Dandelions weed killer
Top 8 Most Reliable & Best Dandelion Killers - Get These Weeds Off Your Garden & Lawn
Removing dandelions can be a difficult process. They are known to grown long and thick. You will see that the best way to remove them is by using a high-grade dandelion killer.
You will find that the following products serve to kill dandelions in as pure a form as possible. The first step, however, is to be well-informed on the different types of products and the benefits that they provide you with.
It can be difficult to find the best dandelion killer. Fortunately, we are here to help you get the best product for the job.
If you don’t have the time to read the whole article, here are our top choices for dandelion killers.
- Best Organic Dandelion Killers
- Pre-emergent, Selective, Granule: Espoma Organic Weed Preventer
- Pre-emergent, Selective, Spray: Green It Environmental Factor RTS Corn Gluten Weed Preventer
- Pre-emergent, Non-Selective, Spray: Natural Weed Killer Made with Ocean Water and Commercial Food Grade Vinegar
- Best Chemical Dandelion Killers
- Pre-emergent, Selective, Spray: Southern Ag- 12401- Suflan A. S.
- Post-emergent, Non-selective, Spray: Compare-N-Save Concentrate Grass and Weed Killer
- Post-emergent, Selective, Spray: Southern Ag 2, 4-D Amine Weed Killer
- Post-emergent, Selective, Granule: Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed Fertilizer
Buying Guide
When buying a product, you deserve to get only the best. In order to do this, you must know what to look for. It is important that you eliminate the entire plant so that it will not grow right back. There are several benefits to buying dandelion killer.
Using a killer makes sure that they stay gone longer. It also makes for an easier process than tugging and pulling on them by hand.
Also, if you have a lot of dandelions manually trying to get rid of them will take a while. A dandelion killer helps you make sure that all of them are gone.
There are many different things that make for a great dandelion killer. Below you will find information that can help you choose the best killer for your lawn!
Organic or Chemical
You have the choice between using an organic killer or a chemical one. They both work well, but there is some controversy between the two. Using the chemical killer has proven to be a lot more accurate and quick. It does, however, has the potential to harm pets and children.
The organic killer takes a little bit longer to take effect, and you might have to apply it more than once. The biggest benefit to this kind of product is that it is safe if anyone comes into contact with it.
You will need to get a pump sprayer. This helps mix all of your concentrates together in one place. The sprayer makes spreading the killer a much faster and easier process.
Pre-Emergent and Post-Emergent
There is also the option between pre-emergent and post-emergent dandelion killers. Once you have selected chemical or organic, then you will need to choose one of these two.
Using a pre-emergent means that you can attack the seeds before they can grow. Essentially, you are interrupting the growing process and trying to solve the issue before it becomes one. They are a group of ingredients that stop dandelions before they germinate. You can either get a liquid or granular pre-emergent. You will apply it directly to the surface of the lawn. The last step is to water it into the soil which will activate the ingredients.
You will need to apply this to your lawn during the winter and fall seasons. One thing to keep in mind is that it is useless if the dandelions have already started growing.
Some users say that the post-emergent is the way to go. You only have to apply this once, and you wait until you see the dandelions starting to come up. Some people noticed that it did not cover very well and that there were patches left at the end.
They use a mix of chemicals that are made to kill the dandelions and make sure that they do not grow back. You will need to saturate the ground at the base of the dandelion. It is imperative that you cover all exposed leaves and stems. Since it is a toxic mix, you will want to make sure that you are wearing the proper gear.
Make sure that you are wearing gloves and a mask. You need to protect yourself from making direct contact, especially with bare skin.
Selectivity and Persistence
You can choose a product that kills without damaging nearby plants or kills all the plants within the vicinity of the dandelions. By using a selective killer, you can get rid of only the dandelions without damaging any other part of your lawn. If you choose a non-selective killer then any part that gets sprayed with also be killed.
Another thing that you need to consider is persistence. This simply describes how long the product is active. Those that do not prevent future growth is called non-persistent. If there is a lasting effect and it helps prevent further growth, it is considered persistent.
It all depends on what kind of prevention you want for your lawn. Using a selective or persistent that helps keep your lawn clear of any nuisances is something that you will want to look for before making a purchase.
The Durability of the Products
It is important that you use a solution that can endure all kinds of weather. This allows you the ability to spray whenever is convenient for you. You will find in the following products that some cannot be used when it rains or when it is too dry. This limits the time and day of when you can use the weed killer.
The best way to know when you can use a product is by reading reviews and following the directions. Each type of killer gives specific instructions, including when you can and cannot use a specific solvent. If it does not state when to use, you might want to contact your seller. By knowing this information ahead of time, you will save a lot of time and money.
