After months of hard labor on the right seeding and fertilizer, you end up with your lawn just the way you want it.
But then weeds pop up and start taking over the show. No matter how much you try, they keep coming back more than ever.
Don’t worry, in this article I have reviewed the best weed killers to help you solve your weed problem.
Let’s dive in.
1. Ortho Weed B Gon
Pros
A ready-to-use solution
Easy to carry package
Low priced
Water-resistant for up to one hour
Works in hot climate
Safe to use on lawns
Works on broad-leaf plants too
Cons
Needs reapplication to handle deep-rooted crabgrass
Does not prevent new weeds
Does not work on all weed varieties
Does not work in damp weather
Not ideal for large lawns
Key Details
- Quantity: 1 Gallon
- How fast does it work: Results in hours
- How long does it prevent: 21 days
- Type of weeds Killed: Dandelion, Clover, Ground Ivy (Creeping Charlie), Plantains, Thistles, Wild Violet, Yellow Oxalis, Pennywort (Dollarweed), English Daisy, Wild Garlic, and others
- Safe for pets/kids: Yes, if used as directed on the label
How Does It Work
The spray consists of three powerful ingredients that particularly target weeds and crabgrass.
The spray works by entering the weeds via the leaves and affects the plant cells leading to the plant’s death.
Tip: The best way to get maximized results is to start working from the lawn’s borders and work backward.
What I Like
Selective Action
The herbicide eliminates soft grass, crabgrass, clovers, and dandelions, leaving your grass undamaged when used appropriately. It is entirely safe for use on lawns.
Coverage
The Ortho Weed B Gon Ready-To-Spray 2 is a highly effective herbicide. Just 32 oz. a bottle can cover up to 16,000 sq.ft of the area, and one gallon can provide coverage of about 64,000 sq.ft.
It is more than enough for small and medium-sized lawns. Besides, if you have a huge number of weeds, you might be required to apply the herbicide more generously.
Residual impact
The ready-to-use herbicide spray should not be applied to the soil directly. The ingredients can have an impact on fresh vegetation you can plant post-treatment.
Fast Acting
When you spray the Ortho Weed B Gon, you can see the weed wither within a few hours. You can see the complete results within a few days.
What I Dislike
Does not prevent crabgrass
The Ortho Weed B Gon only removes crabgrass but does not prevent the grass from growing back again. You might need a reapplication of the product once every three weeks.
Needs more time for rainproof effect
Yet another downside of this herbicide spray is that it takes at least six hours for the spray to get rainproof.
Most other weed killers in the market can get rainproof within an hour of application.
Not effective on all weed varieties
The Ortho Weed B Gon does not work on dollar weed and other strange varieties of weeds.
It also needs repeated applications to get rid of certain types of weeds.
2. Roundup Extended
Pros
Easy application
It eliminates weeds and prevents germination of new weeds
Achieves waterproof within ten minutes
Highly efficient formula
Ready to use mix and provided with a spray cap
The solution is long lasting
Cons
Not very effective against resistant weeds
Expensive
The sprayer does not work well
Key Details
- Quantity: 1.33 gallon
- How fast does it work: Visible results in 6 hours.
- How long does it prevent: Prevents for up to 4 months
- Type of weeds Killed: All weeds and grasses
- Safe for pets/kids: Yes, if followed by directions on the label.
How Does It Work
Glyphosate and Diquat, two essential ingredients in Roundup Extended, get into the weed leaves and pass to the roots, preventing enzymes’ production.
The weeds turn yellow and begin to wilt within 6 hours and are eliminated within one to two weeks.
Imazapic, yet another active ingredient present in the weed killer, prevents new weeds from growing for up to four months.
What I Like
Wide coverage
The Roundup Extended weed killer is a ready-to-use solution that can cover an area of about 400 sq.ft.
The coverage depends on the level of infestation. Heavy infestation might demand more products.
Does not affect the soil
The Roundup Extended weed killer affects only the weeds and does not affect the soil. This is a helpful feature that most other herbicides lack.
Efficient results
The solution causes an effect on the weeds in just about hours. And within two days, the entire weed colony is eliminated.
Besides, the solution gets rainproof within just 10 minutes of application. This is pretty quick when compared to most other weed killers, which take hours to get rainproof.
What I Dislike
Metal reactivity
The Roundup Extended weed killer should not be stored in stainless steel containers. The chemicals in the herbicide are supposed to have a reactive effect on the stainless steel.
