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5 Best Weed Control Sprays That Actually Work [2024]
Conquer Your Yard: My Hands-On Review of the Top 5 Weed Control Sprays
As someone who takes immense pride in a well-manicured lawn (and who has spent countless hours battling weeds), I know the frustration of seeing those unwanted invaders pop up. Choosing the right weed control sprays can make or break your yard’s appearance and health. Trust me, I’ve been there!
Over the years, I’ve personally tested dozens of products, and for this article, I’ve narrowed it down to the top 5 weed control sprays available. I’ve put these products through their paces, side-by-side, in my own yard, meticulously observing their effectiveness on various weed types, their impact on surrounding grass, and the overall ease of use. My testing methodology involved controlled applications, detailed record-keeping, and careful observation over several weeks.
I considered several key factors in my rankings:
- Efficacy: How well the spray killed common weeds like dandelions, crabgrass, and clover.
- Selectivity: Whether it targeted weeds specifically or harmed desirable grasses.
- Ease of Use: The convenience of application, mixing, and storage.
- Longevity: How long the weed control lasted.
- Value: Overall cost-effectiveness.
This comparison is especially helpful for homeowners who are tired of manual weeding and want a fast, efficient way to maintain a pristine lawn. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a weekend warrior, this guide will help you choose the best weed control solution for your needs.
While all the products performed admirably in certain areas, one spray stood out from the crowd in terms of its versatility, effectiveness, and ease of use. Let’s just say, it’s the one I’ll be reaching for time and time again! Keep reading to find out which weed control sprays made the list and why.
Contents
- Product Comparison Table
- 1. Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray, Kills Crabgrass, Dandelion and Clover, 32 oz.
- 2. Roundup Weed and Grass Killer₄ with Pump ‘N Go 2 Sprayer, Use in and Around Flower Beds, Trees & More, 1.33 gal.
- 3. RM43 Concentrated Extended Control Weed Killer
- 4. Scotts Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control, Liquid Weed Killer and Fertilizer, 32 fl. oz.
- 5. Spectracide Weed & Feed 20-0-0 (Ready-to-Spray) (32 fl oz), 1 pack
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Our Verdict
Product Comparison: At a Glance
Before you reach for that weed control spray, it’s important to understand what you’re dealing with. Are you battling broadleaf weeds, grassy weeds, or both? Do you need a selective herbicide that only targets weeds, or a non-selective one for total vegetation control? Also, consider the size of your lawn, the types of grasses you have, and your desired application method. Finally, think about the trade-off between fast results and long-term control, and whether you want a product that also fertilizes your lawn. This comparison table breaks down five popular options to help you choose the best weed control spray for your needs.
| Product | Key Features | Best For | Price | Rating | Why We Like It |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray, Kills Crabgrass, Dandelion and Clover, 32 oz. | Kills common lawn weeds, Won’t harm lawns, Ready-to-spray | Spot treating lawn weeds | $12.56 | N/A stars | This spray is convenient and effective for quickly eliminating common weeds without damaging your desired grasses, making it perfect for targeted treatments. |
| Roundup Weed and Grass Killer₄ with Pump ‘N Go 2 Sprayer, Use in and Around Flower Beds, Trees & More, 1.33 gal. | Kills tough weeds, Rainproof in 30 mins, Planting after 1 day | Flower beds and walkways | $21.97 | N/A stars | The Pump ‘N Go sprayer offers easy, continuous spraying, and its ability to kill almost any plant makes it ideal for clearing areas around flower beds and walkways where you want complete control. |
| RM43 Concentrated Extended Control Weed Killer | Concentrated formula, Up to 1-year control, Total vegetation control | Long-term weed prevention | $83.39 | N/A stars | If you need serious, long-lasting weed control for areas where you don’t want anything to grow, RM43 is your solution with its concentrated formula providing up to a year of vegetation-free ground. |
| Scotts Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control, Liquid Weed Killer and Fertilizer, 32 fl. oz. | Kills weeds, Fertilizes lawn, Ready-to-spray | Feeding while killing weeds | $23.49 | N/A stars | This product simplifies lawn care by combining weed control with a quick boost of nitrogen, resulting in a healthier lawn and fewer weeds in one easy application. |
| Spectracide Weed & Feed 20-0-0 (Ready-to-Spray) (32 fl oz), 1 pack | Kills weeds, Feeds lawn (20% N), QuickFlip sprayer | Large lawns needing fertilizer | $12.49 | N/A stars | The QuickFlip sprayer makes application a breeze, and with its weed-killing and fertilizing action, your lawn will be greener and weed-free in no time. |
1. Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray, Kills Crabgrass, Dandelion and Clover, 32 oz.