You also need to make sure that it can be used on all kinds of grasses and weeds. Some will only kill certain types of weeds. You will need to check that you can use it on the specific weeds that you need to get rid of.
The best thing that you can do is to get a multi-purpose killer. On each product, it should state whether it can be used on all types of weeds or only some. You will want to look for the ones that have been proven to be useful on all kinds of weeds. The following reviews should help you find the best product to get rid of your weed problems.
Best Dandelion Killers Reviews
Organic Dandelion Killers
Organic: Pre-emergent, Selective, Granule
Espoma Organic Weed Preventer
This granulated product sits at 1 X 1 X 1 inches and sits at 25 pounds. It is also easy to pour which makes the application even more thorough. This weed killer will only kill seeds, so you do not have to worry about it spreading to other plants. The only criticism is that you will not be able to plant anything new because the weed preventer hones in on seeds.
This dandelion preventer is made from corn gluten meal. It helps to feed lawns so you can ensure a deep, green color. It will prevent weeds by interrupting root growth. You will need to apply this weed killer twice each year; once in the spring and once in the fall. It also will help enhance the color and protein of your lawn.
You will also see that it is safe to use around children and animals. This makes it safer for you to apply to your lawn while also getting the results that you want. It is important to consider safety when trying to choose a product. This weed killer can help give you a bright green lawn that is free from weeds and safe for all those that walk and play on it.
Pros
- Safe for pets and children
- Helps brighten lawns
Cons
- Only works on seeds
- Must apply a heavy layer to weeds
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Organic: Pre-emergent, Selective, Spray
Green It Environmental Factor RTS Corn Gluten Weed Preventer
This product is 3.2 X 5.2 X 11.2 inches and sits at 4.4 pounds. It also covers 2,000 square feet of area. It comes ready to spray and will help get rid of dandelions, crabgrass, and clover. It has a patented water-soluble for fast-acting protection.
It covers more area with less product compared to the granular corn-based products. This is ideally used in lawns, flower beds, and around trees. This weed preventer releases organic proteins to help prevent weed roots from stabilizing. By catching the weeds before establishment, the product can effectively get rid of them and keep them from coming back for a long while. The key is to use it as directed.
To apply this, you will need to attach your hose to the hose-end attachment. You then shake and set the dial into the ‘on’ position. There is no calibration or mixing required in order to use this product. This means that you will not have to spend much time on spraying your weeds.
A few people mentioned that you might want to get your own sprayer. There were a few issues with the one that comes with the product. Many found that the coverage was close to flawless when using their own sprayer, though.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Covers a wide area
- Safe for pets and children
Cons
- Inconsistent spray
- Sprayer clogs frequently
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Organic: Pre-emergent, Non-Selective, Spray
Natural Weed Killer Made with Ocean Water and Commercial Food Grade Vinegar
You can choose from a range of sizes – it all depends on the size of the area you are treating. It has an incredibly long shelf-life so no worries if you do not use the entire product. By getting a large container that lasts a while you will always have weed killer on hand for whenever you need it.
This is perfect for those that want to kill weeds but keep their surroundings safe. It works fast and does not require mixing or safety gear. It comes ready to spray with a non-selective vinegar and ocean water solution. It travels all the way to the roots so that the weed does not grow back immediately. By getting a solution that targets the roots, there is a higher chance of it killing the weeds faster and keeping them going for longer. This way you will have to reapply the product multiple times within a couple of weeks span.
Many people found that this product did not kill their weeds and keep them dead. It is a safe solution which may slightly affect how long it kills the weeds. One way that you might be able to make this product more effective is by layering the solution. This will take some extra time, but by putting on a heavy layer there are higher chances of it to work.
Pros
- Children and pet-friendly
- Fast-acting
Cons
- Malfunctioned hose
- Not usable on laws
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Chemical Dandelion Killers
Chemical: Pre-emergent, Selective, Spray
Southern Ag- 12401- Suflan A.S.
This weed killer is 2 X 4 X 6 inches and weighs 2.65 pounds. The weight of this bottle makes it easy to transport and use all over your property. It has been made so that your job of walking around with your killer is not such a hassle.
There are several ways that you can use this specific preventative. Once you spray it, you can water it immediately or wait up to 21 days. it is also able to last up to 4 months. This killer should help control annual grasses and broadleaf weeds. You will want to spray a fairly heavy amount so that it properly covers the weeds you want to eliminate.
