Best Crabgrass Killers: Buyer’s Guide

If you are looking for the best crabgrass killer for your lawn, the most important factors to consider are the ingredients, application method, and duration of effects. With these in mind, I handpicked my favorite products. Read on below to learn more about them and why they matter.

A lawn makes a first impression. Personally I try my best to make sure my lawn is perfectly trimmed, manicured and presentable. After all, it is one of the first things a guest will see when they visit my home. However, like most homeowners, I have struggled at times with keeping my yard free of weeds (and sparse patches).

After some troubleshooting and lots of research, I learned that some of my lawn issues were caused by crabgrass, which often happens in warm weather conditions. If you’re also dealing with crabgrass issues, fortunately, there are several ways to get rid of it.

Below, I listed the best crabgrass killers and prevention products that I’ve found. Each product includes a detailed review as well as pros and cons, so you can easily compare them with one another.

I also discuss the most important factors to consider before buying a crabgrass killer. Finally, I’ll cover some frequently asked questions about crabgrass and lawn maintenance.

A Quick Comparison of The Best Crabgrass Killer

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Dimensions: 6 x 9 x 14.38 inches
  • Weight: 25.1 pounds
  • Brand: RM43
View On Amazon →Read Our Review
  • Dimensions: 14.5 x 11.5 x 13.5 inches
  • Weight: 13 pounds
  • Brand: Preen
View On Amazon →Read Our Review
  • Dimensions: 4.25 x 7.5 x 11.88 inches
  • Weight: 9.65 Pounds
  • Brand: Compare-N-Save
View On Amazon →Read Our Review
  • Dimensions: 2.5 x 2 x 4.5 inches
  • Weight: 0.5 Pounds
  • Brand: Syngenta
View On Amazon →Read Our Review
  • Dimensions: 8.5 x 4.5 x 11 inches
  • Weight: 20.16 Pounds
  • Brand: Scotts
View On Amazon →Read Our Review
  • Dimensions: ‎ 8 x 4 x 9 inches
  • Weight: 9.5 Pounds
  • Brand: Doctor Kirchner
View On Amazon →Read Our Review
  • Dimensions: 4.7 x 2.8 x 10.3 inches
  • Weight: 2.65 Pounds
  • Brand: BioAdvanced
View On Amazon →Read Our Review

7 Best Crabgrass Killers and Preventers to Improve Your Lawn

Below are the best crabgrass killers and preventers. Each product can help control the growth of crabgrass and weeds, so you can keep your garden or lawn beautiful.

1. RM43 Crabgrass Killer – Editor’s Pick

RM43 Crabgrass Killer

The first product on our list is the RM43 Crabgrass Killer.

This crabgrass control solution uses a combination of two herbicides and surfactants, specifically glyphosate and imazapyr. This solution kills weeds and crabgrass to the root, which ultimately keeps your lawn free from unwanted growth. At the same time, it can prevent weeds from growing for up to a year.

Additionally, this crabgrass killer is safe for people and pets. It can rainfast in under two hours, and it does not restrict you from entering sprayed areas. 

Furthermore, a 2.5-gallon container can treat a wide area of up to 43,243 square feet. So whether you want to control bare ground or spot treat vines or bushes, this crabgrass killer can meet your needs. It is ideal for barns, farm buildings, parking areas, and sidewalks.

Most importantly, reviews for this product were positive. Customers praised how it easily kills crabgrass.

However, there are still several cons to consider. First, some users noticed that it takes some time for it to eliminate weeds completely. Second, a few said that this crabgrass killer really did not prevent pests from growing back.

But as you can see, the pros far outweigh the cons. For this reason, I deemed the RM43 Crabgrass Killer as the best crabgrass killer. 

Pros:

  • Two herbicides and surfactants can instantly remove crabgrass and weeds
  • Effective crabgrass killer can prevent unwanted growth for up to a year
  • A wide coverage area of up to 43,243 feet
  • It dries quickly and is deemed safe for children and pets
  • Ideal for spot control or total vegetation control

Cons:

  • Some customers said that it takes a few days to kill the weeds completely
  • A few also noticed that this crabgrass killer does not prevent weeds from growing back

2. Preen 13lbs Crabgrass Killer – Runner-Up

Preen 13lbs Crabgrass Killer

If you are looking for a crabgrass killer that is safe for edible plants, consider investing in the Preen 13lbs Crabgrass Killer

It uses safe chemicals that do not harm edible plants. It also does not damage established flowers, shrubs, trees, and vegetables. Instead, this crabgrass preventer simply stops weeds before they start to grow.