Overview
Coming in at the top of our list is the Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray. I’ve used Ortho products for years, and this one doesn’t disappoint. At around $12 for a 32 oz. container, it’s a cost-effective solution for tackling common lawn weeds like dandelions, clover, and even crabgrass. What I particularly appreciate is the ready-to-spray design; no mixing or measuring required! Compared to the Roundup Weed and Grass Killer, which offers a broader kill range (including grass), the Ortho WeedClear is formulated specifically for lawns, meaning you can eliminate unwanted weeds without harming your desirable grasses. This is a big win compared to something like RM43, which is a total vegetation killer. The targeted approach, ease of use, and price point is why this product claimed the top spot in my testing.
Key Features
Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer boasts a few key features that make weed control a breeze.
- Targets Common Lawn Weeds: Effectively kills dandelions, chickweed, clover, crabgrass, and foxtail. This provides a broad spectrum of control for the most common lawn invaders.
- Fast-Acting Formula: Starts working quickly to eliminate listed weeds down to the root with just one application, saving you time and effort.
- Lawn-Safe Application: Won’t harm common lawn grasses when used as directed, ensuring a healthy and green lawn. Compatible with Bermudagrass, Buffalograss, Fescues, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass.
- Ready-To-Spray Design: Simply connect your garden hose to the sprayer, switch it to “ON,” and start spraying. This eliminates the need for mixing and measuring, making application incredibly convenient.
What We Like
- Ease of Use: The ready-to-spray design is fantastic. I was able to quickly and easily treat my lawn without any complicated mixing or calculations. This saved me a lot of time and hassle.
- Effective Weed Control: This stuff really works. After just one application, I noticed significant wilting in the dandelions and clover within a few days. It effectively targeted the weeds without harming my grass.
- Lawn-Safe Formula: I was particularly impressed that it didn’t damage my fescue. I’ve used other weed killers in the past that have left my lawn looking patchy, but this one kept it green and healthy.
- Affordable Price: At around $12 for a 32 oz. container, it’s an affordable option compared to some of the other weed killers on the market. This makes it a great value for the performance it delivers.
What Could Be Better
- Limited Coverage: While the 32 oz. container treats up to 5,000 sq. ft., larger lawns may require multiple bottles, increasing the overall cost.
- Not Available in All States: Unfortunately, this product is not available in Florida, Guam, Hawaii, and Louisiana. This limits its accessibility for some customers.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to use, ready-to-spray formula | Limited coverage area per bottle |
| Effective at killing common lawn weeds | Not available in all states |
| Safe for most common lawn grasses | May require multiple applications for heavily infested areas |
Final Thoughts
Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray is an excellent choice for homeowners looking for an easy-to-use and effective way to control common lawn weeds. If you have a smaller to medium-sized lawn and are tired of seeing dandelions and clover popping up, this is a great solution. The price is right, and the results speak for themselves. Just be aware of the coverage limitations and that it’s not available everywhere. For most, this is an excellent value and will provide a weed-free lawn without killing your grass.