Many people have said that they have had the best results when they spray the product before weeds start to appear. Some even noticed that it helps rid the yard of stickers which is an added bonus! You will need to make sure that you spray often. This is the only way to make sure that it kills all the weeds that you need for it. It is easy to use, despite the slightly confusing instructions, and you will find that it does not take much time to cover the areas that you need to.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Saves a lot of time
- Orange color helps make sure you covered everything
Cons
- Must apply often
- Hard to read instructions
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Chemical: Post-emergent, Non-selective, Spray
Compare-N-Save Concentrate Grass and Weed Killer
The dimensions of this product read 3.9 X 7.1 X 11.8 inches, and it weighs about 9.65 pounds. The spray comes all ready to use, so you do not have to spend time mixing things together. The way it has been packaged makes it much easier for you to use which helps save you time.
You can use this killer anywhere that you want to get rid of unwanted weeds. The 2.5-gallon container can treat more than 630,000 square feet. You should start seeing results as soon as 2 to 4 days. you will want to make sure that you give the weeds that you are treating a heavy layer of the solution. This will help maximize the results and speed up the process.
For the best results, you will want to apply on a warm sunny day. This will lack any plants it comes in contact with so be aware of where you are spraying. Before spraying, make sure to mix water into the solution. You can find the measurements in the directions on your product.
The biggest thing that you will want to pay attention to is that it is not safe for pets and children. Customers did mention that once it is completely dried the toxicity of the product diminishes, though. This is a great product for those that do not have young ones running around.
Pros
- Quick results
- Great coverage
Cons
- Unsafe for pets
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Chemical: Post-emergent, Selective, Spray
Southern Ag 2, 4-D Amine Weed Killer
This product comes in the dimensions of 9 X 6 X 4 inches and only weighs 2.55 pounds. You can use this killer in any area that has weeds. You can use it on small patches like between sidewalk cracks or a larger area like a lawn or a garden. Since it is so lightweight, you can easily carry the entire container to each area that you want to spray.
You will only need to mix 2-3 tablespoons with 3-5 gallons of water so that you can cover up to 1,000 square feet. You will then want to apply with a low-pressure spray by using a fan-style nozzle. Due to the low-pressure spray, you will want to spray an area a couple of times. This ensures that each weed is properly doused with the solvent.
The biggest issue that several people had was that this comes in such a small size. You might want to consider buying a couple of quarts so that you are sure to cover all that you need to. You will also need to be patient because this killer can take up to 2 weeks to start working. If you are willing to wait, though, you will see effective results many people said.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Works effectively
Cons
- Small size
- Takes up to 2 weeks to work
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Chemical: Post-emergent, Selective, Granule
Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed Fertilizer
You will find this in the dimensions of 18.5 X 3.5 X 12.5 inches and weighing 14.45 pounds. This will help to feed lawns so that they thicken lawns and push out weeds. The way it works is that it will get rid of the annoying weeds that are taking over your lawn, while also nourishing your yard. This helps good nutrients and vegetation to grow in place of the weed. It does this so that weeds are unlikely to grow up from that spot again.
The weed grip technology will make sure to grip weeds you see and do not see. You will find that it cleans out clovers and dandelions. It has been said to be 2x more powerful than other products. You will get optimum results when you apply to a damp lawn.
Several customers raved about how effectively the preventer worked on their weeds. It also helped to brighten the yard, making it more green and healthy-looking. You can make sure that this happens by properly following the directions on the packaging. By following the instructions, you increase your chances of getting rid of all the weeds you want without killing the rest of the green around it.
The only thing to be prepared for is that you might need to put it in a different container to carry around because the one it comes in is very heavy.
Pros
- Effectively kills weeds
- Brightens lawn
Cons
- Heavy container
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Chemical: Post-emergent, Non-selective, Spray
Ortho Ground Clear Vegetation Killer Concentrate
This killer helps to prevent growth for up to one year. It is said to kill all unwanted weeds from all kinds of areas. Several people noticed that it worked quickly, sometimes within even hours. You can apply using a sprinkling can or a sprayer.
It comes in a container that weighs 9.13 pounds and is 7 X 11 X 14 inches. The packaging gives you options on how you want to disperse the products as mentioned above. Depending on the kind of coverage that you want will determine what kind of spraying or sprinkling method you use. Many people found that spraying it seemed to be the most effective, though.
A few people mentioned that depending on the severity of your weeds it might take a few days to see results. Once they do go away, though, they stay away for a long while. This means that you will not have to apply every week for several weeks at a time. The first time you use this product, you will want to go over the same spots several times. This helps make sure that you covered everything that you need to and gets you faster results.
Pros
- Fast-acting
- Easy to apply
- Quick results
Cons
- Must do a couple of applications
Conclusion
We find the Green It Environmental Factor RTS to be the safest choice. It will help you get rid of all those pesky dandelions. This is a better choice because it had the most positive reviews. Many people kept stating that this product actually works and covers well without a lot of hassle. As mentioned before, it is user-friendly and safe. You can kill all of your dandelions and still spend time outside without worrying about how toxic the killer is. It is safe to use around pets and children as well, which is important when treating your yard.
