Weed Killers
Q: When is the best time to apply pre-emergent in North Texas?
A: Apply pre-emergent when the soil temperature consistently hits about 55°F. This is usually late February or early March before the spring rains.
Q: Can I use a weed killer made for Northern lawns in South Texas?
A: Maybe not. Always check the label. Grass types (like St. Augustine in the south versus Buffalo Grass further north) react differently to chemicals. Look for products specifically labeled for your grass type.
Q: How long should I wait after spraying before letting my dog back on the lawn?
A: Wait until the treated area is completely dry, usually 2 to 4 hours. Follow the specific re-entry time listed on your product’s label for safety.
Q: Does rain wash away weed killer immediately?
A: If the label says the product needs 24 hours to dry, heavy rain before that time will wash the product away, making it ineffective.
Q: Which is better for killing dandelions: liquid or granular?
A: Liquid post-emergent sprays often kill tough, established weeds like dandelions faster because they absorb quickly through the leaves.
Q: Can I fertilize and kill weeds at the same time?
A: Yes, many popular products combine weed killer and slow-release fertilizer (often called “Weed and Feed”). Ensure the application timing is right for both components.
Q: What chemical should I avoid if I have St. Augustine grass?
A: Be very cautious with Atrazine and high doses of 2,4-D, as these can sometimes damage or kill St. Augustine grass, especially when applied in hot weather.
Q: How often should I spot-treat weeds during the summer?
A: Spot-treating can happen every 3 to 4 weeks as new weeds pop up, but always allow the grass time to recover between applications.
Q: What is the main difference between a broadleaf killer and a grass killer?
A: Broadleaf killers target weeds with wide, flat leaves (like clover). Grass killers target grassy weeds (like crabgrass) that look like thin blades of grass.
Q: Will one application kill everything?
A: No. Pre-emergents only prevent. Post-emergents usually require 7 to 14 days to show full effect, and tough weeds might need a second application.