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Best Pre Emergent Weed Killer For Lawns (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to keep your lawn free from weeds, then you might want to consider using a pre emergent weed killer. However, before you make your purchase, there are a few important factors that you should consider.

One important factor to consider is the type of weeds that are most prevalent in your lawn. Different pre emergent weed killers are designed to target different types of weeds, so it’s important to choose a product that will effectively kill off the weeds that are currently growing in your lawn.

Another factor to consider is the size of your lawn. If you have a large lawn, then you’ll need a product that is designed to cover a wide area. On the other hand, if you have a small lawn, then you might be able to get away with using a product that is designed for smaller areas.

If you’re still not sure which pre emergent weed killer is right for your lawn, then ask yourself the following questions: Do you want a product that is safe for pets and children? How much time are you willing to spend applying the product? Do you want a product that provides long-term results, or are you just looking for a quick fix?

By answering these questions, you can help narrow down your options and choose a pre emergent weed killer that will keep your lawn looking healthy and beautiful.

10 Best Pre Emergent Weed Killer For Lawns

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for preventing crabgrass, chickweed and other grassy weed growth in lawns up to 10,000 square feet.
2
The product is ideal for pre-emergent weed control, providing coverage for up to 12,880 square feet.
3
It is an effective pre and post-emergent weed killer for lawn and turf grasses.
4
Professional pre and post-emergent weed killer for lawn and turf grasses.
5
The product is ideal for preventing weeds in gardens and lawns.
6
This product is ideal for preventing the growth of crabgrass and weeds in lawns and ornamental garden beds.
7
Ideal for evenly spreading fertilizer, grass seed, and other lawn care products on small to medium-sized lawns with ease.
8
The product is ideal for spreading fertilizer or seed in small to medium-sized areas by hand with comfort and precision.
9
It is ideal for creating precise layout marks on metal surfaces before machining or drilling.
10
The product is ideal for marking outdoor areas or identifying hazards with high visibility fluorescent red-orange paint.
Ideal for preventing crabgrass, chickweed and other grassy weed growth in lawns up to 10,000 square feet.
The product is ideal for pre-emergent weed control, providing coverage for up to 12,880 square feet.
It is an effective pre and post-emergent weed killer for lawn and turf grasses.
Professional pre and post-emergent weed killer for lawn and turf grasses.
The product is ideal for preventing weeds in gardens and lawns.
This product is ideal for preventing the growth of crabgrass and weeds in lawns and ornamental garden beds.
Ideal for evenly spreading fertilizer, grass seed, and other lawn care products on small to medium-sized lawns with ease.
The product is ideal for spreading fertilizer or seed in small to medium-sized areas by hand with comfort and precision.
It is ideal for creating precise layout marks on metal surfaces before machining or drilling.
The product is ideal for marking outdoor areas or identifying hazards with high visibility fluorescent red-orange paint.

1. Scotts Crabgrass & Weed Preventer – 10,000 Sq. Ft.

This powerful crabgrass preventer is perfect for keeping your lawn free of crabgrass and other weeds all season long. It's easy to apply, and works quickly to prevent crabgrass and other weeds from taking root in your lawn. Simply apply it in the spring for all-season protection against crabgrass and other problem weeds.

In addition, this powerful product is also effective against winter weeds like poa annua, henbit, and chickweed. Just apply it in the fall to prevent these annoying weeds from taking over your lawn. And don't worry about rain, snow, or freezing weather – this product is designed to perform well in any conditions.

So if you want a beautiful, healthy lawn all year round, this crabgrass preventer is the perfect solution. It's easy to use, effective, and reliable – everything you need to keep your lawn looking great.

Pros

  • Effective against crabgrass and other problem weeds
  • Works all season long for hassle-free lawn maintenance
  • Designed to perform well in any weather conditions

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for all types of lawns
  • – May require multiple applications for best results

2. Pro-Grade Barricade: Weed Control For Pros

Barricade professional-grade pre-emergent weed control is a highly effective solution to prevent more than 30 types of grass and broadleaf weeds. The product contains 0.48% of the active ingredient prodiamine, making it a potent solution to safeguard your garden against weed growth. However, it is important to note that this product should only be applied during EARLY SPRING and FALL. The product is not designed to eliminate existing weeds in your garden.

