Does your lawn look tired and patchy as the days get shorter? You want a vibrant green carpet next spring, right? Getting your lawn ready for winter is super important. But choosing the best fall fertilizer and weed killer can feel like a confusing maze. Should you use slow-release food? Which weed killer actually works before the cold hits?
Many homeowners worry about using the wrong products. They fear burning their grass or missing the perfect window to stop those stubborn winter weeds. These concerns are real, and the wrong choice means more work later.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what your lawn needs this fall. Learn the simple steps to pick the perfect combo of fertilizer and weed killer for a strong winter rest and an amazing spring comeback.
Let’s dive into making your lawn the envy of the neighborhood this coming season!
Top Fall Lawn Fertilizer And Weed Killer Recommendations
- Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed3 is a weed killer and lawn fertilizer that controls weeds and feeds grass in the fall for a better lawn next spring
- Fall weed and feed kills over 50 listed lawn weeds, including clover, dandelion, plantain, morningglory, chicory, eveningprimrose, and purslane
- Apply weed control plus grass fertilizer to a moist lawn when weeds are actively growing and temperatures are consistently between 60°F and 90°F
- This lawn care product is for use on Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass
- One 11.43 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed3 covers 4,000 sq. ft.
- Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed5 weed killer and lawn fertilizer controls listed weeds and feeds grass in the fall for a better lawn next spring
- Fall weed and feed kills over 50 listed lawn weeds, including clover, dandelion, plantain, morningglory, chicory, evening primrose, and purslane
- Apply weed control plus grass fertilizer to a wet lawn when weeds are actively growing and temperatures are consistently between 60°F and 90°F
- This lawn care product can be used on Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, or Zoysiagrass
- One 11.28 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed5 covers 4,000 sq. ft.
- Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed3 is a weed killer and lawn fertilizer that controls weeds and feeds grass in the fall for a better lawn next spring
- Fall weed and feed kills over 50 listed lawn weeds, including clover, dandelion, plantain, morningglory, chicory, eveningprimrose, and purslane
- Apply weed control plus grass fertilizer to a moist lawn when weeds are actively growing and temperatures are consistently between 60°F and 90°F
- This lawn care product is for use on Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass
- One 34.3lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed3 covers 12,000 sq. ft.
- Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed5 weed killer and lawn fertilizer controls listed weeds and feeds grass in the fall for a better lawn next spring
- Fall weed and feed kills over 50 listed lawn weeds, including clover, dandelion, plantain, morningglory, chicory, evening primrose, and purslane
- Apply weed control plus grass fertilizer to a wet lawn when weeds are actively growing and temperatures are consistently between 60°F and 90°F
- This lawn care product can be used on Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, or Zoysiagrass
- One 33.84 lb. bag of Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed5 covers 12,000 sq. ft.
- 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.
- Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts prevents crabgrass all season long
- This pre-emergent grassy weed killer stops crabgrass before it starts
- Apply in early spring for season-long prevention of crabgrass, or apply in fall to prevent winter weeds such as Poa annua, henbit, and chickweed
- Do not apply this lawn care product to Dichondra and Bentgrass
- One 10.06 lb. bag of Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts covers 5,000 sq. ft.
- Up to 2X more powerful dandelion and clover control vs. previous formula
- Clears out dandelions and other listed weeds—satisfaction guaranteed
- WeedGrip Technology grips the weeds you see—and the ones you don't
- Feeds for a better lawn next spring
- Regular feedings provide the nutrients your lawn needs to look its best
Your Guide to a Perfect Fall Lawn: Fertilizer and Weed Killer
Fall is a crucial time for your lawn. Proper feeding and weed control now set you up for a lush, green spring. Choosing the right fall fertilizer and weed killer makes all the difference. This guide helps you pick the best products.
Key Features to Look For
What makes a good fall lawn product?
Look for specific features in your fall lawn care items. These features help your grass store energy for winter and fight off weeds.
- High Potassium (K): Potassium helps grass handle cold weather stress. It strengthens the roots. Look for a higher number in the N-P-K ratio for the last number.
- Slow-Release Nitrogen (N): Slow-release nitrogen feeds your lawn steadily over several weeks. This prevents sudden, weak growth right before frost.
