10 Best Crabgrass Killers 2025 in the United States

Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer is a pre-emergent weed killer designed to prevent crabgrass and other grassy weeds from germinating in your lawn. One of the standout features is its broad spectrum of effectiveness, targeting various weeds such as foxtail, spurge, and barnyardgrass, which makes it a reliable choice for homeowners looking to maintain a healthy lawn. It is suitable for all grass types, adding to its versatility, although it should not be used on Dichondra or Bentgrass. With a coverage of up to 10,000 square feet, this 20.12 lb bag offers good value for larger lawns.

A notable strength is its ease of application; you can apply it in early spring or fall, and it remains effective even after rain or frost, which can be a significant advantage for those who may not have ideal weather conditions.

On the flip side, while the product is effective, it is essential to apply it at the right time for maximum benefits, which may require some attention to local weather conditions and timing. Additionally, being a pre-emergent killer means it won't address existing weeds, so if you have crabgrass already growing, you'll need a different solution for that. The environmental impact is another consideration; some users prefer organic options, and while this product is effective, it does use chemical ingredients. Thus, it may not align with all users' preferences for eco-friendly lawn care.

Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1 is a versatile product that serves as a weed killer, crabgrass preventer, and lawn fertilizer, making it suitable for homeowners looking to maintain a healthy lawn. One of its key strengths is its three-in-one formula, which not only targets various common weeds like dandelions and clover but also provides essential nutrients to encourage thick, green grass. It effectively prevents crabgrass for up to four months, allowing you to enjoy a weed-free lawn during the growing season.

This product is compatible with several types of grass, including Kentucky Bluegrass and Bermudagrass, making it a flexible option for diverse lawns. The application method is straightforward: you apply it to a wet lawn using a Scotts spreader and water it in, which is user-friendly for homeowners.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. One limitation is that it does not kill existing crabgrass, so it’s most effective as a preventive measure rather than a solution for an already infested lawn. Additionally, it can only be used in specific states, excluding places like Alaska and Hawaii, which could limit its availability for some users. The product also requires careful timing, as it's best applied in spring when weeds are actively growing, which may require some planning. In terms of environmental impact, while Scotts products are generally formulated to be effective, some users may prefer organic options. Lastly, the granule form means you’ll need a spreader for even application, which might not be readily available for everyone. This product is ideal for homeowners looking for an efficient way to manage weeds while nurturing their lawns, but those with existing crabgrass problems may need to seek additional solutions.

Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & FeedF2 is designed specifically for southern lawns, effectively targeting various weeds including crabgrass, while also feeding the grass to promote healthy growth. One notable strength of this product is its dual action; it not only kills existing weeds but also helps to thicken the grass, which can naturally prevent future weed growth. This makes it an excellent choice for homeowners in Florida looking to maintain a lush lawn. The product is formulated for specific grass types such as St. Augustine, Centipede, Zoysiagrass, and Carpetgrass, ensuring compatibility and optimized results for these varieties.

The application is straightforward, but it does require watering in immediately after use, which might be seen as a minor hassle for some users. Coverage is impressive at 10,000 sq. ft. per bag, making it a cost-effective option for larger lawns.

On the downside, this product is tailored for certain grass types, limiting its use for homeowners with different lawn varieties. There’s also the environmental consideration; while it promotes a healthier lawn, chemical fertilizers and weed killers can raise concerns for those focused on organic gardening. Lastly, as with any chemical treatment, there is a need for proper storage and safety precautions, especially if there are pets or children in the vicinity.