Imagine a perfectly green, lush lawn. Now, picture pesky dandelions and stubborn clover ruining that beautiful view. Who hasn’t felt that frustration? You want a healthy yard, but those unwanted invaders make it look messy. Choosing the right weed killer can feel like a puzzle. Should you use a spray or granules? Will it harm your grass? These questions stop many homeowners from tackling weeds effectively.
Navigating the garden center aisle is tough. Labels are confusing, and you worry about accidentally hurting your beautiful turfgrass. That’s why understanding selective weed killers is so important. These special products target the bad guys—the weeds—while leaving your good grass unharmed. They are the secret weapon for a professional-looking yard.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will clearly explain what selective weed killers do and how to pick the best one for your lawn’s specific problems. Keep reading to learn the secrets to a weed-free, vibrant green space that everyone admires. Let’s dive into making your lawn the envy of the neighborhood.
Top Selective Weed Killer For Lawns Recommendations
- 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: 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
- KILLS WEEDS – NOT THE LAWN: When used as directed
- VISIBLE RESULTS IN 5 HOURS: Conquer unruly weeds and see visible results in as fast as 5 hours
- KILLS 470+ WEED TYPES AS LISTED: Kills broadleaf and grassy weeds including dandelion, chickweed and clover as well as crabgrass and yellow nutsedge – see product label for complete list of weed types
- KILLS THE ROOT: Kills weeds by contact down to the root
- READY-TO-USE FORMULA: No mixing required
- 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
- Kills 253 types of weeds (see inside booklet for weed list), including crabgrass, dandelion, clover, yellow nutsedge, poison ivy, chickweed, oxalis, and purslane
- The Roundup For Lawns₁ Refill is the fast and easy way to refill any Roundup For Lawns₁ container
- 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)
- 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
- Weed killer for lawns: Kill weeds including dandelion, dollarweed, chickweed, and clover without harming your lawn (when used as directed) with Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Use1
- Fast-acting weed control: This weed control product kills over 250 listed weeds, including dandelion, clover, chickweed, creeping charlie, and dollarweed, and produces results in hours
- Spot treatment for weeds: Won't harm lawn grasses when used as directed - use on Bahiagrass, Bentgrass, Bermudagrass (hybrid and common), Buffalograss, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, Zoysiagrass, and St. Augustinegrass (except Floratam)
- 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 Ready-to-Use1 comes with the continuous-spray Comfort Wand applicator to spot treat weeds in your lawn
- This selective weed killer kills or controls many Broadleaf Weeds and plants susceptible to 2, 4-D.
- Works on Dandelion, Arrowhead, Buckhorn, Aster, Goatsbeard and more. See label for full list.
- Pairs great with Hi-Yield Spreader Sticker (31063) for increased effectiveness.
- Product can be used on Lawns, Ponds, Drainage Ditches, Pastures and Rangelands.
- See product label for application rates and instruction
- 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.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Selective Weed Killer for a Lush Lawn
Tired of pesky weeds taking over your beautiful green lawn? A selective weed killer is your secret weapon. This guide will help you pick the right product so you can enjoy a healthier, greener yard without harming your grass. We break down what to look for, what’s inside, and how to use it like a pro.
Key Features to Look For
Not all weed killers are the same. Look for these features to ensure you get the best results:
- Selectivity: This is the most important part! A good selective killer targets broadleaf weeds (like clover and dandelions) but leaves your desirable turf grass untouched. Check the label carefully to confirm it works with your grass type (e.g., fescue, bluegrass).
- Speed of Action: How fast do you want results? Some products work within hours, showing visible damage quickly. Others take a week or two for full effect.
- Longevity (Residual Effect): Some killers stop weeds from coming back for several weeks after application. Others only kill what is currently growing. Decide if you want short-term control or longer protection.
- Application Method: Do you prefer a ready-to-use spray, a concentrate you mix with water, or granules you spread? Match the method to your lawn size and your preference for mixing chemicals.
Important Ingredients and Materials
The “active ingredients” are what actually kill the weeds. Understanding these helps you choose powerful and safe options.