The Best Dandelion Killers of 2022
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Photo: amazon.com
A favorite of children for their delicate seeds that take flight with a single blow of breath, dandelions are among the challenges many home gardeners face in keeping their lawns lush and green.
A single dandelion plant can produce as many as 10,000 seeds that float on the gentlest breeze, so a yard with just a few dandelions can turn quickly into a lawn with hundreds. An effective course of action is to kill the weeds before they can multiply.
In most cases, the best dandelion killer is one that will get rid of the dandelions without harming the surrounding grass. However, if the dandelion infestation is widespread, you may have to kill the entire lawn and start over.
Ahead, learn what to look for when shopping for a dandelion killer, and find out why lawn lovers and groundskeepers prize the following herbicides for eradicating dandelion problems.
- BEST OVERALL: Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action
- BEST BUDGET: Compare-N-Save 2-4-D Amine Broadleaf Weed Killer
- BEST FOR LARGE AREAS: GreenView Weed & Feed
- MOST VERSATILE: BioAdvanced Selective Herbicide
Photo: amazon. com
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Dandelion KillerDandelions are categorized as broadleaf weeds because of their wide, flat leaves that spread out—dinner-plate style—along the ground. Unlike many weeds with shallow root systems, dandelions develop long tap roots that can extend as deep as 2 feet or more in the ground, making them virtually impossible to pull out. Successfully getting rid of this invasive weed usually requires applying an herbicide designed specifically to kill broadleaf plants.
Organic vs. Inorganic IngredientsChemical herbicides have been a point of contention and debate for years, and while they have several disadvantages, they also have advantages. Herbicides come in two main types, organic and inorganic. Each has benefits that can suit individual needs and lifestyles.
Organic:Organic herbicides contain only natural ingredients. They won’t leach toxic chemicals into the environment, but they also typically are less potent than their chemical cousins. Organic dandelion killer products may contain one or more of the following ingredients:
- Salt: Very similar to table salt but without iodine.
- Vinegar: May be concentrated to as much as six times stronger than household vinegar.
- Essential oils: Common essential oils include clove, cinnamon, and wintergreen.
- Soaps: Dish soap and natural detergents or fatty soap acids.
Plant by-products: Corn gluten or corn starch containing proteins that stop weed seeds from sprouting.
This type of herbicide, which contains synthetic and chemical ingredients, can be quite potent. Although some may be designed to kill only specific types of weeds, other types of these weed killers may kill all vegetation. Some broadleaf herbicides also include fertilizers, so in addition to killing weeds, they can boost lawn health. Herbicides designed to kill dandelions and other broadleaf weeds typically contain two or more of the following commonly used chemicals:
- Triclopyr: As a systemic herbicide, it mimics plant growth hormones and tricks the plant into a sudden burst of growth that overwhelms the weeds and kills them.
- 2, 4-D: Short for dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, 2, 4-D is a systemic herbicide that targets only broadleaf weeds, such as dandelions, plantain, and chickweed.
- MCPP: Also known as “Mecoprop,” MCPP, a selective herbicide, kills only broadleaf plants and is often used in combination with another herbicide.
- MCPA: The selective herbicide 2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid (MCPA), which controls broadleaf plants, is most often used in the agriculture industry.
- Dicamba: A systemic broad-spectrum herbicide, dicamba kills broadleaf and other types of plants and weeds by stimulating plant rapid growth.
Some herbicides are “nonselective,” which means they will kill virtually any vegetation they come into contact with. Other herbicides kill only one or a few types of plants, which are called “selective” because they won’t harm other types of plants.
Weed-and-feed-type products are selective because they kill broadleaf weeds like dandelions but don’t harm turf grasses. A selective herbicide is like pulling up a single weed by hand. A nonselective herbicide is more like running a weed whacker.
When used as directed on the label, most selective and nonselective herbicides don’t affect the long-term health of the soil except for those that contain salt. If the herbicide will affect soil health, the product states how much time should elapse before planting in that spot, which could range from a few days after treatment up to a year or longer.
FormatDandelion-killing products are available in different formats, each suited to specific types of infestations and personal preferences.
- Spray bottle: Among the simplest forms of herbicide to use, spray herbicides come in a handy spray bottle for spraying directly on the offending weeds.
- Liquid concentrate: For those with many dandelions, it may be easier to purchase a concentrated liquid to apply using a pump-type sprayer.
- Powder: Powdered herbicides can be used in two different ways: dusting with a duster or by dissolving in water and applying with a sprayer.