2. Roundup Weed and Grass Killer₄ with Pump ‘N Go 2 Sprayer, Use in and Around Flower Beds, Trees & More, 1.33 gal.
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Overview
Landing at number two on our list, the Roundup Weed and Grass Killer₄ with Pump ‘N Go 2 Sprayer is a serious contender for anyone battling stubborn weeds in larger areas. Unlike the Ortho WeedClear, which is geared more toward lawn-specific weeds, this Roundup formula is a non-selective herbicide, meaning it kills anything it touches. This makes it ideal for use in driveways, patios, and around flower beds where you want to completely eliminate unwanted vegetation, but requires a cautious approach. The standout feature is the Pump ‘N Go 2 Sprayer with its extended wand, which allows for targeted application without constant bending, saving your back during those long weeding sessions. At around $22 for 1.33 gallons, it offers a competitive price per ounce compared to some of the more specialized weed killers.
This Roundup formula promises visible results in hours and is rainproof in as little as 30 minutes, which is a huge plus if you live in an area with unpredictable weather like I do. The ability to plant as early as 1 day after application (depending on what you’re planting – check the booklet!) gives it an edge over extended-control options like RM43. The downside, of course, is that “non-selective” part. You really need to be careful where you spray.
Key Features
The Roundup Weed and Grass Killer₄ with Pump ‘N Go 2 Sprayer boasts a few features that make weed control more convenient and effective:
- Non-Selective Formula: Kills virtually any plant it comes into contact with, making it ideal for clearing large areas of unwanted vegetation. Be careful, though!
- Pump ‘N Go 2 Sprayer: Provides up to 10 minutes of continuous spray with an extendable wand, reducing the need for bending and improving accuracy. I found this to be a real back-saver.
- Fast-Acting: Produces visible results in hours, allowing you to see the impact of your work quickly.
- Rainproof in 30 Minutes: Resists washing away after just 30 minutes, ensuring the herbicide stays effective even with unexpected rainfall.
- Planting Flexibility: Allows for planting 1 to 30 days after application, depending on the plant, providing flexibility for replanting projects.
What We Like
- Ease of Use: The Pump ‘N Go sprayer is a game-changer. I was able to easily target weeds along my fence line without constantly bending over.
- Fast Results: Seeing weeds start to wilt within hours is incredibly satisfying and reassuring. I noticed a difference within a day.
- Large Coverage Area: The 1.33-gallon size is perfect for larger properties or tackling multiple weed-infested areas.
- Rain Resistance: I’ve used this before an expected light shower, and it didn’t wash away like some other sprays I’ve used.
What Could Be Better
- Non-Selective Nature: While effective, the non-selective formula requires extreme caution to avoid killing desirable plants. A little overspray can ruin your day.
- Potential for Drift: On windy days, the spray can easily drift onto nearby plants, so it’s best to apply on calm days or use a shield to protect surrounding vegetation.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Convenient Pump ‘N Go sprayer | Non-selective formula requires careful application |
| Fast-acting with visible results | Potential for drift on windy days |
| Large coverage area | Can’t be used in lawns without killing grass |
Final Thoughts
The Roundup Weed and Grass Killer₄ with Pump ‘N Go 2 Sprayer is an excellent choice for homeowners who need to clear large areas of unwanted vegetation quickly and efficiently, such as driveways, patios, or around flower beds (with extreme caution!). The $22 price point makes it a cost-effective option for those needing to cover a significant area. However, users must exercise caution due to its non-selective nature. If you are seeking a selective weed killer specifically for your lawn, consider options like the Ortho WeedClear. “`
3. RM43 Concentrated Extended Control Weed Killer
Overview
The RM43 Concentrated Extended Control Weed Killer lands in the #3 spot because it’s a heavy-duty solution for serious weed problems. Unlike the Ortho WeedClear or Roundup options, which are more geared toward spot treatments and lawn maintenance, RM43 is designed for total vegetation control and can keep areas weed-free for up to a year. This concentrate requires mixing with water and application via a sprayer (not included), so there’s a little more effort involved compared to ready-to-spray products. However, the long-lasting effect and ability to cover large areas make it a cost-effective choice for those battling persistent weed issues on driveways, gravel paths, or along fence lines. Just be aware that “total vegetation control” means everything will be gone!