The product is trusted by top turf care professionals to prevent problem weeds without harming desirable plants. The DG Pro formulation of the product allows for more particles per square inch of the chemical, which leads to better weed control. This means that you can expect to see fewer weeds in your garden when you use Barricade professional-grade pre-emergent weed control.

Overall, if you want to keep your garden free of weeds, Barricade professional-grade pre-emergent weed control is a highly recommended product to use. It is easy to apply and works effectively to prevent weed growth. However, make sure to apply it only in EARLY SPRING and FALL as instructed on the label.

Pros

  • Highly effective in preventing over 30 types of grass and broadleaf weeds
  • Trusted by top turf care professionals
  • DG Pro formulation leads to better weed control
  • Easy to apply

Cons

  • – Not designed to eliminate existing weeds
  • – Can only be applied during EARLY SPRING and FALL

3. Pro Concentrate Weed Killer For Lawngrass

Liquid Harvest Mesotrione is a highly effective herbicide that can help you get rid of 46 broadleaf species of weeds and grass. It is a unique weed killer that prevents photosynthesis in plants by targeting their shoots, roots and leaves. The herbicide is absorbed quickly and starts working immediately upon application. However, it may take up to 2-3 weeks before the full death of weeds occurs.

To activate Mesotrione, it must be watered within 10 days of application if rainfall is absent. The recommended amount of water is 0.15 inches. This herbicide is safe for use in Kentucky Bluegrass, Centipede grass, Buffalo grass, Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Fine Fescue, and St. Augustine Grass (grown for sod only). However, it should not be applied to Bentgrass, Poa annua, kikuyugrass, zoysiagrass, seashore paspalum, or bermudagrass. Liquid Harvest Mesotrione can only be used on dormant bermudagrass to remove weeds or target grasses from it. If the bermuda is semi-dormant, it may result in whitening and damage to the bermuda.

Liquid Harvest Mesotrione can be mixed with 30 gallons of water per acre, using 4-8 ounces of the herbicide. The use of a surfactant can help increase its effectiveness. Always read the label instructions carefully before using the herbicide.

One of the benefits of Liquid Harvest Mesotrione is that it prevents crabgrass seed germination while killing broadleaf weeds (dandelion and clover among others) on contact. It allows certain cool-season turfgrass to grow in a weed-free environment. With its 40% active ingredient that inhibits photosynthesis in susceptible plant species, this herbicide is a very useful tool to maintain a weed-free lawn.

Pros

  • Effective in targeting 46 broadleaf species of weeds and grass
  • Prevents crabgrass seed germination
  • Kills broadleaf weeds on contact
  • Allows certain cool-season turfgrass to grow in a weed-free environment
  • 40% active ingredient that inhibits photosynthesis in susceptible plant species

Cons

  • – May take up to 2-3 weeks for full death of weeds to occur
  • – Not suitable for use in Bentgrass, Poa annua, kikuyugrass, zoysiagrass, seashore paspalum, or bermudagrass (unless dormant)
  • – May result in damage to bermudagrass if not used on dormant bermuda

4. Weed Be Gone Pro Concentrate.

Looking for a highly effective herbicide? Look no further than Liquid Harvest Mesotrione! This powerful product is designed to prevent the germination of crabgrass seeds and kill broadleaf weeds on contact. It works by inhibiting photosynthesis in susceptible plant species, with a 40% active ingredient that is distributed throughout the plant after being absorbed by roots, shoots, and leaves.

Liquid Harvest Mesotrione is a versatile herbicide that targets 46 broadleaf species of weed and grass, including Barnyard grass, Carpetweed, Chickweed, Clover, Crabgrass, Dandelion, Foxtail, Goosegrass, Henbit, Yellow Nutsedge, Purslane, Thistle, Wild Carrot, and more. It is safe for use on Kentucky Bluegrass, Centipede grass, Buffalo grass, Tall Fescue, Perennial Ryegrass, Fine Fescue, and St. Augustine Grass (grown for sod only). However, it should not be applied on Bentgrass, Poa annua, kikuyugrass, zoysiagrass, seashore paspalum, or bermudagrass, except for dormant bermudagrass.