- Granules: This herbicide requires the use of a broadcast spreader or drop spreader. Depending on the product, the granules may serve two purposes: killing existing broadleaf weeds and preventing new weed seeds from sprouting.
The key to safely using any type of herbicide is to plan ahead and reduce human and animal exposure. While chemical herbicides present the most risk to humans, pets, and the environment, highly concentrated natural weed killers can irritate skin and kill desirable plants if not applied with care.
Use the following safety tips to help ensure safe use of the product for the environment and all involved.
- Read the label: This can’t be emphasized strongly enough. While many products have instructions, the labels on herbicides are federally regulated and bear the phrase, “It is a violation of federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling. ”
- Water before weeding: Some herbicide products can stress the lawn, so water thoroughly one to two days before applying the product to ensure the grass is healthy and ready to withstand any stress associated with the application.
- Wear eye protection: In most cases, a pair of sunglasses will suffice for eye protection, but if it’s breezy, opt for goggles with side protection.
- Protect skin: Wear long sleeves, long pants, and gloves to protect skin. Avoid leather, however, because it can absorb herbicide.
- Wait for calm: Winds more than 8 miles per hour are too strong to control herbicide spray.
- Wash afterward: After applying the product, wash hands and any other exposed skin. Change into clean clothes after application.
- Walk backward: Rather than walking forward over a newly sprayed lawn, which virtually guarantees getting the herbicide on clothing and shoes, walk backward to reduce the risk of contact with the product.
- Wait: While it’s frustrating to spray for dandelions and then see them looking healthy and robust the next day, many herbicides take a few days to work. Depending on the product, it may take up to two weeks.
- Stay off: Different products advise users to keep pets, kids, and adults off the lawn until the herbicide no longer poses a health risk, which could be a couple of hours or a few days.
To qualify as a top pick, a dandelion killer is effective at eradicating the weed, relatively simple to use, and comes with easy-to-follow instructions. The following broadleaf herbicides are all made to control dandelions, and each is well suited to various weed-killing situations.
Photo: amazon.com
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Kill dandelions, reduce new weeds, and fertilize the lawn, all in one fell swoop with Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action herbicide. This granulated broadleaf weed killer also contains a crabgrass preventer, which prevents crabgrass from spreading in the lawn for up to four months, and a nitrogen-rich fertilizer that bolsters grass to make it healthy and lush.
This all-purpose weed killer comes in granules in a 20-pound bag, sufficient for treating up to 4,000 square feet of lawn. Safe for use on Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescue, it may not be safe on lawns that contain creeping-type grasses such as St. Augustine and centipede grass.
For best results, apply Scotts Turf Builder with a push-type broadcast spreader or seeder in late spring or early summer.
Pros
- Made with a broadleaf, nitrogen-rich weed killer and included fertilizer
- Prevents crabgrass and weeds
- Covers up to 4,000 square feet
- Compatible with many grass types
Cons
- Not intended for extra-large lawns
- Should be used with spreader or seeder
- Expensive
Photo: amazon.com
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Compare-N-Save 2-4-D Amine Broadleaf Weed Killer comes in a 1-quart jug of concentrated liquid that can treat up to 43,280 square feet of lawn. It not only kills dandelions but also other broadleaf weeds, without harming the grass. It works best when applied in the spring when dandelions and other weeds are still small and tender. After at least 30 days or more have passed since the first application, it can be reapplied once more per year.
This selective herbicide, while safe for most lawns, should not be used on creeping grasses such as St. Augustine, centipede grass, or bentgrass lawns.
Pros
- Selective herbicide mix; kills over 150 weed types
- Covers over 43,000 square feet
- Only one or two applications per year required
- Lightweight
Cons
- Suitable for springtime use
- Not compatible with all grass types
Photo: amazon.com
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Kill dandelions in yards up to 15,000 square feet with GreenView Weed & Feed Broadleaf Weed Control Plus Lawn Food. This selective herbicide comes in a 39-pound bag of granules (other sizes may be available), and a single application kills more than 250 types of broadleaf plants.
GreenView Weed & Feed also stimulates healthy grass growth, making lawns more resistant to heat and drought. The product can be applied safely with a broadcast spreader to most grass types, but it should not be used on St. Augustine, dichondra, or carpetgrass lawns.
Pros
- Selective herbicide mix; kills over 250 weed types
- Promotes grass growth
- Covers over 15,000 square feet
- Lasts for up to 8 weeks
Cons
- Not compatible with all grass types
- Heavyweight bag
- Expensive
Best Dandelion Killer BioAdvanced
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For quick and easy weed eradication without mixing or measuring, this BioAdvanced Selective Herbicide comes in a handy 29-ounce bottle. The concentrated BioAdvanced formula kills existing weeds on contact and prevents new weed seeds from sprouting for up to six months.
