Does your dream lawn look more like a battlefield against pesky dandelions and stubborn clover? You spend hours mowing, watering, and dreaming of that perfect, emerald carpet, only to have unwanted guests march right in. Choosing the right product to feed your grass *and* fight those weeds can feel like a confusing puzzle. Do you fertilize first? Do you use a separate weed killer? The choices overwhelm even the savviest homeowner.
The truth is, using a combination product—a fertilizer that also kills weeds—can save you time and effort. But picking the wrong one can scorch your beautiful grass or simply fail to stop the invaders. We know you want a simple solution that delivers results without turning your yard brown.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will explain exactly how these dual-action products work, what ingredients to look for, and how to apply them safely for maximum impact. Get ready to trade your frustration for a lush, weed-free lawn that makes your neighbors jealous. Let’s dive into finding the perfect fertilizer to kill weeds in your lawn today.
Top Fertilizer To Kill Weeds In Lawn Recommendations
- KILLS TOUGH WEEDS: Apply our revolutionary 5-in-1 Weed and Feed formula to actively growing turf to target over 200 listed types of weeds, including hard-to-kill weeds like dandelions, clovers, and black medic
- PREVENTS NEW WEEDS UP TO 6 MONTHS: Forms a protective soil barrier that prevents listed weeds from emerging for up to 6 months; Apply in spring or early summer, even if Crabgrass and weeds have already sprouted
- KILLS LARGE CRABGRASS: Contains four proven weed killers to control crabgrass, killing to the root; Crabgrass starts to turn purple in 3 days, that's the sign it's working; Creates a long-lasting barrier that helps stop crabgrass from returning for up to 6 months
- FEEDS & GREENS: Fertilizer feeds and greens your lawn for up to 3 months to promote thicker, healthier turf; Apply granules with a broadcast or drop spreader for smooth, even coverage across established lawns
- GET MORE FROM THE BLUE BOTTLE: From simple spot treatments to season-long protection, BioAdvanced's science-based solutions make it simple to control unsightly weeds, feed your lawn, and protect against damaging diseases without harming the lawn
- WEED KILLER SPRAY FOR LAWNS: With a simple hose-end application, kill weeds in your lawn, including dandelions, chickweed, clover, crabgrass and foxtail with Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray
- FAST-ACTING WEED CONTROL: This weed killer hose sprayer kills listed weeds like crabgrass, dandelion, clover, chickweed and creeping charlie down to the root and gets results with 1 application
- COVERAGE: This 32 fl. oz. container of Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray provides up to 5,000 sq. ft. of lawn care
- HOW TO USE: Apply to listed lawn weeds that are young and actively growing by connecting your garden hose to the weed killer sprayer, sliding the switch to "ON" and spraying evenly until the lawn is wet
- WHERE TO USE: This spray weed killer for lawns won't harm lawn grasses when used as directed - use on lawn grasses including Bermudagrass, Buffalograss, Fescues, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass and Zoysiagrass
- 3-IN-1 FORMULA: Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1 is a three-in-one lawn fertilizer and weed control formula that kills listed lawn weeds, prevents crabgrass, and feeds grass to build thick, green lawns
- WHERE TO USE: This grass fertilizer, crabgrass preventer, and clover and dandelion killer for lawns is for use on Bahiagrass, Centipedegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, Bermudagrass, Tall Fescue, Fine Fescue, and Zoysiagrass
- LAWN WEED CONTROL: This lawn care product is a weed killer for lawns that controls dandelion, clover, dollarweed, ground ivy, chickweed, plantain, henbit, English daisy, and other listed lawn weeds
- CRABGRASS PREVENTER: This pre-emergent weed killer also prevents crabgrass for 4 months (will not kill existing crabgrass); stops other listed grassy weeds from invading your lawn
