Does your beautiful green lawn look more like a patchy, dandelion-filled battlefield? You spend hours mowing and watering, only to see those unwanted invaders pop right back up. It’s frustrating! Many homeowners face the same struggle when buying lawn weed killer concentrate. You see big bottles with fancy labels, but which one actually works best for your yard and won’t harm your grass? Choosing the right concentrate can feel like a guessing game, wasting your time and money.
Don’t let stubborn weeds win another season. This guide cuts through the confusion. We will clearly explain what makes a good weed killer concentrate, how to mix it correctly, and what ingredients you should look for. By the end of this post, you will feel confident picking the perfect product to reclaim your perfect turf. Let’s dive in and learn how to mix up success for your lawn!
Top Lawn Weed Killer Concentrate Recommendations
- KILLS WEEDS, NOT THE LAWN: Won’t harm lawns when used as directed – kills more than 200 types of weeds as listed
- CONTROLS ALL MAJOR BROADLEAF WEEDS: Controls dandelion, chickweed and clover (see product label for complete list)
- KILLS THE ROOT: See overnight results
- RAINPROOF: Rainfall or watering 6 hours after application will not wash away effectiveness
- COVERAGE: 40 ounce bottle treats up to 20,000 square feet
- Kill crabgrass, dandelion, clover, and other listed common weeds in your lawn with Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Concentrate
- This fast-acting weed control kills listed weeds to the root and gets results with 1 application
- Use this lawn weed killer on grasses including Bermudagrass, Buffalograss, Fescues, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass
- Dilute this weed killer concentrate per label directions and apply using an Ortho Dial N Spray or tank sprayer
- This 32 fl. oz. container of Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Concentrate treats up to 5,000 sq. ft.
- KILLS THE WEEDS, NOT THE LAWN: Won’t harm lawns when used as directed – see results in hours.
- KILLS ALL MAJOR BROADLEAF WEEDS: Kills dandelion, chickweed and clover (see product label for complete list).
- KILLS WEED ROOT: Kills more than 200 types of weeds as listed.
- RAINPROOF IN HOURS: Rainfall or watering 6 hours after application will not wash away effectiveness.
- COVERAGE: 1 gallon bottle treats up to 32,000 square feet of Northern Grasses or 42,500 square feet of Southern grasses.
- 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…
- ALL-IN-ONE FORMULA: BioAdvanced's All-in-One formula kills listed lawn weeds and crabgrass without harming the lawn
- KILLS TOUGH WEEDS: Control over 200 broadleaf weeds like dandelion, clover, and crabgrass using our powerful weed killer concentrate
- DOWN TO THE ROOT: BioAdvanced All-In-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer I penetrates and removes tough listed weeds down to the root
- RAINPROOF IN ONE HOUR: Our weed killer concentrate formula is rainproof in one hour, providing protection that wont wash away
- EASY-TO-USE CONCENTRATE: Easily apply with our concentrated formula, perfect for targeting weeds in your lawn, and compatible with various grass types
- Use Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns Concentrate to kill over 250 listed weeds including dandelion and clover down to the root, without harming your lawn (when used as directed)
- This weed control product is rainproof in 1 hour and produces results in just 1 application
- Use to kill weeds in turfgrasses including St. Augustinegrass (not Floratam), Bermudagrass, Centipedegrass, Zoysiagrass, Buffalograss, and Bahiagrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, Tall Fescue, and Fine Fescue
- Apply this lawn weed killer concentrate using a tank sprayer or Ortho Dial N Spray hose-end sprayer to small, actively growing weeds when daytime temperatures are below 90°F
- This 1 gal. container of Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns Concentrate treats up to 64,000 sq. ft.
- KILLS WEEDS, NOT THE LAWN: Controls listed weeds – including crabgrass – not the lawn (when used as directed).
- KILLS CRABGRASS: Apply the first time you see crabgrass in your lawn.
- KILLS 470+ TYPES OF WEEDS: Controls all types of listed broadleaf and grassy weeds, including crabgrass, dandelion, chickweed, clover and yellow nutsedge (see product label for complete list).
- RAINPROOF: Rainfall or watering 3 hours after application will not wash away effectiveness.
- COVERAGE: 32 ounce bottle treats up to 5,000 square feet.
- 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 Concentrate2
- 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
- Broadcast treatment for weeds: Won't harm grass when used as directed - use on Bahiagrass, Bentgrass, Bermudagrass (hybrid and common), Buffalograss, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, Zoysiagrass, and St. Augustinegrass (except Floratam)
- Weed killer concentrate: Apply using a tank sprayer or Ortho Dial N Spray hose-end sprayer to small, actively growing weeds when daytime temperatures are below 90°F
- Coverage: This 32 fl. oz. container of Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer Concentrate2 treats up to 10,600 sq. ft. (varies by grass type, see label for application rates)
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Lawn Weed Killer Concentrate
Tired of pesky weeds taking over your beautiful lawn? Choosing the right lawn weed killer concentrate can make a huge difference. Concentrates save you money and let you control exactly how much you use. This guide helps you pick the perfect product for a greener yard.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for a concentrate, look closely at what the label promises. These features tell you how well the product will work for your needs.