The chemicals, along with the metal, can produce a highly combustible gas as a reaction. Hence, the solution should be ideally stored in plastic or fiberglass containers.
Toxic reaction
If touched or swallowed accidentally, the spray can cause serious side effects.
Indiscriminate action
The Roundup Extended weed killer reacts with all kinds of plants it comes in contact with. You should use it with caution and ensure the solution is not sprayed on desired plants and grass.
Does not work on all weed varieties
The herbicide does not work on all weed varieties. Some might develop resistance to the solution and can withstand the treatment.
Should not be used on water bodies
The Roundup Extended solution should not be applied directly to any water body. It can have a toxic effect on aquatic animals, including amphibians.
3. Round-Up Pro Concentrate Systemic Herbicide
Pros
A 2.5 gallon can provide coverage of about 4,35,600 sq.ft
It is a commercial standard solution
Very efficient
Ideal for broad area coverage
Top-rated product
Low volatile solution
Can be applied through all types of sprayers
Cons
Might take weeks to see significant results
It does not have a selective action
Too toxic – contains high Glyphosate concentration
Pricey
Contains bad odor
Key Details
- Quantity: 2.5 Gallon
- How fast does it work: RoundUp Pro Concentrate will take 2-3 days for results to be seen.
- How long does it prevent: No residual soil activity.
- Type of weeds Killed: Targets a variety of woody plants, grasses, and broadleaf weeds
- Safe for pets/kids: RoundUp Pro Concentrate is safe to use around children or pets when applied according to the product label.
How Does It Work
The Roundup Pro Concentrate contains ‘Glyphosate,’ which effectively kills a wide range of annual and perennial weeds.
The concentrate provides excellent coverage on the targeted weeds.
The weed killer enters the weeds through the leaves and stops the production of growth enzymes. The weeds ultimately begin to curl and die over time.
What I Like
Effective formulation
The Roundup Pro Concentrate contains 50.2% of “Glyphosate, “ which can successfully remove most weed varieties.
It also ensures the largest coverage and effective results in minimal time.
Cheap solution
The herbicide comes in a 2.5-gallon container that can cover roughly four acres of land area.
This makes the Roundup Pro Concentrate a cheaper solution compared to most other products available on the market. The effect can be seen for months.
Environmental safe
The solution is not dangerous to animals and birds if applied appropriately.
The contents bind tightly to the soil, hence the chemicals don’t mix with groundwater.
Works on a variety of weeds
The product works on a wide range of weeds and other invasive plants. This can be a one-stop solution for most of your weed infestations.
What I Dislike
Not selective in action
The Roundup Pro Concentrate does not have a selective action. It kills any vegetation it is sprayed upon. Hence it has to be applied with caution.
No instant result
The herbicide does not produce instant results. It takes approximately two weeks for the solution to act on the weeds.
If you’re looking for an instant solution for weeds, this might not be your best option.
Limited availability
The Roundup Pro Concentrate may not be available in certain places like California, Alaska, and Hawaii.
4. Crossbow Concentrate Brush and Weed Killer
Pros
Works perfectly on even hard to kill varieties like wisteria, blackberry, and bamboo shoots.
Reasonably priced
Even tough weed species don’t grow back post-treatment
The solution is less volatile
The effect can be seen in less than a week
Ideal for use for both spot treatment and large cover areas
Does not harm grass varieties
Becomes rain-resistant in about two hours
Easy to apply
Cons
Not safe to be used around edible crop varieties
Need a sprayer for application
Does not produce instant results
Has a strong chemical odor
You will need a protective gear during the application
You need to shake the solution while applying continually
Key Details
- Quantity: 1 Gallon
- How fast does it work: Visible results in as little as 2 to 3 days
- How long does it prevent: Does not have any residual effects.
- Type of weeds Killed: Low Volatile Weed and Brush
- Safe for pets/kids: No
How Does It Work
The Crossbow Concentrate is a weed killer consisting of 2,4-D and Triclopyr BEE combination, a proven powerful formulation.
The chemicals present in the product kill the weeds by causing uncontrolled growth.
What I Like
Potent ingredients
The Crossbow Concentrate has powerful ingredients that can work efficiently on all varieties of weed and other unwanted plants.
Quick results
Results can be seen within a week, and some plants start wilting overnight. The ingredients work till roots and ensure the weeds don’t come back for an extended period.
Easy to apply
The Crossbow Concentrate can be applied using external sprayers, containers, and even sprayers fitted to a tractor for wide area coverage.
