As gardeners, we strive for a lush lawn and vibrant flowers, but the pesky appearance of dandelions can quickly undermine our efforts. These unwanted invaders can outcompete desired plants for water, nutrients, and sunlight, hindering their growth and overall health. Fortunately, with the right tools and techniques, you can effectively eliminate dandelions and restore your garden’s natural beauty.
The 10 Best Dandelion Killers
When it comes to tackling unwanted vegetation in your lawn, a reliable weed and feed product is essential.
Here are some top-rated options: Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed, Ortho Weed B Gon plus Crabgrass Control, PBI / Gordon Trimec Lawn Weed Killer, Bonide (BND061) – Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Weed Killer Concentrate, Liquid Harvest Lazer Blue Concentrated Spray Pattern Indicator 8-Ounces Perfect Weed Dye, Preen 2464127 Garden Weed Preventer, Monterey LG5518 Turflon Ester Specialty Herbicide Concentrate Broadleaf Weed Killer for Lawns, Spectracide Weed & Grass Killer, and Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer.
For a more convenient experience, consider investing in the 2 AccuShot Sprayer, which is our top pick.
Our Top Pick for the Best Dandelion Killer
For a reliable and efficient solution to eradicate dandelions, our top recommendation is the Spectracide Weed & Grass Killer2 AccuShot Sprayer. Its adaptability, user-friendly interface, and impressive weed-killing performance make it an excellent choice for tackling unwanted vegetation on your property. As a comprehensive weed control system, Spectracide allows you to target dandelions and other weeds with ease.
If you’re tired of dealing with the nuisance of dandelions in your garden, this tried-and-true product is here to save the day with its powerful spray action. You can check the current price on Amazon.
Create a Dandelion-Free Garden with a Dandelion Killer
Despite their charm, dandelions can be a relentless force in gardens. Their ability to produce multiple flowers from a single stem makes them seem almost invincible. While kids delight in collecting them and they offer potential health benefits like lowering blood pressure, they can wreak havoc on a beautifully manicured lawn or garden bed for allergy sufferers.
The good news is that a well-chosen dandelion killer can quickly and effectively eliminate these pesky plants, even tackling other unwanted weeds like clover and crabgrass in the process. With so many options available, it’s essential to find the right solution for your specific needs. This guide aims to provide valuable insights and reviews to help you make an informed decision when selecting a weed control product for your outdoor space.
How to Choose the Best Dandelion Killer
Liquid Concentrate Dandelion Killer
When it comes to liquid-based dandelion killers, the size of the bottle is an important consideration. The small 8-ounce and 16-ounce bottles are perfect for tackling a smaller patch of dandelions, while the larger 1-gallon option provides ample supply for tackling larger lawns. To apply this type of product, simply mix it with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then spray it evenly over the targeted area using a hose-end sprayer, tank sprayer, or backpack sprayer.
One of the benefits of liquid-based dandelion killers is their versatility – you can use them on their own or combine them with your regular fertilizer for added effectiveness. However, it’s crucial to premix the product correctly, as failure to do so can render it ineffective.
Liquid Concentrate Blue Dye
The Liquid Harvest Lazer Blue Concentrated Spray Pattern Indicator takes the guesswork out of weed control by providing a brilliant blue dye, making it easy to track where you’ve applied the solution. This innovative feature saves time and effort in the long run, as you can quickly identify areas that require additional treatment. While the dye may take a few days to fade, it can be easily removed with water once dry.
However, one potential drawback is that the blue hue can be challenging to remove from surfaces like concrete, which requires some extra care when using this type of indicator.
Dandelion Killer Granules
Dandelion killer granules are a fantastic solution for any garden, offering unparalleled versatility. These effective products can be spread evenly across a wide area or targeted at individual plants. For larger backyards, utilizing a fertilizer spreader ensures efficient and accurate distribution of the granules.
The ease of use is another significant advantage, as all it takes is scattering the product, followed by normal watering and allowing the weed eliminator to do its job in killing those pesky dandelions and other unwanted weeds. It’s worth noting that some products may require application on dry soil, and they might not be suitable for lawns, so be sure to follow the specific instructions.