Additionally, the Preen Crabgrass Killer can cover a wide range of areas up to 2,080 square feet. So whether you want to eliminate the weeds on your whole lawn or spot treat an area, this product might be more than enough to meet your needs.

Moreover, it is compatible for use during spring, summer, and fall. There is no need to worry about the seasons when managing your lawn or garden.

However, before buying this crabgrass killer, it is essential to know its downsides. First, it requires you to remove all existing grasses and weeds before applying the chemical solution. Second, some users were disappointed that it does not come with a proper applicator.

Nevertheless, I still think the Preen 13lbs Crabgrass Killer is still among the best crabgrass preventers on the market today.

Pros:

  • Safe chemicals do not harm edible plants
  • It is safe to use for over 200 species of flowers, vegetables, and shrubs
  • A wide coverage area of up to 2,080 square feet is ideal for treating your whole lawn and selected spots
  • It is compatible for use during different seasons

Cons:

  • It requires you to remove existing grasses and weeds before using the product
  • Some users said that this crabgrass killer does not come with a proper applicator

3. Compare-N-Save 1Gal Crabgrass Killer

Compare-N-Save 1Gal Crabgrass Killer

Those who want to see visible results instantly can consider buying the Compare-N-Save 1Gal Crabgrass Killer

It contains 41% glyphosate, which is a post-emergent herbicide that treats areas filled with crabgrass or weeds. It can eliminate these pests from the root, which gives you a more improved lawn or garden.

In addition, this crabgrass killer can give you visible results in as little as two to four days. So if you wish to revamp your lawn instantly or are simply impatient, this product is worth considering. 

What’s more, the Compare-N-Save Crabgrass Killer is rainproof for up to two hours. Thus, there is no need to worry about the weather if you are going to use this product outdoors.

On top of all these benefits, the 85-gallon spray can cover over 25,000 square feet. Therefore, it is ideal for large lawns or gardens as well as small, compact spaces.

However, it is best to check its downsides before buying it. First, some users said that they have difficulties preparing the chemical solution for spraying. Second, a few customers were disappointed that they have to use a lot of the product to kill crabgrass and weeds in their lawn.  

Overall, though, the Compare-N-Save Crabgrass Killer is still among the best products on the market due to its instant results.

Pros:

  • It gives you visible results in as short as two to four days
  • Post-emergent herbicide with 41% glyphosate content can effectively kill crabgrass and weeds
  • Wide 25,000 square feet coverage
  • Rainproof up to two hours to allow for all-season application

Cons:

  • The chemical solution is pretty difficult to prepare for successful spraying
  • Some users were disappointed that they have to use a lot of the product to kill crabgrass and weeds

4. Syngenta 8oz Crabgrass Killer

Syngenta 8oz Crabgrass Killer

Do you have a small garden and simply need a straightforward crabgrass killer? Then perhaps, the Syngenta 8oz Crabgrass Killer might meet your requirements.

It does not require any assembly or mixing preparation if you intend to use it. Instead, this crabgrass and weed killer allows you to apply it directly to any pests, including stubborn grassy weeds, growing in your garden.

Most importantly, it kills crabgrass and weeds at seedlings, owing to its 40% mesotrione active ingredient. This way, you can expect your lawn to flourish when you plant new grass seeds.

There is even an included applicator with measurements to help you calculate the right amount of product to use.

Finally, this crabgrass killer is designed for pre and post-emergence herbicide. It can effectively control up to 46 broadleaf weeds and grass species.

Despite these benefits, there are still a few cons to consider. For one, it is pretty expensive, especially for its product volume. A few users also said that the solution was difficult to dilute.

Nevertheless, the Syngenta 8oz Crabgrass Killer is still among the best crabgrass and weed killers on the market. I highly recommend this selective weed killer to those who simply need to treat a small area.