Common Active Ingredients:
- 2,4-D, Dicamba, and MCPP (or Mecoprop): These are very common trio often found together. They are excellent at controlling many common broadleaf weeds.
- Sulfonylureas: These ingredients are often used for longer-lasting control at very low application rates.
Safety First: Always check the label for safety warnings. Make sure the materials listed are safe for pets and children once the product has dried, as specified by the manufacturer.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your weed killer depends on several things:
What Makes a Product Better:
- Broad Spectrum Control: A high-quality product kills a wide variety of common lawn weeds, not just one or two types.
- Rainfastness: This is how quickly the product sticks to the weed and stops washing off. A high rainfastness rating means you can apply it before a light rain and still get good results.
- Compatibility: The best products mix easily if you are using a concentrate. Poor quality products might separate or clog your sprayer.
What Reduces Effectiveness:
- Temperature: Applying weed killer when it is too hot (usually above 85°F) can stress your grass, potentially damaging the lawn instead of just killing the weeds.
- Improper Mixing: If you use too little water for a concentrate, the product might be too strong and burn your grass. Too much water makes the product too weak to kill the weeds.
- Weed Maturity: Young, actively growing weeds absorb the chemical much better than old, established, tough weeds.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the product greatly affects your success.
Best Use Cases:
- Spot Treating: If you only have a few weeds, use a ready-to-use spray bottle to target individual plants. This conserves product.
- Lawn-Wide Treatment: For a lawn covered in weeds, granular products spread evenly with a spreader or a large liquid application is usually best.
- Pre-Emergent vs. Post-Emergent: Remember that selective killers are usually *post-emergent*—they kill weeds that are already growing. If you want to stop weeds before they sprout (like crabgrass), you need a *pre-emergent* product, which is different.
Tips for Success: Always read the directions on how much product to use per square foot. Wear gloves and protective clothing when handling chemicals. Wait the recommended time before watering or mowing after application.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Selective Weed Killers
Q: What is the main difference between selective and non-selective weed killer?
A: Selective weed killer targets specific types of weeds, usually broadleaf ones, without hurting your grass. Non-selective weed killer, like glyphosate, kills almost all plants it touches, including your lawn.
Q: Will selective weed killer kill clover in my lawn?
A: Most high-quality selective lawn weed killers are specifically designed to control common broadleaf weeds like clover, dandelion, and plantain effectively.
Q: How long should I wait to water my lawn after applying a liquid selective killer?
A: Check the label, but generally, you should wait at least 24 hours before watering. This allows the chemical time to stick to the weed leaves and get absorbed.
Q: Can I use this if I have St. Augustine grass?
A: No, you must check the label! Some ingredients that are safe for cool-season grasses (like fescue) will severely damage or kill warm-season grasses (like St. Augustine or Bermuda). Always confirm compatibility.
Q: What is the best time of year to apply these products?
A: The best time is usually spring when weeds are actively growing but temperatures are mild (between 60°F and 80°F). Fall applications can also be very effective for deep-rooted perennial weeds.
Q: How fast should I see results after spraying?
A: Results vary. Some products show wilting within 24 to 48 hours. Others might take a full week or two for the weed to completely die back.
Q: Is it okay if my dog walks on the lawn right after I spray?
A: No. Keep pets and children off the treated area until the spray has completely dried. This usually takes a few hours, but always follow the specific drying time listed on the product instructions.
Q: What should I do if the product is a concentrate?
A: You must carefully measure the concentrate and mix it with the amount of water specified on the label before pouring it into your sprayer. Accuracy in mixing is key for safety and effectiveness.
Q: Will one application kill stubborn weeds like ground ivy?
A: Tough, deep-rooted perennial weeds often need more than one application. You might need to re-treat the area 2 to 4 weeks after the first application, depending on the product instructions.
Q: Does rain immediately after application ruin the treatment?
A: Heavy rain right after spraying can wash the chemical away, reducing effectiveness. Look for products labeled as “rainfast” within 1-3 hours of application, as these stick better.