To use Liquid Harvest Mesotrione, simply mix 4-8 oz. with 30 gallons of water per acre and apply with a surfactant for maximum effectiveness. Be sure to read the label for full instructions. Keep in mind that Mesotrione is not your typical weed killer. While it will absorb and start working immediately, it can take up to 2-3 weeks before full death occurs on your weeds. In addition, Mesotrione must be activated by water. If rainfall hasn't occurred within 10 days of application, water the area with 0.15 inches of water.

Pros

  • Prevents crabgrass seed germination
  • Kills broadleaf weeds on contact
  • Allows cool season turfgrass to grow in a weed-free environment
  • Targets 46 broadleaf species of weed and grass
  • Safe for use on various grass types

Cons

  • – May take 2-3 weeks before full death occurs on weeds
  • – Requires activation by water

5. Espoma Organic Weed Preventer-25 Lb. Cgp25, 25 Lb

Espoma Organic Weed Preventer is a must-have for every lawn enthusiast. This organic weed preventer is made from corn gluten meal, which means it is free from toxic chemicals that can harm the environment. Its unique formulation feeds lawns to ensure a deep, green color and prevents weeds by inhibiting root development in seedlings. It is perfect for those who want to maintain a healthy lawn without the use of harsh chemicals.

This granulated weed preventer is easy to apply and provides long-lasting nitrogen for a thicker, greener lawn. It is recommended to apply Espoma Organic Weed Preventer twice per year, early spring and fall. Children and pets can safely play on the lawn after application, as it does not contain any harmful chemicals. With Espoma Organic Weed Preventer, you can have a lush, green lawn that is safe for your family and the environment.

Pros

  • Made from corn gluten meal, which is free from toxic chemicals
  • Feeds lawns to ensure a deep, green color
  • Prevents weeds by inhibiting root development in seedlings
  • Granulated for easy application
  • Provides long-lasting nitrogen for a thicker, greener lawn
  • Safe for children and pets to play on lawn after application

6. Dura Turf Crabgrass Control: Prevent Weeds!

Say goodbye to weeds and crabgrass with Bonide Weed Preventer. This preemergent weed control product is perfect for lawns and gardens in the spring, as it provides season-long protection against unwanted plants. This ready-to-use product is incredibly easy to apply and can be used up to four weeks later than other crabgrass preventers. With up to four months of crabgrass control, you'll have a beautiful lawn all season long. This bag can cover up to 5,000 square feet of turfgrass, including both cool-season and warm-season varieties. The granular product should be applied to the ground as directed by the label. Bonide Weed Preventer can help clear out, control, or suppress over twenty different weeds, including foxtail, chickweed, annual bluegrass, barnyard grass, goosegrass, spurge, and more. It's perfect for use on lawns or ornamentals as directed on the bag. Just be sure not to apply it to fruit or vegetable plants, and keep people and pets out of the treated area until the dust has settled.

Bonide Weed Preventer is a highly effective preemergent weed control product that can keep your lawn looking great all season long. With its easy-to-use formula, you can apply it quickly and get back to enjoying your yard in no time. This product covers up to 5,000 square feet, making it perfect for both small and large lawns. Its ability to control over twenty different weeds, including crabgrass, makes it a versatile solution for any garden. Plus, it doesn't contain fertilizer, so you can use it on lawns or gardens without worrying about harming your plants.

If you're tired of spending hours pulling weeds and crabgrass from your lawn, then Bonide Weed Preventer is the solution you've been looking for. This product is easy to use, incredibly effective, and can provide season-long protection against unwanted plants. With its ability to cover up to 5,000 square feet, you can rest assured that your lawn will look great all season long. So why wait? Try Bonide Weed Preventer today and see the difference it can make in your garden!

Pros

  • Provides season-long protection against weeds and crabgrass
  • Easy to use and apply
  • Can be used up to four weeks later than other crabgrass preventers
  • Covers up to 5,000 square feet
  • Can control over twenty different weeds, including foxtail, chickweed, annual bluegrass, barnyard grass, goosegrass, spurge, and more
  • Perfect for use on lawns or ornamentals

Cons

  • – Not for use on fruit or vegetable plants
  • – People and pets should not enter the treated area until the dust has settled

7. Scotts Snap System – Spreader

The Scotts exclusive EdgeGuard and HandyLock Technologies make lawn care a breeze. With a fold-down handle, storage is easier than ever before. This spreader is designed for use only with Scotts Snap Pac, which allows for easy, mess-free application. Snap. Lock. Go. – it's that simple.