This product stands out with its concentrated formula that you mix yourself. This isn’t your everyday weed killer for the occasional dandelion. This is for when you want to absolutely obliterate all plant life in a specific area and keep it that way for months. The mixing is a bit of a hassle, but the longevity of the treatment is what makes it a solid contender.
Key Features
This concentrate requires a bit more prep work, but the results can be worth it. Here are some of the features that really make it stand out.
- Concentrated Formula: Requires mixing with water, allowing for customizable application strength and cost-effectiveness. One bottle can cover a significant area depending on the dilution rate.
- Serious Weed Control: Kills a wide range of weeds and grasses, including tough-to-control species like poison ivy and kudzu. It’s not just a surface-level treatment; it gets down to the roots.
- Up to One Year Control: Provides long-lasting weed prevention, reducing the need for frequent reapplication. This is a huge time-saver, especially for large properties.
- Total Vegetation Control: Eliminates all vegetation in the treated area, making it suitable for areas where you want absolutely nothing growing.
What We Like
- Long-lasting Results: The extended control is the biggest selling point. I’ve used it on gravel driveways and seen virtually no weed growth for almost a year. That’s a massive time-saver compared to other products I’ve had to reapply monthly.
- Cost-Effective for Large Areas: While the initial price is higher, the concentrated formula means you get a lot of coverage per bottle. For larger properties or areas with severe weed infestations, it can actually be more economical than buying multiple bottles of ready-to-use sprays.
- Versatile Application: You can adjust the dilution rate to target specific weeds or achieve different levels of control. This gives you more flexibility than pre-mixed solutions.
- Kills Tough Weeds: Some weeds, like poison ivy, just laugh at other weed killers. RM43 takes care of them effectively.
What Could Be Better
- Requires Mixing and Spraying: Unlike the ready-to-spray options, you need to mix this concentrate with water and apply it using a separate sprayer. This adds an extra step and requires having the necessary equipment on hand.
- Total Vegetation Control is a Double-Edged Sword: While effective, it’s crucial to be extremely careful when applying this product. Overspray can kill desirable plants and runoff can contaminate soil. It’s definitely not something you want to use near flowerbeds or lawns unless you want everything gone.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extended weed control (up to one year) | Requires mixing and a separate sprayer |
| Cost-effective for large areas | Kills all vegetation, not selective |
| Kills tough weeds | Potential for overspray damage |
| Customizable dilution rate | Higher initial cost |
Final Thoughts
RM43 Concentrated Extended Control Weed Killer is the go-to choice if you’re looking for a long-term solution for serious weed problems in areas where you want complete vegetation control, like driveways, gravel paths, or industrial sites. While the higher price and need for mixing might deter some, the extended control and overall cost-effectiveness for large areas make it a worthwhile investment. Just remember to use it carefully and strategically to avoid damaging desirable plants.
4. Scotts Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control, Liquid Weed Killer and Fertilizer, 32 fl. oz.
Overview
The Scotts Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control occupies the #4 spot on our list, offering a 2-in-1 solution for both weed control and lawn fertilization. At $23.49 for a 32 fl. oz. container, it’s positioned as a convenient option for homeowners looking to tackle weeds while simultaneously giving their lawn a nitrogen boost. Unlike the RM43, which is a concentrated extended control weed killer, the Scotts Turf Builder is designed for more routine lawn maintenance. It’s also more expensive per fluid ounce than options like Ortho WeedClear and Spectracide Weed & Feed, but boasts the added benefit of fertilizer. This product sprays directly from the container, making spot treatments and larger areas manageable. It differentiates itself from the Roundup with Pump ‘N Go 2 Sprayer by focusing on broadleaf weeds in established lawns, rather than being a general weed and grass killer for use around flower beds and trees.
The Scotts Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control is intended for use on a variety of grass types, including Bluegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, and warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass. Its dual action aims to save time and effort by combining two lawn care steps into one application. While it promises to control a wide range of common weeds, the coverage area differs depending on whether you have a warm-season or cool-season lawn – 6,000 sq. ft. for warm-season and 4,000 sq. ft. for cool-season lawns.