What I Dislike
Not suitable for summer
The herbicide is not ideal for application during summer. Even at recommended dosages, it can burn your grass.
Not ready-to-use
The Crossbow Concentrate weed killer is a concentrate and needs to be mixed in the recommended ratio for application.
It is not a ready-to-use product, and it requires a sprayer for application.
Kills all plants
The product kills almost all plants that it comes in contact with. It has to be applied with caution and should not be used on edible plants.
Should not be used on water
The Crossbow Concentrate should not be applied directly to water. It can cause a potential hazard to aquatic plants and animals, including fish.
5. Compare-N-Save 016869 Concentrate Grass and Weed Killer
Pros
Reasonably priced
Value for money
Efficient results
One gallon can cover up to 25,000 feet
Can be used throughout the year
Can be easily mixed with water
Significant results within two to four days
It’s waterproof
Cons
Should avoid application on edible plants
It takes two hours to become waterproof
It’s non-selective in action
Highly toxic
Can be ineffective if applied in concentrated form
Dangerous for pets and humans
Key Details
- Quantity: 1 Gallon
- How fast does it work: Visible results in as little as 2 to 4 days
- How long does it prevent: Does not leave any residual effects.
- Type of weeds Killed: Glyphosate grass and weeds
- Safe for pets/kids: Not safe for pets/kids.
How Does It Work
The compare-N-Save concentrate consists of a powerful ingredient called ‘Glyphosate,’ which gets absorbed through the weeds’ leaves and travels to the root.
The chemical stops enzymes required for the weeds to grow, eventually leading to the plant’s death.
The product does not work selectively. The application of the product should be done cautiously. If accidentally sprayed on desired plants, wash the plant immediately.
What I Like
Potent ingredient
The Compare-N-Save concentrate consists of 41 % Glyphosate, which can effectively remove any variety of weed, and the results can be seen within two to four days.
Rainproof
The product can get rainproof within two hours of application. The ingredient will not be washed away and can stay effective even during rains.
Value for money
The Compare-N-Save concentrate is highly effective, and just three tablespoons of the concentrate mixed with one gallon of water can cover up to 300 sq.ft of land.
It is quite cheap when compared to most other ready-to-use solutions and is undoubtedly a cost-effective solution.
What I Dislike
Can kill other plants
The Compare-N-Save concentrate can kill almost any plant that it comes in contact with.
This makes the product unsuitable to be applied to vegetation and flower beds. If sprayed on any plant, wash it immediately with water.
Highly toxic
“Glyphosate’, the main ingredient of the herbicide, is highly toxic and can have severe effects if swallowed accidentally by pets or humans.
Not effective on all varieties
The Compare-N-Save concentrate is not effective on particular varieties of weeds like crabgrass and quackgrass. You will require multiple applications to see some results.
Algae/fungal formation
You will have to ensure you don’t leave any leftover solution in the sprayer. The product is prone to algae and fungal growth that can form slime and gum up your sprayer, making it unusable.
6. RM43 43-Percent Glyphosate Plus Weed Preventer
Pros
Suitable for spot treatment
Prevents regrowth for about a year
Convenient to apply
Suitable for all seasons
Effective over 150 varieties of weeds and brush
Significant results within a week
Environmental friendly
Waterproof in two hours
Cons
Non-selective action
Residual effects for about one year
Expensive
Not ideal for large lawns
Cannot see instant results
Key Details
- Quantity: 1 Gallon
- How fast does it work: Results in less than one week
- How long does it prevent: Kills weeds and prevents weeds for up to 1 year
- Type of weeds Killed: Can be used for total vegetation control (bare ground) or spot control of brush, vines, and weeds.
- Safe for pets/kids: Yes, if used as directed on the label.
How Does It Work
The RM43 concentrate consists of 43% of Glyphosate, a highly potent herbicide that can stop enzyme production in plants leading to death.
The RM43 concentrate can be useful when used appropriately. Below are points to keep in mind to get the desired results:
The herbicide can be applied on roadsides, sidewalks, driveways, non-crop areas, and vacant plots.
Keep the product away from pets and children. Do not apply the product to any water body.
What I Like
Effective results
The RM43 concentrate has the potent herbicide called ‘Glyphosate’ in high concentration (around 43%), which produces stunning results, primarily when used on vacant land.
It can even prevent unwanted vegetation for up to a year.