The EdgeGuard Technology keeps product where it belongs, on the lawn, and away from landscaping and sidewalks. The HandyLock Technology keeps the handle securely in place during use. When you're done spreading, the fold-down handle makes for compact storage.

By using this spreader with Scotts Snap Pac, you'll take the mess and guesswork out of lawn care. No more measuring or pouring. With the Snap Pac system, the product is already pre-measured and ready to use.

Pros

  • Exclusive EdgeGuard Technology keeps product on the lawn and away from landscaping and sidewalks.
  • HandyLock Technology keeps the handle securely in place during use.
  • Fold-down handle makes for compact storage.
  • Snap Pac system allows for mess-free and pre-measured application.

8. Ergospreader – Red Handheld Precision Seeder

EarthWay 16014 is a compact and lightweight spreader that can hold up to 4 pounds of seed or fertilizer. Its small size makes it ideal for small tasks and areas that are hard to reach. With its ergonomic armrest, users can easily pull it down for support and push it back up when they’re done. It’s perfect for spot seeding and fertilizing.

This spreader is made of durable poly material that is rustproof, ensuring years of service. It comes fully assembled, which means no need to worry about assembling small parts, making it worksite ready right out of the box. Whether you're spreading winter products or other types of seeds and fertilizer, this unit can handle it all.

When you purchase an EarthWay spreader, you get a 1-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support. So, you can have peace of mind, knowing that you're covered in case of any issues with the product.

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Ergonomic armrest for added support
  • Rustproof poly material for long-lasting durability
  • Fully assembled and worksite ready
  • 1-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support

9. Dykem 04005 Blue Layout Fluid – 8 Oz Brush-In-Cap Bottle – 80400 [Price Is Per Each]

The 8 oz. coating spray is a versatile product that can be used to coat metal for a uniform color that does not glare. It is ideal for scribes as it makes them appear clear and sharp. This product can also be used on other surfaces to reveal defects or pinholes, or view gear tooth contact pattern. The coating provides a thin film without cracking or chipping, and dries in minutes for convenience. One of its unique features is its brush built on the cap, so there is no need to ever look for a brush.

The coating spray is easy to use and provides a smooth finish with a uniform color. It dries quickly, which makes it convenient to use. The built-in brush on the cap ensures that the user does not have to look for a brush. The product is versatile and can be used on different surfaces to reveal defects or pinholes. Its thin film does not crack or chip, making it a durable option to coat metal.

This 8 oz. coating spray is an ideal solution to coat metal for a uniform color that does not glare. It dries quickly and provides a thin film without cracking or chipping. The built-in brush on the cap makes it convenient to use, and it can also be used on other surfaces to reveal defects or pinholes. This product is an excellent choice for those looking for a durable and versatile coating spray.

Pros

  • Dries in minutes for convenience
  • Provides a thin film without cracking or chipping
  • Brush built on the cap makes it easy to use
  • Versatile product that can be used on different surfaces

10. Pro Inverted Marking Spray-Paint, Fluo-Red-Orange, 15oz.

The Rust-Oleum Professional Inverted Marking Spray Paint is a versatile product that is ideal for temporary marking of underground utilities, construction and excavation sites, traffic safety, athletic fields, and more. It offers excellent adhesion to surfaces such as blacktop, concrete, grass, and gravel, and can withstand short-term weathering. The paint is designed to spray upside-down, making it easy to apply and control. For best results, it is recommended to use it with Rust-Oleum Professional Marking Wand.

This marking spray paint dries to the touch in just 15 minutes and can cover up to 810 linear feet at 1.5 inches wide. Moreover, it provides a flat to semi-gloss finish depending on the porosity of the surface. With its quick-drying formula and superior adhesion, the Rust-Oleum Professional Inverted Marking Spray Paint is an excellent choice for all your temporary marking needs.

Pros

  • Provides excellent adhesion to surfaces like blacktop, concrete, grass, and gravel
  • Can withstand short-term weathering
  • Dries to the touch in just 15 minutes
  • Covers up to 810 linear feet at 1.5 inches wide
  • Offers a flat to semi-gloss finish depending on the porosity of the surface
  • Easy to apply and control with the Rust-Oleum Professional Marking Wand

Best Pre Emergent Weed Killer For Lawns FAQs

Are there any environmental concerns with using pre emergent weed killer on a lawn?

