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10 Best Lawn Insect Killers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Scotts GrubEx1 Season Long Grub Killer, Protects Lawns Up to 4 Months, 5,000 sq. ft., 14.35 lbs.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,468
Type of Insect Killer
Residual Effect
Application Method

Most important from
10864 reviews

Type of Insect Killer
This product effectively eliminates grubs and other pests, improving lawn health and reducing mole activity.
Residual Effect
Consistent annual use is planned by users who have seen significant improvements in their lawn's condition.
Application Method
Application is straightforward, but be cautious of potential leaks during shipment, as it can make a mess if not handled carefully.

The Scotts GrubEx1 Season Long Grub Killer targets various lawn pests, including grubs, armyworms, chinchbugs, and Japanese beetles. Its active ingredient, Chlorantraniliprole, is effective in both killing existing insects and preventing new infestations for up to 4 months. This makes it a strong choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lawn with minimal effort throughout the season.

The product is applied in granular form, which makes it easy to distribute evenly over a dry lawn in the spring or early summer. With a coverage area of up to 5,000 sq. ft. per 14.35 lb. bag, it offers good value for medium to large-sized lawns.

One potential drawback is that the product needs to be applied correctly during the early development stages of grubs for maximum effectiveness. If timing or distribution is off, the results may not be as satisfactory. Additionally, the weight of the bag might be cumbersome for some users to handle. This product is ideal for homeowners looking for a season-long solution to lawn pests with a relatively simple application process.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,468
Type of Insect Killer
Residual Effect
Application Method

Most important from
10864 reviews

Type of Insect Killer
This product effectively eliminates grubs and other pests, improving lawn health and reducing mole activity.
Residual Effect
Consistent annual use is planned by users who have seen significant improvements in their lawn's condition.
Application Method
Application is straightforward, but be cautious of potential leaks during shipment, as it can make a mess if not handled carefully.
#2

Ortho BugClear Lawn Insect Killer1, Kills Ants, Spiders, Ticks, Fleas, Armyworms and Grubs, Treats up to 16,500 sq. ft., 10 lb.

Rating
9.6
Type of Insect Killer
Active Ingredients
Residual Effect

Most important from
2814 reviews

Type of Insect Killer
As a former pest control professional, I can confirm Bifenthrin's effectiveness against a wide range of insects, especially in turf grass.
Active Ingredients
Ortho BugClear is one of the best values for Bifenthrin, offering nearly double the active ingredient compared to competing products, making it highly cost-effective.
Residual Effect
This product not only kills bugs on contact but also keeps working, effectively driving moles away by eliminating their food source.

The Ortho BugClear Lawn Insect Killer1 is designed to target a wide range of common lawn pests such as ants, spiders, ticks, fleas, grubs, beetles, and armyworms. It effectively kills these insects on contact and offers extended control, lasting up to 6 months against ants (excluding certain species like pharaoh, carpenter, and harvester ants). One of its major strengths is its broad coverage area, able to treat up to 16,500 square feet, making it suitable for larger lawns and garden spaces.

The product comes in a 10-pound container and is applied using a Scotts Spreader, which many homeowners already have or can easily obtain. After application, it needs to be watered in, which helps to activate the granules and ensures effective pest control. Additionally, it can be used around ornamental plants, home perimeters, flower beds, and certain vegetable plants, adding to its versatility.

It is important to note that its effectiveness for 6 months is specifically mentioned for ants, and other insects may not be controlled for as long. While it is generally safe for use around pets and children once it has been properly applied and watered in, it is always advisable to keep them away from the treated area until it dries completely. Potential buyers should be aware of the specific ant species it cannot control and ensure proper application to maximize its effectiveness.