1. Weed Killing Spectrum (Selective vs. Non-Selective)
- Selective Killers: These are the best choice for lawns. They target specific types of weeds (like dandelions or clover) but leave your desirable grass unharmed.
- Non-Selective Killers: These kill everything they touch, including your grass. Use these only on driveways, patios, or areas where you want zero plant life.
2. Speed of Action
Some concentrates work quickly, showing results in just a few hours. Others take several days. Decide if fast results are important to you.
3. Residual Activity (How Long It Lasts)
Some formulas keep working in the soil after application, preventing new weeds from sprouting for weeks. This is called residual control. Others only kill existing plants.
4. Rain-Fastness
Check how soon after spraying the product needs to dry before rain hits. If rain comes too soon, it washes the chemical away, wasting your effort.
Important Materials and Ingredients
The active ingredients determine how the weed killer functions. You usually mix the concentrate with water before spraying.
Common Active Ingredients
- 2,4-D, Dicamba, MCPP: These are common ingredients in selective, broadleaf weed killers. They mimic plant growth hormones, causing the weeds to grow themselves to death.
- Glyphosate: This is a very common non-selective killer. It gets absorbed by the leaves and moves throughout the entire plant.
Safety Notes
Always read the safety warnings. Concentrates are strong, so you must follow mixing instructions exactly. Good quality products clearly list all ingredients.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your weed killer depends on its formulation and how you use it.
Quality Boosters
- Surfactants Included: Some high-quality concentrates include a surfactant. This helps the liquid stick to the waxy leaves of the weeds better, increasing effectiveness.
- Concentration Ratio: A higher concentration means you get more uses out of one bottle, which is usually better value.
Quality Reducers
- Improper Mixing: If you do not mix the concentrate with the correct amount of water, the product will either not work well (too weak) or might damage your grass (too strong).
- Old or Stored Product: Chemicals can lose effectiveness over time. Buy from reputable sellers and check the expiration date.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the product affects your choice.
Application Method
Because you are buying a concentrate, you need a reliable sprayer. You will mix the solution in a pump sprayer or a backpack sprayer. Good concentrates mix easily with water without clogging the sprayer nozzle.
Lawn Type
Consider your grass type. Some strong weed killers can stress certain types of grass (like St. Augustine or Zoysia). Check the label to ensure the product is safe for your specific lawn.
Timing Matters
Most broadleaf weed killers work best when weeds are actively growing. This is usually in the spring or early fall. Applying during extreme heat or drought often reduces the product’s effectiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lawn Weed Killer Concentrates
Q: Why should I buy a concentrate instead of a ready-to-use spray?
A: Concentrates are much cheaper per gallon of mixed spray. You only pay for the active ingredients, not the water. They also let you customize the strength for different jobs.
Q: How long must I wait after spraying before letting pets or children on the lawn?
A: This depends entirely on the specific active ingredients. Always wait until the treated area is completely dry to the touch. Check the product label for the exact re-entry time.
Q: Can I use the same concentrate on weeds in my garden beds?
A: Only if you are using a non-selective killer, and even then, be extremely careful. Most lawn weed killer concentrates are selective and will harm desirable garden plants. Read the label carefully.
Q: What is the best temperature to apply weed killer concentrate?
A: Generally, temperatures between 60°F and 85°F work best. Avoid applying when temperatures are expected to go above 90°F or during frost, as the weeds are less receptive to the chemicals.
Q: Does the concentrate kill tough weeds like crabgrass?
A: Some concentrates are formulated specifically for grassy weeds like crabgrass, while others only target broadleaf weeds (like clover). You need a product labeled for “grassy weed control” if crabgrass is your main problem.
Q: How do I store leftover concentrate safely?
A: Store the container tightly sealed in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Keep it locked up and far away from food, feed, and children.
Q: Will rain wash away the effectiveness of the spray?
A: Yes, if it rains too soon. Most products require at least 2 to 4 hours of dry weather after application to fully absorb into the weed before rain can wash it away.
Q: What equipment do I need for mixing and spraying concentrates?
A: You need a dedicated measuring tool (like a measuring cup only used for chemicals), a large container for mixing (if required), and a functioning backpack or pump sprayer calibrated for the correct dilution ratio.
Q: How long does it take to see results after application?
A: For fast-acting products, you might see wilting within 24 hours. For slower, systemic killers, it can take 7 to 14 days to see the weed completely die off.
Q: What if the concentrate doesn’t seem to work on some weeds?
A: This often means the weeds were too mature, the weather was too cold, or you used the wrong dilution ratio. Try a spot treatment again in two weeks, ensuring you follow the mixing instructions precisely.