Herbicide Versus Pesticides
When it comes to tackling weeds, herbicides like the Spectracide Weed & Grass Killer2 AccuShot Sprayer offer a more natural approach that’s just as effective. While they may take longer to take effect, depending on the formulation, and require repeated applications, their biggest draw is their safer profile for humans, animals, and the environment. This stands in contrast to pesticides, which contain powerful chemicals designed to kill quickly and cover large areas.
However, it’s crucial to exercise extreme caution when using these products, as they’re highly toxic. Ensure that all individuals, pets, and livestock are kept at a safe distance until the spray is completely dry. If you plan to use the product near edible plants, be sure to carefully follow the instructions and take necessary precautions.
Pre-Emergent Dandelion Killer
When it comes to tackling dandelions, a pre-emergent dandelion killer provides a strategic advantage by allowing you to strike at the roots of the problem before they even have a chance to grow. This type of weed killer is specifically designed to be applied during the winter and fall seasons, capitalizing on the dormant period when dandelions are most vulnerable.
One crucial consideration to keep in mind with pre-emergent products is that they’re not intended for use on visible dandelion growth – instead, they focus on preventing new dandelion seeds from germinating in the first place.
Post Emergent
Post-emergent weed killers serve as a valuable tool for tackling existing dandelion infestations in lawns and gardens. Their primary advantage lies in their ability to target specific weeds, eliminating the need for pre-emergent applications that would require repeated treatments throughout the year. On larger properties, these products can be particularly useful, as they typically only need to be applied once or twice annually, depending on the manufacturer’s guidelines.
To achieve optimal results, it is crucial to ensure the targeted dandelions are thoroughly saturated with the product, allowing the active ingredients to effectively kill the unwanted vegetation.
How Big is Your Garden?
When it comes to tackling dandelions in your garden, the size of your outdoor space is an important factor to consider. The type and quantity of weed-killer product you choose depends on the area you’re looking to cover. Most products are designed for small, medium or large areas, such as a compact lawn up to 5,000 square feet, a mid-sized yard up to 15,000 square feet, or a larger property up to 25,000 square feet.
If your garden is on the larger side, you’ll need to use more weed killer to ensure even coverage and avoid those unsightly bare patches that can ruin the aesthetic of your outdoor space.
Cool or Warm Grasses
When utilizing a dandelion killer on your lawn, it’s essential to consider the type of grass you’re working with. Cool-season grasses, like those found in the PBI/GORDON Trimec Lawn Weed Killer, require application during the fall and spring seasons when temperatures are cooler. On the other hand, warm-season grasses, as seen in the Spectracide Weed & Grass Killer2 AccuShot Sprayer, thrive in late spring and summer.
It’s crucial to note that some highly concentrated formulas can damage specific types of grass, so always read and follow the instructions provided. For instance, tall fescue, a resilient cool-season grass, can tolerate applications throughout the year due to its ability to survive in the Transition Zone.
Is the Dandelion Killer Rainproof?
When selecting a dandelion killer, look for products that boast rainproof properties. This feature allows for greater flexibility in application timing, as the formula can withstand light precipitation. The duration of this durability typically ranges from 1 hour to 6-8 hours, depending on the specific product. For those residing in areas with frequent rainfall, it’s essential to plan spray sessions accordingly, taking into account the potential for rain showers.
Dandelion Killer Smart Safety Tips
When tackling dandelion killers, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. To minimize risks, take these precautions:Ensure you’re suitably attired with protective gear like clothing, gloves, and a mask to prevent exposure. Avoid spraying on windy days to prevent accidental inhalation or unwanted residue on nearby plants or pathways. Secure any livestock away from the treatment area to safeguard their well-being.
If you have pets, verify that the treated area is completely dry before allowing them to roam freely in your yard. By following these guidelines, you’ll significantly reduce the potential hazards associated with using dandelion killers.
10 Best Dandelion Killers – Reviews
Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed
The Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed is a cutting-edge solution for lawn care, boasting a unique combination of weed-killing and fertilizing properties. With its powerful Weedgrip Technology, this herbicide can eliminate dandelions, clover, and other unwanted weeds, while promoting the growth of strong, green grass. The synthetic granules are not only effective at killing and preventing weeds but also work as a fertilizer to develop deeper and thicker roots for a dense lawn throughout the year.