The bottle attaches to a standard garden hose connection. Its one-touch sprayer makes it easy to adjust the water pressure and pattern. Apply the product up to twice per year, optimally in spring and again in fall when temperatures are between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. BioAdvanced will not harm lawns, and it’s suitable for use on sensitive grass varieties, including St. Augustine, zoysia, and Bermuda grass.
Pros
- 2-in-1 formula to kill and prevent weeds
- Effective for up to six months
- Easy-to-use spray attachment
- Doesn’t harm lawns
Cons
- May cause damage in temperatures above 90 degrees
Chosen for its broadleaf and nitrogen-rich weed-killing mixture, compatibility with many grass types, and coverage of up to 4,000 square feet, the Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action is our top pick for best dandelion killer. Not only does this mixture come with added fertilizer for new grass growth, it also prevents crabgrass and other weeds from resprouting.
For something that covers more ground and has strong weed-killing power, the Compare-N-Save option can cover over 43,000 square feet and only requires one or two applications per year to kill over 150 weed types. Plus, this mix is lightweight for easy spreading.
How We Chose the Best Dandelion KillersHaving the perfect lawn comes with using a strong and effective dandelion and weed killer. All of the above top picks are made to successfully kill weeds and prevent new growth, are easy to use and spread, and even aid in healthy grass growth.
Made with selective herbicides, nitrogen-rich mixes, or natural vinegar, each of our top picks kills hundreds of known weed types. Some also incorporate fertilizers that aid in growing new grass. Though some of these mixes are meant to be applied with a spreader, seeder, or sprayer, each is easy to use and some only require one or two applications for long-term weed prevention.
Plus, most of these mixes are made to be compatible with many types of grass. Be advised, however, that some of these mixes are not suitable for use on certain grass types and contain chemicals that may not be safe for pets and children.
Additionally, some of these top picks can kill all vegetation they come in contact with, so careful application is recommended.
FAQsBroadleaf herbicides can help keep a lawn free from dandelions, but you may have some questions about whether the products are safe for yards, humans, pets, and the environment.
The best dandelion killer is one that fits your family’s lifestyle while helping keep the lawn weed-free. Below are answers to some of the most popular questions about dandelion killers.
Q. Why should I remove dandelions from my lawn?Dandelions won’t harm the soil; in fact, their deep roots can help prevent erosion on sloped areas. However, a few dandelions this summer can turn into hundreds next summer. Because they detract from the look of a lush lawn and they spread so quickly, the best way to keep them out of a lawn is to get rid of them when they first appear.
Q. Are dandelion killers safe?It depends on the product. Natural and organic herbicides are safe for the environment, but they may still pose health risks to pets and humans. Chemical herbicides also may pose health risks during application and until the chemicals are absorbed in the soil. The verdict is still out as to whether chemical herbicides pose a substantial risk to the environment when used as directed, but to minimize risk, use them with caution.
Q. How do I kill dandelions but not the grass in my garden?The best method is to use a selective broadleaf herbicide that will kill the dandelions but will not harm the lawn. Read the product’s label before applying it to ensure it’s safe for specific species of grass.
information articles from the company "August"
Spring is in the air. And along with the spring warmth, the first dandelions appear on the roadsides, lawns and lawns. On the one hand, it is one of the earliest plants, which pleases the eye with its bright yellow color, and on the other hand, it is the most tenacious weed, with a very high ability to regenerate. Numerous dandelion seeds are quickly dispersed by the wind, sowing vast areas and growing rapidly. Gardeners and summer residents have to fight with them for many years. For this struggle to be successful, you need to know the characteristics of the plant, as well as be very attentive and painstaking, since even a small remnant of the root is enough for a new rosette of leaves to grow from it.
Plant growth characteristics
Dandelion is a perennial herb with feathery leaves and bright yellow flowers. After flowering, seeds appear with "parachutes", which are picked up by the wind and scatter over long distances. These very tenacious weeds reproduce quickly, especially in moist soil, seeds appear from early summer to late autumn. Once in the soil, the dandelion is deeply rooted in it. It is known that the main root of the weed can reach 60 cm. Appearing on cultivated beds, flower beds, lawns, they cause a lot of inconvenience to site owners. Their developed and powerful root system is able to consume a large amount of nutrients and moisture from the soil, taking them from plants growing nearby. This feature of dandelions interferes with the growth and development of other crops. In addition, a dense rosette of weed leaves obscures the sunlight to the sprouts of cultivated plants.