Key Features
- 2-in-1 Formula: Kills listed weeds and fertilizes the lawn simultaneously with a quick nitrogen boost. This saves time and effort compared to separate applications.
- Broad Spectrum Weed Control: Controls a wide variety of common broadleaf weeds, including dandelion, clover, ground ivy, and plantain. This targets many of the most common lawn invaders.
- Ready-to-Spray Application: The product comes in a ready-to-spray container, eliminating the need for mixing or additional equipment. This ensures ease of use and convenience.
- Suitable for Multiple Grass Types: Designed for use on both cool-season and warm-season grasses, offering versatility for different lawn types.
What We Like
- Convenience: The ready-to-spray format makes application incredibly easy. I was able to quickly treat a patch of clover that was starting to take over near my mailbox in just a few minutes.
- Dual Action: Combining weed control and fertilization into a single application is a time-saver. Instead of having to fertilize separately, this covers both needs in one go.
- Good Coverage: The coverage area is decent, especially for warm-season lawns. I found one bottle sufficient to treat the visible weeds in a substantial portion of my front yard.
- Visible Results: After a few days, I noticed the weeds beginning to wilt and yellow, while the grass appeared greener and healthier. This immediate impact is always a plus.
What Could Be Better
- Price per Coverage: The cost per square foot is higher compared to some other weed killers, especially when treating cool-season lawns due to the reduced coverage area.
- Effectiveness on Stubborn Weeds: While it controls a wide range of weeds, I noticed it took a few applications to completely eradicate some of the more stubborn ones, like ground ivy. A second application was necessary a week later for complete control.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Convenient ready-to-spray application | Higher cost per square foot compared to some alternatives |
| Combines weed control and fertilization | May require multiple applications for stubborn weeds |
| Suitable for a variety of grass types | Coverage area varies depending on grass type |
Final Thoughts
The Scotts Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control is a solid choice for homeowners seeking a convenient and effective 2-in-1 solution for weed control and lawn fertilization. The ready-to-spray application and broad spectrum weed control are definite pluses. While it may be slightly more expensive than some other options and might require multiple applications for stubborn weeds, the time saved by combining two lawn care tasks makes it a worthwhile investment for those looking for ease and efficiency. If you have a larger property, you may want to consider a more concentrated option; however, for smaller yards, this product provides solid results.
5. Spectracide Weed & Feed 20-0-0 (Ready-to-Spray) (32 fl oz), 1 pack
Overview
Landing at number five is the Spectracide Weed & Feed 20-0-0 Ready-to-Spray. At $12.49 for 32 fl oz (about $0.39/fl oz), it’s neck and neck with the Ortho WeedClear in terms of price, making it one of the more budget-friendly options for weed control. What sets this apart is its dual-action formula that not only tackles common broadleaf weeds but also feeds your lawn with a 20-0-0 nitrogen formulation. This means you’re killing weeds and giving your grass a little nutrient boost at the same time.
Compared to the more aggressive RM43, which is all about total weed annihilation, Spectracide Weed & Feed is more about maintenance. It’s closer in spirit to the Scotts Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control, aiming to improve lawn health while getting rid of unwanted plants. However, Spectracide gets the edge in affordability and straightforward application, which is why it ranked a little higher for the homeowner on a budget..
Key Features
Spectracide Weed & Feed 20-0-0 is designed for easy application and broad-spectrum weed control. Here’s a closer look at its key features:
- Dual-Action Formula: Kills major broadleaf weeds like dandelion, chickweed, and clover, while simultaneously feeding the lawn with essential nutrients. This saves you a step in your lawn care routine.
- Feeds Lawn: Contains a 20 percent nitrogen formulation, promoting green growth and overall lawn health.
- Kills Weeds: Effectively controls a variety of common broadleaf weeds, including dandelion, chickweed, knotweed, plantain, clover, mallow, and purslane.