- HOW TO USE: Apply to a wet lawn with a Scotts spreader, then water in after 24 hours; apply in early spring when dandelions are actively growing
- 10 MINUTE LAWN CARE: A 32 fl. oz. bottle of Scotts Turf Builder Liquid Lawn Food Plus Weed Control connects to your hose and provides 2,000 sq. ft. of weed control for lawns in 10 minutes
- LESS PLASTIC WASTE: The reusable applicator is designed to be used with our refill bottles of fertilizer plus lawn weed killer (sold separately)
- 2-IN-1 FORMULA: Our dual-action weed and feed for lawns controls stubborn weeds like dandelions and clover while feeding your grass to build a thicker, greener lawn that crowds out future weeds
- EASY TO USE: The translucent lawn food plus weed killer spray bottle lets you see exactly how much product you’re using as you spray, eliminating guesswork
- USE ON MOST LAWNS: This fertilizer plus weed killer for lawns is labeled for use on most common lawns, including bluegrass, fescue, ryegrass, bahiagrass, bermudagrass (common and hybrid), centipedegrass, and zoysiagrass when weeds are actively growing
- Up to 2X more powerful dandelion and clover control (vs. previous formula)
- Clears out dandelions and clover—satisfaction guaranteed
- Weedgrip Technology grips the weeds you see—and the ones you don't
- Scotts most powerful weed and feed
- Feeds to thicken lawns and crowd out weeds
- KILLS WEEDS, NOT THE LAWN: Won’t harm lawns when used as directed – kills more than 200 types of weeds as listed
- CONTROLS ALL MAJOR BROADLEAF WEEDS: Controls dandelion, chickweed and clover (see product label for complete list)
- KILLS THE ROOT: See overnight results
- RAINPROOF: Rainfall or watering 6 hours after application will not wash away effectiveness
- COVERAGE: 32 ounce bottle treats up to 16,000 square feet.
- FOR SOUTHERN LAWNS: Specially formulated for Bermudagrass, St. Augustinegrass including Floratam, Centipedegrass, and Zoysiagrass to kill Dandelion, Dollarweed, Clover, and other listed broadleaf weeds.
- PREVENTS WEEDS UP TO 6 MONTHS: One application creates a barrier against listed broadleaf, grassy weeds, and crabgrass for up to 6 months; apply between 50–90°F (not above 85°F on Bermudagrass) when weeds are actively growing
- FEEDS AND GREENS YOUR LAWN: Slow-release fertilizer feeds and greens established Southern turf for up to 3 months, promoting thicker, stronger grass, apply evenly with a broadcast or drop spreader
- KILLS LISTED LAWN INSECTS: Insect killer targets Fire Ants*, Armyworms, Army Cutworms, Mole Crickets, Chinch Bugs, and other listed pests in one application. *Kills fire ants upon initial application only
- GET MORE FROM THE BLUE BAG: BioAdvanced science-based solutions let you control listed weeds and feed your lawn without harming it when used as directed, everything your Southern lawn needs in one bag
- ALL-IN-ONE FORMULA: BioAdvanced's All-in-One formula kills listed lawn weeds and crabgrass without harming the lawn
- KILLS TOUGH WEEDS: Control over 200 broadleaf weeds like dandelion, clover, and crabgrass using our powerful weed killer concentrate
- DOWN TO THE ROOT: BioAdvanced All-In-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer I penetrates and removes tough listed weeds down to the root
- RAINPROOF IN ONE HOUR: Our weed killer concentrate formula is rainproof in one hour, providing protection that wont wash away
- EASY-TO-USE CONCENTRATE: Easily apply with our concentrated formula, perfect for targeting weeds in your lawn, and compatible with various grass types
Choosing the Right Weed Killer Fertilizer for a Lush Lawn
Want a green, weed-free lawn? You need a fertilizer that fights weeds too! These special products feed your grass while stopping unwanted plants. This guide helps you pick the best one for your yard.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look closely at the bag or container. Good weed-and-feed products have important features.
1. Active Weed Killer Ingredients
- Selective Herbicides: These are the most important. They kill specific weeds (like dandelions or clover) but leave your grass unharmed. Look for ingredients like 2,4-D, MCPP, or Dicamba.