Yes, there are some environmental concerns associated with using pre-emergent weed killers on a lawn. These herbicides work by preventing weed seeds from germinating, but they can also harm beneficial plants and organisms in the soil. The chemicals in the herbicides can also leach into nearby water sources or be carried away by rain, potentially contaminating groundwater or surface water.

Additionally, some pre-emergent weed killers contain toxic chemicals that can harm wildlife or pets that come into contact with them. It's important to follow the instructions carefully when using these products and to avoid applying them during windy conditions or before rainfall.

To minimize the environmental impact of pre-emergent weed killers, it's a good idea to consider alternative methods of weed control, such as hand weeding, lawn aeration, or using organic herbicides. These methods may require more effort or time, but they can be safer and more sustainable in the long run.

How does pre emergent weed killer work to prevent weeds in a lawn?

Pre-emergent weed killer is a type of herbicide that works by preventing weed seeds from germinating, meaning they never have a chance to grow and spread in a lawn. When applied correctly, pre-emergent weed killers create a barrier in the soil that prevents the seeds from sprouting, thus stopping the growth of weeds before they even begin.

The active ingredient in pre-emergent weed killers is typically a chemical compound called dithiopyr or prodiamine. These compounds work by inhibiting the production of an enzyme that is necessary for seed germination. By preventing this process, the weed seeds are unable to grow and establish a foothold in the lawn.

It is important to note that pre-emergent weed killers are only effective when applied before the weeds have a chance to germinate. This means that they should be applied early in the growing season, before the soil temperature reaches a level that is conducive to weed growth.

Overall, pre-emergent weed killers are an effective tool for preventing weeds in a lawn, but they must be used correctly and at the right time for best results.

How often should pre emergent weed killer be applied to maintain a weed-free lawn?

Pre-emergent weed killer is a great way to maintain a weed-free lawn. However, the frequency of application depends on several factors such as the type of weed, the soil type, and the climate. For most weed killers, it is recommended to apply them twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. This is because most weeds germinate in the spring and fall seasons. However, if you have a particularly weedy lawn, you may need to apply it more often. On the other hand, if you have a well-maintained lawn with minimal weed growth, you may only need to apply it once a year. It is important to follow the instructions on the label and not overapply the weed killer, as this can harm your lawn and the environment. Regular maintenance practices, such as mowing and watering, can also help prevent weed growth and reduce the need for weed killer applications.

What is the best pre emergent weed killer for lawns?

There are many pre-emergent weed killers available in the market, but the best one for your lawn depends on a variety of factors like the type of grass, soil conditions, and the types of weeds you are trying to control. However, some of the most effective pre-emergent weed killers for lawns include Prodiamine, Dithiopyr, Pendimethalin, and Isoxaben.

Prodiamine is ideal for warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia, while Dithiopyr is perfect for cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass and Fescue. Pendimethalin is effective against annual grasses and broadleaf weeds, and Isoxaben is ideal for controlling broadleaf weeds.

It's always advisable to read the label and follow the instructions carefully before using any pre-emergent weed killer. Also, consider consulting a lawn care professional to determine the best pre-emergent weed killer for your lawn, as they can evaluate your lawn's specific needs and recommend the most appropriate product.

When is the best time to apply pre emergent weed killer to a lawn?

The best time to apply pre emergent weed killer to a lawn depends on the type of weed you are targeting. Generally, it is best to apply before the weeds have a chance to germinate. This means applying in early spring or late fall, before the soil temperature reaches 55 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the optimal temperature for weed seed germination.

For warm-season weeds like crabgrass, it is best to apply pre emergent weed killer in early spring, before the soil temperature reaches 55 degrees Fahrenheit. For cool-season weeds like annual bluegrass, it is best to apply in late summer or early fall, when the soil temperature begins to cool down.

It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and apply the product evenly to the lawn. Additionally, it is important to water the lawn after application to activate the pre emergent weed killer and ensure it reaches the weed seeds in the soil.

Overall, timing is crucial when it comes to applying pre emergent weed killer to a lawn. Applying at the right time can prevent weeds from germinating and taking over your lawn, leading to a healthier and more beautiful lawn.

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