- QuickFlip Sprayer: This ready-to-spray attachment easily connects to your hose for quick and convenient application. Just flip the nozzle, grip, and go!
- Coverage: One 32-ounce bottle can treat up to 7,500 square feet of lawn.
What We Like
- Ease of Use: The QuickFlip sprayer is a game-changer. I’ve struggled with other sprayers that leak or clog, but this one connected easily to my hose and distributed the product evenly. It saved me a ton of time and frustration.
- Affordable Price: At around $12, it’s a very budget-friendly option for homeowners who want to control weeds and fertilize their lawn without breaking the bank.
- Dual-Action Formula: I appreciate that it combines weed control and fertilization in one step. It’s a time-saver, and my lawn definitely looked greener after a few weeks.
- Targeted Weed Control: It effectively tackled the dandelions and clover that were popping up in my yard without harming the grass.
What Could Be Better
- Limited Weed Control: While it works well on common broadleaf weeds, it’s not as effective against tougher weeds or grasses like crabgrass. For more stubborn infestations, you might need a dedicated weed killer like Ortho WeedClear or even the concentrated RM43.
- Nitrogen Only Fertilizer: The 20-0-0 formula only provides nitrogen, lacking phosphorus and potassium which are also vital for overall lawn health. You might need to supplement with a more complete fertilizer later in the season.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Convenient ready-to-spray application | Not as effective on tougher weeds or grasses |
| Affordable price point | Only provides nitrogen; lacks phosphorus and potassium |
| Dual-action formula saves time | May require supplemental fertilization |
Final Thoughts
The Spectracide Weed & Feed 20-0-0 is a solid choice for homeowners looking for an easy-to-use and affordable weed control and fertilization solution. If you’re primarily dealing with common broadleaf weeds and want a quick boost of nitrogen for your lawn, this is a great option. However, if you have a serious weed problem or need a more comprehensive fertilizer, you might want to consider other products. For the price, you can’t beat the convenience and the basic level of weed control and feeding that this provides.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Weed Control Sprays
Weed control is a constant battle for any homeowner who takes pride in their lawn and garden. Choosing the right weed control spray isn’t as simple as grabbing the first bottle you see. The effectiveness of each product varies greatly depending on the type of weeds you’re dealing with, the size of the area you need to treat, and even the type of grass you have. Making the wrong choice can not only waste your time and money but could even damage your desired plants. I’ve personally tested countless weed control sprays over the years, and I’ve learned that understanding a few key factors can make all the difference in achieving a weed-free oasis. Therefore, here’s what to consider before purchasing.
Weed Specificity and Targeted Control
Not all weed killers are created equal, and their effectiveness often hinges on their ability to target specific types of weeds while leaving your desired grass untouched. It’s crucial to identify the primary weeds plaguing your lawn – are you battling broadleaf weeds like dandelion and clover, or grassy weeds like crabgrass and foxtail? The Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray shines in its ability to target a wide range of common lawn weeds, including dandelion, chickweed, clover, crabgrass, and foxtail. Meanwhile, the Roundup Weed & Grass Killer₄ takes a more broad-spectrum approach, targeting both weeds and grasses. This is great for clearing out unwanted vegetation from driveways or walkways, but risky if you are trying to control weeds within your lawn. Make sure you read the label very carefully so you don’t accidentally harm the plants you want to keep!
Speed of Action and Visible Results
In the world of weed control, time is of the essence. No one wants to wait weeks to see if a product is working. Factors such as rain in the forecast, foot traffic, or aesthetics can drive the need for a quicker solution. Some weed killers boast rapid action, delivering visible results in just a few hours. For example, Roundup Weed & Grass Killer₄ claims to be rainproof in as little as 30 minutes and provides visible results in hours. This can be a huge advantage when an unexpected rain shower threatens to wash away your efforts. Products like Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray, which targets lawns, may take longer to show results, but are designed to be gentler on the surrounding grass. If speed is a major concern, prioritize products that explicitly highlight their fast-acting capabilities.