Users have the flexibility to scatter the granules by hand or utilize a fertilizer spreader for larger lawns. Although specifically designed for cool-season spring grasses such as Bermuda, Bluegrass, Centipede, Fescue, Rye, and Zoysia, Scotts offers a range of weed killer products tailored to other grass types. The Turf Builder Weed & Feed is available in two coverage sizes: 5,000 square feet or 15,000 square feet.
Its pros include high quality, great value for money, ease of use, safer herbicide options, and exceptional effectiveness. Some cons, however, include limited compatibility with certain grass types and a restricted usage period during spring. Nevertheless, this product remains a popular choice among lawn enthusiasts due to its two times more powerful weed control action and ability to prevent future weeds.
Ortho Weed B Gon plus Crabgrass Control
Take control of your lawn by effectively targeting and eliminating dandelions and crabgrass with Ortho Weed B Gon plus Crabgrass Control. This powerful concentrate can tackle both visible and hidden weeds, stopping future growth in its tracks. As a pre-emergent and post-emergent solution, it delivers quick results by killing weeds at the root level. Its formula is designed to target over 200 common weeds without harming your lawn when used correctly.
The product’s ease of use is another significant advantage – simply mix the concentrate with water, apply it using the Ortho Dial ‘N Spray Hose-end sprayer, and watch as it starts working immediately. It also becomes rain-proof within an hour, providing added protection against weather conditions. One of the most notable benefits of Ortho Weed B Gon plus Crabgrass Control is its versatility – it can be used on all types of grass and covers a small 6,400 sq. ft. area.
Additionally, it starts working instantly, making it an effective solution for keeping your lawn weed-free. Some key pros to consider include: high quality, excellent value for money, easy to use, and the fact that it can be applied using various tank sprayers. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as needing regular application for large infestations or best results when weeds are actively growing.
Nevertheless, the benefits of using Ortho Weed B Gon plus Crabgrass Control far outweigh any potential limitations.
PBI / Gordon Trimec Lawn Weed Killer
When it comes to tackling large lawns, the PBI / Gordon Trimec Lawn Weed Killer is an exceptional choice. Designed specifically for cool-season grasses, this versatile product can be used on a wide range of lawn types, including Kentucky bluegrass, Bermuda grass, perennial ryes, and fescues. The three-way concentrated formula is particularly effective at eliminating hard-to-control weeds like dandelions and over 250 broadleaf varieties.
What’s more, it’s completely safe for your lawn, allowing you to use the treated area as normal once the spray has dried. After application, the weed killer becomes rainproof within six-eight hours, providing peace of mind in case of unexpected weather conditions. The concentrate is also incredibly economical, with a little going a long way. Application is straightforward using a pump sprayer, hose-end sprayer, or tow-behind sprayer.
The benefits of this product are numerous: high quality, excellent value for money, and specifically designed for cool-season grasses. It’s perfect for large lawns ranging from 32,000 to 64,000 square feet. The powerful herbicide is not only effective but also safer to use than many alternatives. It kills dandelions and over 250 broadleaf weeds without harming your lawn.
The product is available in a 1-gallon size and features several convenient properties, including being rainproof and economical. You can apply it using various methods, making it a versatile addition to your lawn care routine. The only drawbacks are the higher price point compared to similar products and the requirement to wait up to three-four weeks after application before re-seeding.
Bonide (BND061) – Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Weed Killer Concentrate
Bonide’s BND061 solution offers a reliable way to eliminate dandelions from your lawn. This powerful concentrate herbicide is effective against a wide range of weeds, including chickweed, clover, oxalis, and over 100 hard-to-control species. Not only is it tough on weeds, but it’s also gentle on your lawn, killing unwanted growth right down to the roots while being safe for use on cool-season grasses like bluegrass, fescue, rye, bent, Bermuda, Bahia, or Zoysia.
The product starts working overnight and remains rainproof within hours of application. A single pint provides expansive coverage up to 5,000 square feet, making it an economical option. However, users should note that the concentrate requires premixing before use, although Bonide does offer a ready-to-use 1-gallon premixed bottle for larger lawns. The product’s pros include its high quality, good value for money, and effectiveness against dandelions and other hard-to-control weeds.