- Pre-Emergent vs. Post-Emergent:
- Post-Emergent: Kills weeds that are already growing.
- Pre-Emergent: Stops weed seeds from sprouting in the first place (great for crabgrass prevention).
2. Fertilizer Numbers (N-P-K Ratio)
Fertilizers show three numbers, like 20-5-10. This tells you the amount of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K).
- Nitrogen (N): Makes your grass green and helps it grow fast. For a good feed, look for a higher first number.
- Phosphorus (P): Helps young roots grow strong.
- Potassium (K): Keeps the grass healthy and strong against stress.
3. Application Type
Most weed-and-feed products come in granular (small pellets) or liquid form. Granular is easier for beginners to spread evenly.
Important Materials and Safety
The quality of the materials matters a lot. You want ingredients that work well and are safe when used correctly.
- Coated Fertilizers: Some nitrogen is coated. This releases the food slowly over weeks, giving your lawn a steady meal instead of one big burst that might burn the grass.
- Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Always check if the manufacturer provides safety information. Read the label carefully before mixing or spreading.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one product better than another?
Quality Boosters:
- Weed Spectrum: A product that targets the specific weeds common in your area works best.
- Slow-Release Nitrogen: This feeds your lawn longer, meaning fewer trips to spread fertilizer.
Quality Reducers (What to Avoid):
- High Weed Killer Concentration (Without Fertilizer): If the main goal seems to be killing weeds, but the grass food (N-P-K) is very low, your lawn might suffer long-term.
- Improper Spreader Calibration: Even the best product works poorly if you dump it all in one spot. Even application is key.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about when and how you plan to use the product.
When to Apply:
Most weed killers work best when the weeds are actively growing. This is usually late spring or early fall. If you use a pre-emergent, you must apply it before the weed seeds germinate (often early spring).
Lawn Type Consideration:
Some weed killers are safe for Kentucky Bluegrass but might hurt certain types of fescue or St. Augustine grass. Check the label to make sure the product matches your lawn type.
Tip for Success: Water lightly after applying granular products. This helps the fertilizer move down to the roots and activates the chemicals.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Weed Killer Fertilizers
Q: Can I use weed killer fertilizer if it just rained?
A: No. If the ground is soaked, the product might just wash away into storm drains instead of sticking to the weeds and grass. Wait for a dry period.
Q: How long until I see the weeds die?
A: Post-emergent weed killers usually start working within a week or two. You should see yellowing or curling of the weeds.
Q: Is it safe to let my dog or kids play on the lawn after using this?
A: Not immediately. Always wait the required re-entry time listed on the product label, usually until the product has dried completely and washed off the grass blades.
Q: What is the difference between a weed killer and a pre-emergent?
A: A weed killer kills existing weeds. A pre-emergent creates a barrier in the soil that stops new weed seeds from sprouting.
Q: My grass looks yellow after applying. Did I use too much?
A: Yes, this is often called “fertilizer burn.” It usually happens because too much product was applied to one spot, or it was applied when the grass was very dry.
Q: Should I mow my lawn before or after applying the product?
A: It is best to mow a few days before applying. Do not mow for at least two days after application so the product can stay on the leaves or absorb into the soil.
Q: Does this product work on all types of weeds?
A: No. Most are selective. They kill broadleaf weeds (like clover) but usually do not kill grassy weeds (like crabgrass). You need a product specifically labeled for grassy weeds.
Q: What N-P-K ratio is best for spring feeding?
A: In the spring, you want high nitrogen for growth, so look for a higher first number (N) like 20-5-10 or 30-0-4.
Q: How often should I apply a weed and feed product?
A: Follow the bag instructions, but generally, you apply it once in the spring and once in the fall for best results.
Q: Can I use this on my vegetable garden?
A: Absolutely not. The herbicide chemicals in lawn weed killers can harm or kill your vegetables, even if you don’t see immediate damage.