5 Qualities to Look For in an Efficient Weed Killer for Lawns
A perfectly manicured, lush green lawn free of weeds is a sight to behold. However, weeds can creep in undetected and quickly take over, wrecking the aesthetic of a well-kept yard. Before you know it, your grassy turf turns into an eyesore of sprouting dandelions, creeping charlie and other botanic invaders.
Finding the right weed killer specially formulated for lawns is key to keeping your lawn in tip-top shape and weed-free. If you’re out researching weed killers for your turf, watch out for these five important qualities to find the best product for maintaining a pristine lawn.
1. Specific Weed Targeting
An efficient weed killer will be specially formulated to eliminate certain weeds. Before purchasing a weed killer, identify the specific weeds taking over your lawn, such as dandelions, crabgrass or clover. Then, find a product designed to specifically target those stubborn weeds.
Using a weed killer with your particular weed problem in mind, rather than a generic product, will provide faster and longer-lasting results.
2. Selective Herbicides
An ideal weed killer for lawns will be selective, meaning it targets weeds but won’t harm surrounding grass. Non-selective herbicides have the potential to kill all vegetation, including lawn grasses defeating the purpose of application in the first place.
Look for a selective herbicide labeled safe for use on your specific grass type. This ensures your lawn stays lush and healthy while weeds like dollarweed and nutsedge are eliminated. Selective herbicides with active ingredients like MCPA and quinclorac are ideal for lawn weed control.
3. Extended Residual Action
The best weed killer for lawns doesn’t just kill weeds on contact, but also prevents new weeds from sprouting for weeks or months after application. Seek out weed killers with extended residual action to stop weeds before they even emerge from the soil.
This provides long-term weed prevention and control with fewer applications required. Long-lasting residual herbicides like prodiamine and dithiopyr prevent germination and root growth of young weed seedlings for months.
4. Added Fertilizers and Soil Amendments
Boost your lawn’s health as you kill weeds by using weed killers containing added nutrients and soil enhancers. Some weed and feed products incorporate balanced fertilizers to strengthen grass as weeds perish.
Weed killers with iron promote deep green color, while those with humates and seaweed extracts improve moisture retention and stimulate soil microbiology. The right amendments encourage lush turf grass growth to crowd out any remaining weeds.
5. Application Method
Weed killers for lawns come in different application forms, including ready-to-use liquids, powders and granules. Consider which application method will be easiest based on the size of your lawn and location of the weeds.
Spot treatment using a liquid works well for scattered weeds. Granules may be preferred for large lawns with an extensive weed problem. Choose the application method you’re most comfortable with to ensure proper application.
5 Qualities To Look For In Efficient Weed Killer for Lawns – In Summary
Gaining control over lawn weeds takes finding the right weed killer for the job. One that specifically targets your weeds, is safe for grass, offers long-lasting results and is easy to apply. Keep these top 5 qualities in mind, and you’ll be able to choose the most efficient weed killer for your lawn. With a product tailored to your weed problem, you’ll be back to enjoying a lush green lawn in no time.