Pros:

  • 40% mesotrione kills crabgrass and weeds at seedlings
  • This good crabgrass killer eliminates up to 46 broadleaf weed and grass species
  • It does not require complicated assembly before applying this selective weed killer
  • The package includes an applicator to help you measure the right amount of the product

Cons:

  • Expensive product compared to competitors on the market
  • Some users had difficulty diluting the solution

5. Scotts 20lb Crabgrass Killer

Scotts 20lb Crabgrass Killer

If you primarily grow northern grasses, consider using the Scotts 20lb Crabgrass Killer on your lawn grass.

It is specifically formulated for use on Bahia grass, Bermuda, fine fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and other northern grass species.

However, this solution does not eliminate actively growing crabgrass. Instead, Scotts halts crabgrass and it can kill weeds, especially active broadleaf ones, when you apply it correctly.

The best way to use this crabgrass winter is during spring, when temperatures are consistently between 60°F and 80°F. The manufacturer also recommends applying the solution before the third or fourth mowing or when you see actively growing dandelions.

Another benefit that I like about this crabgrass and grassy weed preventer is its triple-action solution. Scotts halts crabgrass as well as kills and feeds them to help eliminate the pests on your lawn.

Furthermore, this crabgrass preventer offers both pre-emergent and post-emergent weed control. Just do not expect it to perform effectively on spurge.

Lastly, it can cover a wide area of up to 4,000 square feet. So whether you want to clear up a whole garden or target a specific spot on your lawn, this product is worth considering.

But before buying it, I highly suggest researching its cons. First, it strictly restricts people and pets from entering the treated areas until the dust has settled. Second, some users said that it does not kill clover and dandelions. 

After considering its advantages, though, I still think the Scotts 20lb Turf Builder Triple Action is among the best crabgrass preventers on the market.

Pros:

  • The triple-action solution can feed, prevent, and kill weeds on your plants
  • It is ideal for northern grasses like Bahia, Bermuda, and fescue, among other species
  • Pre-emergent and post-emergent weed and crabgrass control
  • Wide coverage of up to 4,000 square feet

Cons:

  • It restricts people and pets from entering the treated area
  • A few users noticed that the solution does not work on clover and dandelions

6. Doctor Kirchner 1Gal Crabgrass Killer

Doctor Kirchner 1Gal Crabgrass Killer

Those who prefer using an environmental-friendly solution can consider investing in the Doctor Kirchner 1Gal Crabgrass Killer.

It uses a combination of ocean saltwater, food-grade vinegar, and soap to eliminate crabgrass and weeds. This product does not contain glyphosate and other hormone-disrupting chemicals. Thus, it is 100% safe to use around children and pets.

Additionally, this natural crabgrass and weed killer instantly destroys weeds and other pests on your lawn. It can wither weeds in just a few hours, but it can take up to 12 to 24 hours for grassy weeds to turn brown. Nevertheless, it leaves you with a new and replenished lawn ready for planting new grass seeds.

Moreover, this natural weed killer features an eco-friendly jug that contains less plastic. It even features a no-glug pouring spout to minimize accidental spillages.

Finally, this one-gallon solution can last you for a long time. It has a shelf life of four years, so there is no need to worry about finishing it up quickly. 

Despite these advantages, it is still best to consider its cons. First, it can possibly kill your healthy lawn alongside the weeds. Second, some users said that it only covers a small area of plants.

However, if you are planning to refurbish your whole garden, I still recommend this product. Overall, the Doctor Kirchner 1Gal Crabgrass Killer is among the best crabgrass killers on the market today.

Pros:

  • Natural crabgrass killer is safe for children, pets, and the environment
  • A fast-action solution can remove weeds in just a few hours
  • Eco-friendly just with a no-glug pouring spout to prevent accidental spillages
  • A one-gallon container can last up to four years 

Cons:

  • It kills both grass and weeds, which is not ideal if you simply want to eliminate pests
  • Some users said that it has a small area coverage

7. BioAdvanced 40oz Crabgrass Killer

BioAdvanced 40oz Crabgrass Killer

The last product on this list is the BioAdvanced 40oz Crabgrass Killer.

It features an all-in-one formula that can eliminate crabgrass and weeds to the root without damaging the lawn grass. This crabgrass killer and weed preventer removes over 200 broadleaf weeds, such as clover and dandelion.

Plus, this effective solution can treat a wide area of up to 5,000 square feet. So whether you want to control unwanted weed growth in your whole lawn or a small garden, this crabgrass killer is worth considering.