It’s also fast-acting, rainproof, and can be used with a hose-end sprayer or spray tank. Additionally, the 1-gallon premixed bottle provides convenient coverage for larger lawns. On the downside, users should avoid spraying near ornamental or tree feeder roots, as this product is not designed for that purpose. Some users have also reported yellowing of Bermuda grass and kill-off of cool-season grasses if the product is not diluted properly.
Liquid Harvest Lazer Blue Concentrated Spray Pattern Indicator 8-Ounces Perfect Weed Dye
When dandelions and other unwanted plants start taking over your lawn, regaining control is as easy as mixing up a batch of the Liquid Harvest Lazer Blue Concentrated Spray. This versatile product can be combined with your existing herbicide, fungicide, pesticide, or fertilizer to create a powerful solution. One of the biggest benefits of this spray is its ability to indicate exactly where it’s been applied thanks to its bright blue dye.
No longer will you find yourself wondering which areas have been treated and which haven’t – the blue color provides clear visual confirmation. And because this dye is non-toxic, you can use it with confidence. While the dye may not be permanent and can fade over time as it’s exposed to sun and moisture, there are also easy ways to remove any stains from your skin or equipment.
Simply use soapy water to wash off any excess dye from your skin, or mix bleach with water to rub away any stains on surfaces. Applying the spray is a breeze, whether you’re using a spray bottle or backpack sprayer. And thanks to its unique drift reduction formula, the solution will stick to weeds and won’t be blown away by high winds. Overall, this product has several pros that make it an attractive option for homeowners looking to tackle their weed problems.
These include its high quality, good value for the price, and ability to easily mix with water-based herbicides, fungicides, pesticides, or fertilizer. It’s also economical and can be used on a small lawn with ease. That being said, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. Some users have reported that the spray gives off a strong smell when first applied, while others have noted that it takes an extended amount of time for some weeds to fully die.
Additionally, this product should not be used in conjunction with oil-based treatments. Despite these minor cons, however, many users have found the benefits of this product to outweigh its drawbacks.
Preen 2464127 Garden Weed Preventer
The Preen 2464127 Garden Weed Preventer is a game-changer for anyone struggling with dandelions. This pre-emergent weed killer works by stopping weeds before they even have a chance to germinate, eliminating the need for time-consuming hand-weeding and allowing your plants to thrive. As a powerful pesticide, it lasts up to three months and is rainproof, making it a convenient solution for gardeners.
The product is easy to use, requiring only that you sprinkle the granules on the soil’s surface and water as normal. It can be applied at any time during spring, summer, or fall. The granules provide good coverage over an area of up to 2,560 square feet, or can be mixed into the soil in specific trouble-spots where dandelions are most likely to appear.
The product is safe for use around 200 established flowers, vegetables, trees, and shrubs, making it a great option for gardeners who want to keep their edible plants weed-free. Additionally, Preen offers a range of Weed Preventer buckets for gardens of different sizes. In terms of pros, the Preen 2464127 Garden Weed Preventer is a high-quality product that offers excellent value for money.
It prevents new weeds from sprouting, eliminates the need for hand-weeding, and comes with a handy applicator scoop. The product also lasts up to three months and provides good coverage over a large area. One potential con of the product is that it does not kill existing weeds, only preventing them from growing. Additionally, all existing weeds and grasses must be removed prior to use.
Finally, it’s worth noting that this product is specifically designed for garden beds and should not be used on lawns.
Monterey LG5518 Turflon Ester Specialty Herbicide Concentrate Broadleaf Weed Killer for Lawns
For a more natural approach to tackling dandelions and other broadleaf weeds, consider using Monterey’s LG5518 Turflon Ester Speciality Herbicide Concentrate. This post-emergent spray is specifically designed for turf with cool-season grasses such as bermudagrass, kikuyugrass, perennial bluegrass, perennial ryegrass or tall fescue ornamental grass. If you’re looking for an alternative to harsh chemicals, this herbicide is a great option.
It’s effective at controlling actively growing weeds like dandelions, Oxalis, ground ivy, wild violet, clover, and ragweed. Simply dilute the herbicide with water and apply using a spray tank. One of the benefits of Turflon Ester is its cost-effectiveness – one pint covers an area up to 20,000 sq. ft., making it a great value for money. Monterey also offers this herbicide in smaller sizes (8-ounce and 32-ounce bottles) for even greater convenience.