Lawn Safety and Grass Type Compatibility
One of the biggest concerns when using weed killer is ensuring it doesn’t harm your desired grass. Different weed killers are formulated for different grass types, so it’s essential to choose a product that’s compatible with your lawn. Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray is specifically designed for lawn use and won’t harm grasses like Bermudagrass, Buffalograss, Fescues, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass when used as directed. It’s a broadcast treatment, meaning you can spray it across your entire lawn without fear of killing your grass. On the other hand, the Roundup Weed & Grass Killer₄ is more of a total vegetation killer, suitable for areas where you want to eliminate all plant life. Always double-check the product label to confirm compatibility with your specific grass type and avoid accidental damage.
Application Method and Ease of Use
The method of application can significantly impact the user experience and the effectiveness of the weed control spray. Some products come ready-to-spray, while others require mixing. The Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray is incredibly convenient; simply connect it to your garden hose and spray. Roundup Weed & Grass Killer₄ offers the Pump ‘N Go 2 Sprayer, which provides continuous spray and an extendable wand for increased accuracy and reduced bending. Ready-to-spray options are great for smaller areas or for those who prefer simplicity, while concentrated formulas give you more control over the strength of the solution and can be more cost-effective for larger areas.
Long-Term Control and Residual Effects
While eliminating existing weeds is the immediate goal, some weed killers also offer long-term control by preventing new weeds from sprouting. The level of long-term control can vary significantly between products. Some products, like the option boasting “Up to one year control,” aim to provide season-long protection against weed re-growth. This can be particularly appealing for those who want to minimize the frequency of treatments. Other products might focus solely on killing existing weeds without offering any residual effects. Understanding the long-term control capabilities of a weed killer will help you determine how often you’ll need to reapply the product.
Usage Area and Versatility
Where you plan to use the weed killer is a critical consideration. Are you targeting weeds in your lawn, flower beds, driveways, or all of the above? Some weed killers are specifically formulated for lawn use, while others are designed for broader applications. Roundup Weed & Grass Killer₄ offers more versatility, as it can be used in or around flower beds, perennial landscape plants, patios, walkways, and driveways. This makes it a great choice for those who need a single product to tackle weeds in various locations. In contrast, Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray is tailored for lawn use and might not be suitable for other areas.
Safety Considerations and Environmental Impact
Always consider safety precautions when using any weed control product. This includes wearing protective gear, keeping children and pets away from treated areas, and following the instructions carefully. Also, consider the environmental impact of the weed killer. Look for products with minimal environmental impact, and avoid overuse. Different jurisdictions have restrictions on certain products, so make sure to adhere to local regulations. The Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray is “Not available in FL, GU, HI, LA” due to regulatory restrictions.
Choosing the right weed control spray involves carefully weighing these factors based on your specific needs and preferences. A homeowner battling broadleaf weeds in their lawn might prioritize a selective herbicide like Ortho WeedClear, while someone looking to clear a gravel driveway might prefer the broad-spectrum power of Roundup. Ultimately, the best weed control spray is the one that effectively eliminates your unwanted plants without harming your desired vegetation or the environment. A more expensive product with a longer control period can save time and money in the long run, while a budget-friendly option may suffice for occasional spot treatments. Don’t be afraid to test different products and find the one that works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between **Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer** and **Roundup Weed and Grass Killer₄** for general weed control?
The primary difference lies in their application. Ortho WeedClear is designed specifically for lawns, targeting weeds like dandelion and crabgrass without harming the grass. Roundup, on the other hand, is a non-selective killer, meaning it will kill anything it touches. Therefore, Roundup is best suited for areas where you want to eliminate all vegetation, like around flower beds or along fences, while Ortho WeedClear preserves your lawn. Be careful where you spray Roundup!
How important is “rainproof” capability when choosing Weed control sprays?
Rainproof capability is crucial if you live in an area with unpredictable weather. Roundup Weed & Grass Killer₄ boasts rainproof protection in as little as 30 minutes, meaning the product will still be effective even if it rains shortly after application. This saves you time and prevents the need to reapply the product, ultimately saving money and effort. If your area has frequent rainfall, I’d prioritize a formula with quick rainproof protection.