Furthermore, it is rainproof for up to an hour. Thus, there is no need to worry about unpredictable weather conditions when applying this good weed killer to your plants.

Finally, the package includes a unique EZ-grip one-touch sprayer to complement the ready-to-spray solution. This way, you can simply attach the garden hose to the bottle. You can then turn on the water and use your thumb to activate the spray. Once you are finished spraying, you can turn off the hose and detach it. 

However, before buying this crabgrass killer, it is best to know its downsides. First, some users reported that it did not work on some weed species, despite the promise of killing 200 broadleaf weeds. Second, a few customers complained that it took weeks to see visible results.

Nevertheless, the BioAdvanced 40oz Crabgrass Killer is still among the best solutions for crabgrass and weeds.

Pros:

  • All-in-one formula kills crabgrass and weeds to the root
  • The solution is rainproof for up to an hour
  • Wide coverage of up to 5,000 square feet
  • Hose-end sprayer application for convenience

Cons:

  • It does not kill other weeds
  • A few users said that it takes too much time to see visible results

How to Choose the Best Crabgrass Killer and Grassy Weed Preventer

By now, you probably have a basic idea about the best crabgrass killer on the market. However, if you are still unsure of which solution best suits your needs, fret not!

This crabgrass killer buying guide discusses the factors to consider before finalizing your purchasing decision.

Type of Crabgrass Killer

The first factor to consider when buying a crabgrass killer is to know its type.

Herbicides are available in either selective or nonselective solutions. The former can eliminate specific weed species, such as broadleaf and grassy weeds, without harming non-target plants, like your lawn.

Meanwhile, the latter can kill all types of plants. It is ideal if you intend to remove all plants on your lawn, including mulched tree rings or weeds on driveway cracks. It also gives you a new sod or flower bed to plant new grass seedlings, perfect for a landscape renovation.

But when in doubt, always read the labels. Some products that are called “grassy weed killer” may not necessarily control crabgrass. So it is best to ensure that the product can serve your intended purpose.

Formula

Another factor to think about is the formula.

Crabgrass killers can come in either dry granules or liquid sprays. The former is easy to apply using a lawn spreader. Plus, it has a relatively long shelf life as long as you store it in a cool and dry place until its subsequent use. Dry granule crabgrass killers are available in pre-emergent and post-emergent applications.

Meanwhile, liquid sprays are more convenient for those who plan to fix a large area or treat a specific spot. They are also safer as they do not require any mixing or preparation before the application. Thus, they help reduce your exposure to the chemical. Just be careful of the wind direction and speed because it can accidentally damage untargeted plants. 

Climate

It is also best to consider the climate or temperature levels where you live.

Some crabgrass killers cannot work effectively in cold climate locations. Most of them, especially post-emergent herbicides, perform well in warm temperatures.

I recommend using a crabgrass killer solution when the weeds are still actively growing. That means during the spring or summer when crabgrass seeds are germinating. 

Frequently Asked Questions

When should you apply crabgrass killer?

The best time to apply crabgrass pre-emergent is when the temperature is around 50°F. It can effectively kill the weeds to the roots since it is warm and not freezing.

As for the timing, it is best to check the manufacturer’s directions. Each product will differ slightly due to the ingredients and chemicals used.

How do you apply crabgrass killer?

Instructions are often included in the product manual. It is best to follow that because the manufacturer might include specific care or handle instructions.

However, applying crabgrass killer is relatively simple. You can treat the affected areas in the morning during a dry day. Treat the affected areas of the lawn and coat the crabgrass or weeds evenly.

Can rain wash away crabgrass pre-emergent?

Fortunately, rain does not wash away crabgrass pre-emergent. Instead, it activates the solution by transferring the solution further into the soil.

Just avoid digging and pulling the existing weeds once you apply the pre-emergent. Doing so can reduce the effectiveness of the product.

Conclusion

That sums up my top picks for the best crabgrass killer on the market! I highly recommend every product on this list.

But if I only have to suggest one, it would be the RM43 Crabgrass Killer. It uses two powerful herbicides and surfactants to kill crabgrass and weeds to the root. Additionally, it can cover a wide area of up to 42,243 feet, ideal for use on your whole lawn. Moreover, this best crabgrass killer is safe for children and pets and does not require restriction after spraying. 

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