Easy to use
The herbicide comes with clear instructions and is pretty easy to use. The solution is highly effective and can be used even for spot treatment on vacant land.
Safe to use
The RM43 concentration is relatively safe if applied according to the instructions. All you have to do is take minimal safety precautions and not go overboard.
What I Dislike
Kills all vegetation
The RM43 concentrate should be used with caution. It can kill any plant it comes in contact with. It should not be applied near the roots of the desired plants.
Not effective
The herbicide is slow-acting, and it takes a few weeks to see results. In some cases, reapplication is required.
You cannot expect instant results.
7. Doctor Kirchner Natural Weed Killer
Pros
Made from natural ingredients
Fast-acting
Eliminates all troublesome weeds
Safe to use around kids or pets
Ready-to-use product
Good for commercial use
Long-lasting weed control
Safe for replanting
Cons
Not safe on plants
Leans on the pricier side
Requires a sprayer
Cannot kill large weeds
Doesn’t cover a large coverage area
Key Details
- Active Ingredients: Ocean salt water, commercial food grade vinegar, and soap
- Product weight: 320 fl. oz.
- How fast does it work: Most weeds will wither within hours, grassy weeds may take 12-24 hours
- How long does it last: Shelf life can last up to four years
- What types of weed does it kill: Green foxtail, dodder and ragweed
How Does It Work
The Doctor Kirchner Natural Weed Killer is a non-toxic, eco-friendly and ready-to-use solution that kills various common weed species from the roots.
To use the product, fill a spray bottle with the solution. Do not dilute.
Wear protective eyewear and gloves to avoid contact with the solution’s vapor upon application.
Once all necessary preparations are done, select an area where weeds have overpopulated and generously apply.
You should see changes within 30 minutes after spraying.
Some weeds may take 12 to 24 hours before withering.
What I Like
Safe to use around kids and pets
The product’s formulation doesn’t include any toxic chemicals. It utilizes natural ingredients for an eco-friendly killing solution, so you won’t have to worry about treating your yard’s weeds even with your children or pets around.
Does not contaminate the soil
Unlike other weed-killing solutions in the market, the Doctor Kirchner Natural Weed Killer does not leave any product residues, nor contaminates the soil. Additionally, treated areas quickly dry up because of the large amount of vinegar in the solution that evaporates relatively quickly, which allows for a safe replanting process after all the withered weeds have been taken out.
Long shelf life
No matter how much time has passed — either weeks, months, or years, the product’s efficacy doesn’t decrease, and its killing action remains the same — which is rather impressive if you ask me.
Non-selective killer
This weed killer was designed to be a non-selective solution, meaning that it will kill any plants or weeds that it comes in contact with, even the most persistent ones — such as chameleon plants, green foxtail, dodder, and ragweeds.
User-friendly
The solution is ready-to-use without any other additional steps, such as dilution. Simply put in a spray and directly apply to weeds. This is also a great option if you don’t want to use any harmful chemicals that may affect the soil.
What I Dislike
Expensive
Even though it is a great non-toxic method to kill weeds, the spray’s content and coverage only fall upon a small area. Other killing solutions in the market have the same effect and go for a lesser price.
8. Preen Extended Control Weed Preventer
Pros
Effects last for up to 6 months
Pre-emergent product solution
Company behind the product is proven to be reliable
Suitable for large yards
User-friendly
No harmful post-treatment effects
Refill can be purchased for the product
Will not harm any flowers, shrubs, and trees
Cons
May harm other plants if you aren’t cautious with application
Effectiveness decreases in water
Not that effective against specific weeds
Key Details
- Product Weight: Commonly 4.93 lb, varies upon size bought
- How fast does it work: Takes 2-3 hours to begin working.
- How long does it last: Up to 6 months upon application
- What types of weed does it kill: Annual bluegrass, cheatgrass, purslane, stinging nettle, dandelion, dog fennel, poison ivy, and prickly lettuce
How Does It Work
The Preen Extended Control Weed Preventer is a pre-emergent product that prevents weeds from germinating and sprouting.
To use the product, pull out all existing weeds in the area and apply the Preen Weed Preventer granules on top of the soil.
Thoroughly apply water on the soil’s surface to activate the granules.
This will cause it to slowly disintegrate and bind with the soil to create a protective layer against weed formation.
If there are no sources of water nearby, and hydrating the granules may take a while, rake the product into the soil.