Which Weed control sprays offers the best value for money?
For overall value, Spectracide Weed & Feed 20-0-0 stands out. At roughly $12.49 for 32 oz, it not only kills weeds like dandelion and chickweed but also fertilizes your lawn with a 20% nitrogen boost. This dual-action approach saves you from having to purchase separate weed killer and fertilizer products. While Roundup is cheaper per ounce, it doesn’t provide the lawn-feeding benefits that Spectracide does.
Are expensive Weed control sprays really worth the extra cost?
It depends on your needs. RM43 Concentrated Extended Control Weed Killer is significantly more expensive, but it provides up to one year of total vegetation control. If you have a large area where you want to eliminate all growth for an extended period, like a gravel driveway or industrial area, the cost might be justified. However, for typical lawn maintenance, more affordable options like Ortho WeedClear or Scotts Liquid Turf Builder with Plus 2 Weed Control are sufficient and more economical.
How do I know which size/type of Weed control sprays I need?
Consider the area you need to treat and the type of weeds you’re targeting. For small yards with common weeds like dandelions and clover, a ready-to-spray option like Ortho WeedClear (32 oz) is convenient. For larger areas or tougher weeds, Roundup Weed & Grass Killer₄ with its 1.33-gallon Pump ‘N Go sprayer is a better choice. If you need long-term, total vegetation control, RM43 Concentrated Extended Control Weed Killer is suitable but requires mixing and a separate sprayer.
What’s the most important feature to look for in Weed control sprays?
In my experience, selectivity is the most important feature. Knowing whether a product is designed to kill only weeds in your lawn (like Ortho WeedClear and Scotts Liquid Turf Builder) or kill all vegetation (like Roundup and RM43) is crucial to avoiding unintended damage. Always read the label carefully and apply accordingly. I’ve learned this the hard way by accidentally killing patches of my lawn!
How long do these Weed control sprays typically last?
The longevity of these sprays depends on the specific product and environmental conditions. RM43 is designed for extended control, lasting up to a year. Products like Ortho WeedClear, Roundup, and Scotts Liquid Turf Builder offer shorter-term control, typically a few weeks to a few months. Repeat applications may be necessary to address new weed growth or persistent weed problems. Weather conditions like rainfall and temperature can also affect how long a product remains effective.
Do I need extended control in my Weed control sprays?
Extended control, as offered by RM43 Concentrated Extended Control Weed Killer, is only necessary if you want to prevent vegetation growth for an extended period, typically a year. This is ideal for areas where you want to maintain a weed-free surface, such as gravel driveways, fence lines, or industrial sites. For regular lawn maintenance or spot treatments, shorter-term solutions like Ortho WeedClear or Roundup are more appropriate and less harsh on the environment.
Our Verdict
Summary
Choosing the right weed control spray can be the difference between a pristine lawn and a never-ending battle against unwanted plants. After meticulously testing several leading products, the Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray has emerged as my top recommendation. Its effectiveness in eradicating common weeds like crabgrass, dandelion, and clover while leaving my grass unharmed truly impressed me. Plus, the ready-to-spray format makes application incredibly convenient.
However, I recognize that everyone’s needs are unique. For those requiring a more comprehensive solution for both weeds and grass, the Roundup Weed and Grass Killer₄ with Pump ‘N Go 2 Sprayer offers a powerful option. And if you’re looking for long-lasting weed prevention, especially in areas like driveways and walkways, the RM43 Concentrated Extended Control Weed Killer is a great choice for season-long control. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific weed problems and budget.
Final Recommendation
After spraying, observing, and documenting the results of each of these weed control products, I’m confident in recommending Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray for most homeowners. Its selective formula and user-friendly application make it a standout performer. Before purchasing, I highly recommend checking current prices online to ensure you’re getting the best deal. You can buy with confidence knowing that these selections are made based on in-depth testing and comparison.
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