- Broadleaf Weed Control: The best fall weed killers target common winter weeds like clover and dandelions. Check the label to ensure it kills the weeds you see most often.
- Lawn Safety: Ensure the product is safe for your type of grass (like Fescue, Bluegrass, or Bermuda). Some products harm new grass seed.
Important Materials in Your Mix
What ingredients should I check for?
The ingredients list tells you exactly what you are putting on your lawn. Understanding these helps you make smart choices.
- Fertilizer Components: Nitrogen (N) builds green growth. Phosphorus (P) supports root development (though often lower in fall formulas). Potassium (K) boosts overall plant health and cold tolerance.
- Weed Killer Chemicals: Common active ingredients in weed killers include 2,4-D, Dicamba, and MCPP. These chemicals work by disrupting how the weeds grow. Always read the safety instructions for these chemicals.
- Pre-Emergent Option: If you want to stop spring weeds (like crabgrass) before they start, choose a fertilizer that includes a pre-emergent herbicide. This forms a barrier in the soil.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one product better than another?
Product quality depends on how well it works and how easy it is to use. Poor quality products often waste your time and money.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Uniform Granules: For granular fertilizers, consistent, small particle sizes spread evenly. Even spreading means even feeding across the whole lawn.
- Rain Resistance: Weed killers that resist washing away after a light rain are more effective.
- Clear Instructions: High-quality products provide simple mixing ratios or spreading rates.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Dusty Formulas: Dusty granular products blow away easily during application. This wastes product and pollutes the air.
- Fast-Release Nitrogen: Too much fast-release nitrogen can burn your grass if applied too heavily.
- Inconsistent Weed Control: If a weed killer only works on one type of weed when you need it to kill three, its quality is low for your needs.
User Experience and Use Cases
When and how should I use these products?
Using the right product at the right time is essential for success. Fall lawn care has two main goals.
Use Case 1: Late Summer/Early Fall Feeding (The “Prep” Feed)
Use a balanced fertilizer early in the fall. This helps repair summer damage. You can use this when you notice the first cool nights.
Use Case 2: Late Fall Feeding (The “Winterizer”)
Apply a high-potassium fertilizer just before the grass stops growing for the winter. This is often the most important feeding. It builds strong roots that survive the freeze. You should apply this when daytime temperatures are consistently below 60°F.
Weed Killing Application:
Apply liquid weed killers when weeds are actively growing, usually mid-fall. The weeds pull the chemical down into their roots better when they are feeding heavily. Avoid applying weed killer if rain is expected within 24 hours.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When is the absolute best time to apply fall fertilizer?
A: The best time is late fall, just before the grass goes completely dormant. This is often called the “winterizer” application.
Q: Can I use regular weed killer in the fall?
A: You can, but fall-specific weed killers often target winter annuals better. Check the label to ensure it works on the weeds you see now.
Q: Does fall fertilizer make my grass grow too much before winter?
A: Good fall fertilizers use slow-release nitrogen. This feeds the roots, not the blades, preventing excessive top growth.
Q: What does the N-P-K ratio mean on the bag?
A: N is Nitrogen (for green tops), P is Phosphorus (for roots), and K is Potassium (for hardiness). Fall formulas usually have a lower P and higher K.
Q: Should I water the lawn after applying granular fertilizer?
A: Yes. Light watering helps dissolve the granules so the nutrients can reach the soil and grass roots.
Q: Can I spread fertilizer and weed killer at the same time?
A: It depends on the product. If they are separate products, wait at least two weeks between applications for best results.
Q: Will fall weed killer kill my grass?
A: Most fall weed killers are selective. They target broadleaf weeds but leave turf grasses unharmed, provided you follow the directions exactly.
Q: What if my grass is newly seeded? Can I use fall weed killer?
A: No. Most weed killers will harm or kill new grass seedlings. Wait until the new grass has gone through at least one full growing cycle.
Q: How much potassium do I need for winter hardiness?
A: Look for a fertilizer where the last number (K) is equal to or higher than the first number (N). For example, 10-0-15 would be good.
Q: What should I do if I see brown spots after applying a product?
A: Brown spots usually mean the product was applied too heavily in that small area (fertilizer burn) or the weed killer was too strong. Water the area deeply to try and flush the excess chemical through the soil.