What I Like
Optimizes slow-release technology
The Preen Preventer granules once applied and activated, utilizes its slow-releasing technology that can suppress and control weed germination through the aid of an invisible barrier that lasts for up to three months without the need to reapply frequently.
Works against harsh weather conditions
Due to its rainproof formula, the granules won’t dissolve, and its potency won’t be compromised even when exposed to extreme weather.
Useful on mulch beds
If the label does so allow, you can mix the weed preventer with the soil when seeding plants.
What I Dislike
Gradual decrease in efficacy
Although the Weed Preventer’s potency won’t be affected despite its exposure to harsh weather, it may gradually lose its effectiveness if exposed to such conditions for an extended period.
Occurrence of plant injury
If you aren’t cautious enough when using the product, you may accidentally harm the plants around you and unintentionally cause it to die.
9. Quali-Pro Prodiamine Pre-Emergent Herbicide
Pros
Highly-rated and commercial-grade herbicide
Works against extensive weed species
Pre-emergent product
Safe to use around pets or humans
Easy to use
Cons
Correct product proportion can be challenging to figure out for smaller areas
Has staining agents
May clog up your equipment
Expensive
Does not provide proper instructional guide
Requires the use of a spray tank
Key Details
- Active Ingredient: Prodiamine – 65%
- How fast does it work: Within 14 days
- How long does it last: Up to 60-90 days upon application
- What types of weed does it kill: A variety of weed species that includes but are not limited to bluegrass, barnyardgrass, carpetweed, chicken weed, crabgrass, crowfootgrass, cup grass, foxtails, goosegrass, henbit, itchgrass, and junglerice
How Does It Work
The Quali-Pro Prodiamine Herbicide/ Prodiamine 65 WDG (wettable dispersible granule) is a pre-emergent herbicide designed to prevent the growth of weeds and wild grass. It can be used in turf-grasses, lawns, sod nurseries, landscape ornamentals, perennials, wildflowers, and Christmas tree farms.
Do not use the product on golf courses, fertilizers, near livestock areas and plants meant for consumption.
What I Like
The solution stays in the weed germination zone
Due to the solution’s low solubility and volatility level, the residue stays in the soil’s germination zone, which suppresses the growth of weeds and prevents it from sprouting.
Adequate weed control after one application
The Quali-Pro Granule is a commercial-grade herbicide that effectively kills any weed formation and lasts long before the next regrowth.
What I Dislike
Does not live up to its promises
Despite using the product often and following the directions stated in the product label, the weeds still haven’t died, and the whole yard was overtaken by crabgrass.
10. Red Dragon VT 2-23 C Weed Dragon 100,000-BTU Propane Vapor Torch Kit
Pros
Easy to use
Made from quality materials
Easily links to a propane tank
Can generate thermal heat of up to 100,000 BTU or 2000°F
Has a pressure regulator
Cons
Torch’s wand is too short
Does not have a switch button
Uses propane quickly
Key Details
- Materials: Plastic
- Dimensions: 31 x 8 x 9 in
- Weight: 9.12lb
- Spray proof: Yes
- Reusable: Yes
How Does It Work
The Red Dragon VT 2-23 C Propane Vapor Torch Kit is a non-chemical weed-killing tool that uses fire to prevent weed growth.
This is an easy and fast option for those who do not want to use harmful chemicals to eliminate weeds.
Before using the Torch Kit, check all gas connections for any signs of leakages.
Stay away from all areas with highly combustible items or fluids.
What I Like
Worth the price
To eliminate the weed growth in your yard, you’ll only be required to use a small flame. Watch the weeds turn into a slightly darker color to destroy the cell structure. Within hours, the weeds will burn out by themselves without you wasting too much effort.
Vaporizes weeds completely
Using chemical solutions takes up too much time and requires massive effort to remove all the weeds by yourself. With the Red Dragon Torch Kit, you’ll be able to vaporize weeds in no time and is said to be a fun activity.
What I Dislike
Weeds regrow easily
If you don’t know how to use the Torch Kit effectively, weed regrowth is likely because the root hasn’t died yet.
You’ve only burned the surface and the germination process can still occur.
It takes time and practice to get the hang of it.
Conclusion
Weeds are tough to get rid of, and with loads of weed killers in the market, selecting the right one can be confusing.
I have listed out the best options available, and all you have to do is list out your needs and requirements and then select the right product.
Pet and children safe herbicide is yet another point that needs to be considered while making the selection.
I hope the article helps you to make the ideal choice.