Useful properties of dandelions
A tenacious ubiquitous weed, however, also has useful properties. In folk medicine, dandelion roots, leaves and flowers are used, medicinal decoctions and infusions are prepared from them. Dandelions have powerful antioxidant and immunostimulating properties, have anti-inflammatory, expectorant, sedative, and choleretic effects. They contain vitamins K, C, E, PP and group B, this is the record holder for the content of beta-carotene and vitamin A. Dandelions are also rich in minerals (potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, calcium) and trace elements (copper, zinc, manganese, selenium). It contains phytoncides, tannins, organic acids and other valuable components. By autumn, a large amount of inulin, which is necessary for diabetes, accumulates in the roots. Dandelion is also used in cooking, even a special variety has been bred, in the leaves of which there is no bitterness. Tender young leaves are added to soups and salads, jam is made from flowers.
Mechanical dandelion control
Bright yellow flowers are very good in a clearing unused by man. But their appearance in the beds or flower beds does not cause joy for the owner of the site. When this malicious weed appears, only one question arises - how to get rid of dandelions? It should be understood that this is not an easy task, it is unlikely that it will be possible to remove them once and for all. The seeds of flowering plants will be blown by the wind from a neighbor's plot or from the road and will grow even in the most unfavorable soil conditions. In addition, this is a very tenacious, perfectly regenerating plant, even a small piece of the root left in the ground is able to give a new shoot. Therefore, the fight against them must be carried out throughout the year until the next winter. It should be remembered: the most important thing in the fight against dandelions is regularity.
Prophylaxis . First of all, you need to do everything so that dandelions do not appear on the site. To do this, in the spring, the beds are deeply dug up and mulched or a protective film is used. If empty plots of land remain in the country, you need to sow them with at least grass to make it difficult for seeds to germinate. Another deep digging should be done in the fall. These measures will significantly reduce the likelihood of dandelions, but they will not provide complete protection. If the weed has already sprouted, it must be destroyed. For this, agrotechnical and herbicidal methods of control are used.
Agrotechnical . If there are few weeds, you can try to cope with them by regular mowing. This method is suitable if the dandelions have not yet bloomed. Use a lawn mower, trimmer, or simple scythe. When choosing this method, it is worth remembering that the growth of a dandelion stops if, at the time of removal of the plant, its growth point, which is located at ground level, is removed. Otherwise, the weed will grow back and bloom with renewed vigor. Another way is to dig up the dandelion along with the root. To do this, you can use a regular shovel or a special tool for removing weeds.
Dandelion chemicals
Herbicides. Unfortunately, agrotechnical control methods do not give a 100% guarantee of getting rid of weeds. Therefore, it is believed that it is more expedient to use herbicides in confronting dandelions. Their use makes the process more efficient and reduces the processing time.
- Lawn Weed Deimos . It is an effective selective herbicide that will kill dandelions and other weeds without damaging lawn grass. A modern agent quickly penetrates both into the ground parts of the plant and into the root system, effectively stopping its growth. Within one to two weeks, the results of processing will be noticeable, and after 15-30 days, depending on climatic conditions, the weeds will be completely destroyed. One spraying of vegetative plants with a solution of the drug is enough to rid your site of unwanted "guests". The spray solution is prepared according to the instructions, for the convenience of customers, the product is sold in different packaging - 10 ml, 40 ml, 500 ml. You can significantly increase the effectiveness of "Deimos" by adding the drug "Adyu".
- Deimos+Miura® . The vitality of weeds creates problems in the fight against them. Specialists of the company "August" have developed an effective complex of two herbicides that complement and enhance each other's action. The combination of two preparations stimulates the active penetration of active ingredients into weed tissues, inhibiting their growth and causing complete death. The validity period depends on climatic conditions and the degree of development of weeds, but it will take no more than a month after treatment to get rid of them. The effectiveness of the kit is proven for more than 90 weeds, including dandelions. The drug that got into the soil decomposes during the growing season. It is of low toxicity, but when preparing the solution and spraying, it is necessary to observe the precautions recommended by the instructions.
- Lazurit® . This selective herbicide is designed to kill weeds when they germinate in potato and tomato beds. Causing the death of seedlings, "Lazurit" prevents the possibility of reproduction and spread of the weed. The main volume of the drug penetrates into plants through the root system, but is also able to be absorbed through the leaves. Treatment with a herbicide solution immediately after planting potatoes protects the area from the appearance of dandelions and other weeds for one to two months. The drug is effective against 50 species of weeds. Spraying the site should be carried out in calm weather, in the absence of bright sun, early in the morning or in the evening. The procedure for preparing the solution is described in detail in the instructions, as well as the necessary precautions. The drug is sold in packages of 10 g and 20 g.