Pros include:* High-quality product* Great value for money* More natural and safer approach to weed control* Effective at controlling actively growing plants* Easy to apply with a spray tank* Highly economical – one pint covers an area up to 20,000 sq. ft.
* Available in multiple sizes (8-ounce, 16-ounce, and 32-ounce bottles)Cons include:* Only effective for controlling emerged weeds present at the time of application* Pricier than some other herbicides on the market* Limited usage only on cool-season grasses
Spectracide Weed & Grass Killer2 AccuShot Sprayer
Take back control of your garden and lawn from pesky dandelions with the Spectracide Weed & Grass Killer2 AccuShot Sprayer. This potent premixed concentrate is specifically designed to tackle dandelions, as well as other weeds and nuisance grasses, on a variety of surfaces including driveways, walkways, fences, trees, shrubs, and flower beds.
The one-touch AccuShot sprayer eliminates the need for repetitive squeezing, pumping, or pulling, allowing for seamless application with its comfortable, ergonomic grip and extendable wand. This fast-acting formula kills vegetation on contact, entering plants through leaves and moving down to the roots to ensure complete elimination. Visible results can be seen in just three hours, after which you can replant new flowers, trees, and shrubs without worrying about washaway or disturbance.
For best results, apply during warm, sunny weather when temperatures reach 60° or higher. The Spectracide Weed & Grass Killer is available in various bottle sizes for your garden and lawn, backed by a 100% money-back guarantee if it fails to meet expectations.
Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer
With Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer, you can effectively suppress dandelions and other weeds for up to three months with just one application. This powerful pre-emergent formula is specifically designed to safeguard your garden while preventing unwanted weeds from sprouting. The 5lb. jug covers a significant area of up to 800 sq. ft.
, making it ideal for small gardens, and can be used to protect a wide range of plants including listed flowers, vegetables, roses, ground covers, shrubs, and trees. Notably, the easy-to-use applicator allows for precise dispensing of the granules, eliminating the need for manual weeding. Additionally, Miracle-Gro offers a 180-day return warranty on their Weed Preventer, providing customers with added peace of mind. The product’s pros include high quality, great value, and an affordable price.
While some users may experience slow release of the formula or initial hesitation in its effectiveness, the overall benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks.
RM43 43% Glyphosate Plus Weed Preventer
When dealing with pesky dandelions taking over your property, consider using RM43 43% Glyphosate Plus Weed Preventer. This powerful solution is designed to tackle noxious plant growth in various areas such as fence rows, gravel paths, sidewalks, driveways, parking areas, farm buildings, and barns. The highly concentrated formula combines two herbicides and surfactants to effectively eliminate dandelions, vines, brush, trees, warm and cool-season grasses, and over 250 common weeds.
You can use it as a spot treatment on non-crop areas or spray it on bare ground, but be sure not to apply it near the root systems of desirable plants or food crops. One gallon of RM43 treats up to 17,297 square feet, providing total vegetation control for up to one year. The liquid solution is rainfast in just two hours, making it safe to use around pets and people once it has dried. Additionally, RM43 comes in a range of sizes, including a 0.25-gallon bottle and a 2.5-gallon bottle.
Pros include the high quality of the product, its good value for money, and its effectiveness at controlling vegetation. It’s also easy to use with either a handheld sprayer or a backpack sprayer. The formula kills weeds and prevents them from growing back for up to one year. However, some users may find it pricey, slow-acting, or not fully waterproof. As an added note, RM43 is not suitable for treating lawns, desired plants, or food crops.
If you’re interested in purchasing RM43 43% Glyphosate Plus Weed Preventer, check out the current price on Amazon.
Our Top Pick for the Best Dandelion Killer
For those seeking an effective solution for banishing dandelions from their outdoor spaces, our top recommendation is the Spectracide Weed & Grass Killer2 AccuShot Sprayer. This product stands out due to its adaptability, intuitive design, and impressive performance in eradicating unwanted vegetation. As a comprehensive weed control solution, Spectracide enables users to target and eliminate dandelions and other pesky weeds anywhere on their property.
Tired of dealing with the frustration that dandelions bring to gardening? Rest assured that this trusted product is here to save the day, delivering swift and decisive action against these pesky invaders. To explore pricing options, visit Amazon.