Rating
9.6
Type of Insect Killer
Active Ingredients
Residual Effect

Most important from
2814 reviews

Type of Insect Killer
As a former pest control professional, I can confirm Bifenthrin's effectiveness against a wide range of insects, especially in turf grass.
Active Ingredients
Ortho BugClear is one of the best values for Bifenthrin, offering nearly double the active ingredient compared to competing products, making it highly cost-effective.
Residual Effect
This product not only kills bugs on contact but also keeps working, effectively driving moles away by eliminating their food source.
#3

Spectracide Concentrate Triazicide Lawn & Landscapes Insect Killer, 40 oz, Black

Rating
9.4
Type of Insect Killer
Residual Effect
Safety for Pets and Children

Most important from
10020 reviews

Type of Insect Killer
Works wonders on stubborn pests like moths and crickets, providing visible results quickly.
Residual Effect
Although highly effective, may need reapplication every two months for sustained protection.
Safety for Pets and Children
Requires careful handling and proper application to avoid misuse and maximize safety.

The Spectracide Concentrate Triazicide Lawn & Landscapes Insect Killer is designed for outdoor use around the home, addressing a wide range of lawn-damaging insects. One of its key strengths is its effectiveness, capable of controlling over 260 different types of insects, including ants, crickets, and armyworms. The product offers season-long protection, lasting up to three months, which reduces the need for frequent reapplications and provides long-lasting peace of mind.

With a coverage area of up to 6,400 square feet, it's suitable for medium to large lawns, making it a practical choice for many homeowners. The active ingredient, Gamma Cyhalothrin, is known for its potency in killing insects. However, the product needs to be mixed with water and applied as a spray, which may require some effort and adherence to instructions for optimal results.

Safety-wise, it is reassuring to know that once the treated area is dry, children and pets can safely return to the lawn. On the downside, users should handle the product with care during application to avoid exposure to the concentrated chemicals. If you're looking for a powerful and long-lasting insect killer for your lawn and can manage the application process, this product could be a good fit.

Rating
9.4
Type of Insect Killer
Residual Effect
Safety for Pets and Children

Most important from
10020 reviews

Type of Insect Killer
Works wonders on stubborn pests like moths and crickets, providing visible results quickly.
Residual Effect
Although highly effective, may need reapplication every two months for sustained protection.
Safety for Pets and Children
Requires careful handling and proper application to avoid misuse and maximize safety.

Buying Guide for the Best Lawn Insect Killers

Choosing the right lawn insect killer can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge, you can make an informed decision that will keep your lawn healthy and pest-free. The key is to understand the different specifications and how they align with your specific needs. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a lawn insect killer.
Type of Insect KillerLawn insect killers come in various forms such as sprays, granules, and concentrates. Sprays are easy to apply and are great for targeting specific areas. Granules are spread over the lawn and are ideal for larger areas, providing long-lasting protection. Concentrates need to be mixed with water and are suitable for treating large infestations. Choose the type based on the size of your lawn and the severity of the infestation.
Active IngredientsThe active ingredient in an insect killer determines its effectiveness against specific pests. Common active ingredients include Bifenthrin, Carbaryl, and Permethrin. Bifenthrin is effective against a wide range of insects, Carbaryl is good for targeting beetles and grubs, and Permethrin is effective against mosquitoes and ticks. Identify the pests you are dealing with and choose a product with an active ingredient that targets those insects.
Coverage AreaCoverage area refers to the amount of lawn that can be treated with one package of the insect killer. This is usually measured in square feet. If you have a large lawn, look for products that offer extensive coverage to ensure you have enough product to treat the entire area. For smaller lawns, a product with a smaller coverage area will suffice. Measure your lawn to determine the coverage you need.
Residual EffectThe residual effect is the duration of time the insect killer remains effective after application. Some products offer immediate results but have a short residual effect, while others provide long-lasting protection for several weeks or months. If you prefer not to reapply frequently, choose a product with a longer residual effect. Consider how often you are willing to treat your lawn when making your decision.
Safety for Pets and ChildrenIf you have pets or children who frequently play on the lawn, it is important to choose an insect killer that is safe for them. Look for products labeled as pet and child-friendly, which are formulated to minimize risks. Always follow the application instructions carefully to ensure safety. Consider the safety of your family and pets when selecting a product.
Application MethodThe application method can vary between products. Some insect killers require a spreader, while others can be applied with a hose-end sprayer or a simple pump sprayer. Choose a method that you are comfortable with and that suits the size of your lawn. If you prefer a quick and easy application, look for products that come with an applicator. Consider your comfort and convenience when choosing the application method.

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