- Magnum® . It is used in areas where crops are not planned to be planted. An effective fast-acting preparation penetrates the weed tissues in just 4 hours, exerting a depressing effect on the growth and reproduction processes. The active components of the solution are able to be absorbed into all parts of the plant - leaves, stem, root system. "Magnum" destroys seedlings and causes the death of already grown weeds. Depending on the weather and the growth phase of the treated plants, their complete death occurs after 15-25 days. The protective effect of the herbicide persists for six months. The rules for preparing the solution, the procedure for processing weeds and the necessary safety measures are described in detail in the manufacturer's instructions. To increase efficiency, it is recommended to add Adyu to the Magnum solution.
Getting rid of weeds is a prerequisite for a well-groomed site. The company "August", a leading manufacturer of plant protection products, recommends reliable and effective products of its own production to protect flower beds, lawns, beds from dandelions. Herbicides from "August" are modern scientific developments, high quality, attractive packaging design, convenient packaging and budget prices. You can find the list of partner stores of the company on the page of our website "Where to buy?".
How to get rid of dandelions on the lawn? Fight against dandelions.
The main problem in the fight against dandelions on the lawn is the flowering of the plant. After you notice the yellow flowers blooming, the count goes on for days - you need to try with all your might to prevent the yellow flower from turning into a white seed inflorescence. Otherwise, a slight breeze will spread weeds and you will have to get rid of dandelions on the lawn again.
Timely mowing of grass will help against dandelions on the lawn - by removing flowering shoots, you will prevent the appearance and spread of seeds.
Fighting dandelions on the lawn also involves timely care of the lawn - during the active growth of the lawn, you need to constantly mow the grass, leaving a height of 6-8 cm. It is this cutting height that is optimal - in addition to removing weed flowers, you get protection from rooting seeds dandelion.
Lawn dandelion control
There are many different remedies for dandelions on the lawn. All of them can be divided into several large groups:
- Mechanical removal. This is the most effective remedy for dandelions on the lawn, however, it does not always bring good results - the dandelion root is not easy to get completely, so after a while the plant will be able to resume its growth.
- Fighting dandelions on the lawn using "folk methods" and improvised means. There are some home remedies that will help you get rid of this weed. But, unfortunately, such a process is lengthy and unsafe - you only need to act on the weed, otherwise the rest of the plants that are in the affected radius may also die
- Using a special dandelion herbicide on lawns. You can purchase such products in our store - they are completely safe for humans and animals and allow you to quickly and without any hassle get rid of weeds on the lawn, while maintaining its original appearance. Carefully calibrated and proven formula quickly inhibits the vital activity of the weed and prevents its spread.
Each remedy for dandelions on the lawn has its own advantages, but relying on only one method is not worth it - you need an integrated approach to solving the problem.
How to remove dandelions from the lawn with improvised means
How to deal with dandelions on the lawn if the attack caught you far outside the city, and there are no specialized stores with herbicides in the area?
We offer you several ways to get rid of dandelions in the lawn.
The first and most important step is weed removal. The main rule of successful dandelion control is the complete removal of the plant. To do this, you need to remove not only the green part, but also the root. It is the roots that often cause the re-emergence of dandelions. To properly remove dandelions from the lawn, you need to follow a few simple steps:
- If the ground is dry, the lawn needs to be watered abundantly. Wet will allow you to easily pull out even long roots.
- Often clayey and rather dense soil sets in a crust through which it is impossible to pull out the weed. In this case, before watering, you need to carefully but gently loosen the soil around the dandelion.
- To stir the root, you can use a special long and narrow spatula. With the help of this tool, the weed is carefully undermined from several sides.
- To pull out a weed, you need to wrap your hand around it (it is better to grab the entire bunch) and gently pull. If the dandelion doesn't work, repeat the previous steps and try again.
- After the weed has been removed, the soil should be leveled and the lawn area inspected for major damage so that action can be taken to restore the lawn in time.
Against dandelions on the lawn, various remedies that can be found in every home will also help:
- Scald with boiling water. This dandelion lawn remedy is one of the most common. Water the plant several times a day with boiling water and in a few days it will die.
- Spraying with vinegar is also common. However, it is worth noting that the method is very unsafe for grass - it is better to combine spraying with weeding. It is necessary to fill the hole formed after the weed in order to destroy the remaining roots.
- Sprinkle with salt. The recipe for fighting is simple - a tablespoon of salt per weed. It is important to sprinkle only dandelions, otherwise neighboring plants may die.
All of the above means (except weeding) must be used with caution and take into account the type of lawn - if the universal coating steadfastly survives watering with boiling water and spraying with vinegar, then decorative delicate lawns may die.