Does your beautiful Southern lawn look more like a patchwork quilt of green grass and unwelcome invaders? You spend hours watering, mowing, and caring for your yard, only to see stubborn weeds pop up everywhere. It’s frustrating! Dealing with weeds in the South presents unique challenges. Our hot, humid summers and mild winters mean weeds grow fast and fight hard to stay put.
Choosing the right weed control can feel like a guessing game. Should you use a pre-emergent, a post-emergent, or try a natural remedy? Wrong choices can harm your grass or simply waste your money. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly how to identify common Southern weeds and pick the most effective, safe treatment for your specific lawn type.
Keep reading to unlock the secrets to a pristine, weed-free yard all year long. Let’s transform that patchy lawn into the envy of the neighborhood!
Top Weed Control For Southern Lawns Recommendations
- KILLS & PREVENTS WEEDS* UP TO 6 MONTHS: Kills broadleaf weeds*, including Dandelion, Clover, Chickweed and Henbit with a proven blend of weed killers *Listed
- CRABGRASS PREVENTION: Prevents grassy and listed broadleaf weeds such as Crabgrass, Annual Bluegrass, Common Dandelion, Goosegrass and Spurge for up to 6 months
- IDEAL FOR SOUTHERN LAWNS: Improve your lawn care with this broadleaf weed killer that treats up to 4,000 square feet of southern turf, including all varieties of St. Augustinegrass and Floratam
- READY FOR THE SEASON: With one application, this crabgrass preventer offers season-long weed control
- SIMPLE APPLICATION: Apply these weed killer granules with a rotary or drop spreader and water lightly 24 hours after applying
- 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 Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control kills weeds and gives your lawn a quick boost of nitrogen to promote greening
- Liquid weed killer plus fertilizer controls dandelion, clover, ground ivy, henbit, chickweed, plantain, poison ivy, and other broadleaf weeds as listed
- Apply this ready-to-spray weed and feed when weeds are actively growing
- This lawn care product is for use on Bluegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, Bahiagrass, Common Bermudagrass, Centipedegrass, and Zoysiagrass
- One 32 fl. oz. container of Scotts Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control provides coverage of 6,000 sq. ft. for warm season lawns and 4,000 sq. ft. for cool season lawns
- One quart treats 3,720 sq ft
- Controls Weeds in St. Augustine and Centipede Grasses
- Package Weight: 1.021 kilograms
- Package Dimensions: 5.842 L x 19.177 H x 12.954 W (centimeters)
- 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
- 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.
- 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
- KILLS TO THE ROOT: BioAdvanced Lawn Weed Killer controls listed weeds down to their roots and can cover up to 8,000 sq. ft. of lawn
- KILLS OVER 200 WEEDS: Kills over 200 listed lawn weeds, including clover, dandelion, dollarweed, and chickweed
- EASY APPLICATION: One application will kill listed weeds and won't harm your lawn (when used as directed)
- VERSATILE FOR YOUR LAWN: Formulated for both Southern and Northern lawns like Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, Bermuda, Buffalo, and some varieties of St. Augustinegrass
- RAINPROOF PROTECTION: Enjoy rainproof protection in 1 hour with this lawn weed killer spray
Your Essential Buying Guide for Weed Control in Southern Lawns
Southern lawns face tough challenges. Hot summers and humid weather mean weeds grow fast. Choosing the right weed control product keeps your grass green and healthy. This guide helps you pick the best solution for your yard.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, check the label closely. Good weed control products have specific features that make them work well in the South.
1. Weed Type Targeting
- Broadleaf Weeds: These are weeds with wide leaves, like clover or dandelions. Make sure the product kills these.
- Grassy Weeds: These look like grass but are weeds, such as crabgrass. You need a product that targets grassy invaders too.
2. Pre-Emergent vs. Post-Emergent
- Pre-Emergent: This stops seeds from sprouting. Apply this early in the spring before the weeds appear. It acts like a shield.
- Post-Emergent: This kills weeds already growing. Use this when you see visible weeds.
3. Grass Safety
The product must not harm your established lawn. Southern grasses like Bermuda, Zoysia, or St. Augustine need specific care. Always check that the label states it is safe for your grass type.
Important Materials in Weed Killers
The active ingredients are what do the heavy lifting. Different chemicals target different weeds.
Common Active Ingredients
- For Pre-Emergents: Look for ingredients like Prodiamine or Dithiopyr. These create a barrier in the soil.
- For Post-Emergents: Products often use 2,4-D, Dicamba, or MCPP. These chemicals attack the weed’s system, causing it to die.
Important Note on Formulation
You will find products in liquid or granular form. Granular products spread easily using a spreader. Liquid products mix with water and spray on. Choose the format that fits how you prefer to treat your lawn.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of the product matters greatly for long-term success.
Factors That Improve Quality
- Slow Release: Products that release ingredients slowly offer longer protection. This means fewer applications.
- Rainfastness: Good products stick to the weed or soil quickly after watering or rain. This prevents the chemical from washing away.
Factors That Reduce Quality
- Low Concentration: Cheap products sometimes have weak amounts of active ingredients. They do not kill tough Southern weeds effectively.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Some chemicals become less effective or even harmful to your grass if applied when temperatures are too high (above 90°F). Always follow the temperature guidelines.
User Experience and Use Cases
How easy the product is to use affects whether you will stick with a routine.
Ease of Application
Look for user-friendly packaging. Some containers have built-in spreaders or sprayers. This saves you time buying extra tools. Simple measuring instructions help prevent over- or under-application.
Use Cases for Southern Lawns
- Spring Preparation: Use a pre-emergent early, usually when soil temperatures reach 50-55°F, to stop crabgrass before it starts.
- Mid-Summer Spot Treatment: Keep a post-emergent liquid handy for quick touch-ups on stubborn weeds during the hot months.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Southern Weed Control
Q: When should I apply pre-emergent weed control in the South?
A: Apply pre-emergent early in the spring, usually before flowering trees bloom, to stop crabgrass seeds from sprouting.
Q: Can I use the same product for clover and crabgrass?
A: Maybe, but often you need a combination product or two separate applications. Clover is a broadleaf weed; crabgrass is a grassy weed.
Q: How long after applying weed killer can my dog go outside?
A: Check the label! Most products require pets and people to stay off the lawn until the treated area is completely dry. This is usually a few hours.
Q: What is the biggest mistake people make when using weed control?
A: The biggest mistake is applying pre-emergent too late. If you see the weeds, it is already too late for the pre-emergent to work.
Q: Do I need to water after applying granular weed control?
A: Yes. Watering lightly activates the chemicals in granular products so they can start working in the soil.
Q: Is it better to use liquid or granular weed killer?
A: Neither is strictly better. Granular spreads easily over large areas. Liquid often provides faster results on existing weeds.
Q: Will weed killer harm my St. Augustine grass?
A: Only if you use the wrong product. Always confirm the label says it is safe for St. Augustine, as this grass type is sensitive to some chemicals.
Q: How often should I treat my lawn for weeds in the summer?
A: For existing weeds (post-emergent), treat when you see them pop up. For prevention, reapply pre-emergent based on the product’s instructions, usually every 8 to 12 weeks.
Q: Can I fertilize and apply weed control at the same time?
A: Many combination products exist. If using separate products, check if the manufacturer allows simultaneous application. Sometimes, it is best to wait a week between treatments.
Q: Why are my weeds coming back after treatment?
A: Weeds may return because you treated during extreme heat, the product washed away, or the product only killed the top growth, not the roots.