Best Dandelion Killer That Won’t Kill Your Grass
Dandelions are a common perennial weed that can appear on your beautifully manicured lawns and landscapes. They thrive in all soil types and spread over lawns exposed to full sunlight. While they may initially seem like a non-issue, they compromise the health and appearance of your lawn. Dandelions compete with lawn grass for water, sunlight, and essential nutrients, often leading to patchy areas.
As such, eliminating dandelions should be a priority for homeowners looking to maintain a healthy and vibrant landscape. Unfortunately, with endless weed killers promising to work magically available in the market, finding the best dandelion killer that won’t kill grass becomes a challenge. Try one of the following five best dandelion killers for lawns.
1. Ortho Weed B Gon Weed Killer
The Ortho Weed B Gon Weed Killer is undoubtedly the best granular dandelion killer for any weed-infested lawn. The manufacturer offers a plethora of gardening products and accessories, including weedicides, for large-scale application. This dandelion killer concentrates specifically targets dandelions and broadleaf weeds, leaving your grass safe. Ortho Weed B is available in various formulations, ranging from concentrates for large lawns and ready-to-use sprays for all sizes of backyard lawns.
Pros
- Kills dandelions and other broadleaf weeds
- It can be used for most grass types
- Easy application with sprayer or hose attachment
- Available in multiple formulations
- Fast-acting dandelion killer
Cons
- Slow acting on stubborn weeds
- It can damage grass if not mixed correctly
2. Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed
You should use the Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed to achieve two results with one application. As the name suggests, it is a weed and feed product, which makes it beneficial to a weed-infested lawn that needs a nutritional boost. It combines the benefits of a fertilizer and weed killer.
Pros
- Effective for dandelions and broadleaf weeds
- Easy application
- A single application covers a wide area
- Works on different grass types
- Nourishes grass with fertilizers
Cons
- Doesn’t produce immediate results
- Requires multiple applications to kill stubborn weeds
3. Bayer Advanced All-In-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer
The Bayer Advanced All-In-One Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer is another effective weed killer that eliminates dandelion, crabgrass, and other weeds. It is a selective weed killer that acts on unsightly weeds without affecting lawn grass.
Pros
- It kills multiple weed types
- Easy application
- Short-acting – visible results after a few days
- Suitable for multiple grass types
Cons
- Requires multiple applications to kill stubborn weeds
- It can cause temporary grass discoloration
4. Espoma Organic Weed Preventer
The Espoma Organic Weed Preventer is an excellent organic solution for those who want to control dandelion growth and spread in their lawns. Despite being a relatively new product on the market, it is a great pick for homeowners struggling with dandelions and other weed types.
Pros
- Large packing that covers a wide area
- Perfect for organic farming
- Slow-release formula assures of long-lasting weed control
- Improves lawn soil fertility
- It can be used on new and established lawns
Cons
- Best as a preventive product than as a post emergent dandelion killer
- Requires multiple applications to eliminate stubborn weeds
5. Vinegar and Dish Soap Solution
You should try the Vinegar and Dish Soap Solution if you are looking for the best dandelion killer safe for pets and kids. This homemade dandelion killer uses all-natural ingredients, assuring its safety profile. Vinegar is naturally the best herbicide for dandelions and clover. Dish soap is included in this formulation to help vinegar adhere to the leaves of weeds and other unwanted growths.
Pros
- Inexpensive and uses readily available ingredients
- Safe for pets and kids
- Easy to apply
- Environmental-friendly
Cons
- It can kill grass if applied in large quantities
- Requires multiple applications to kill deep-rooted and stubborn weeds
FAQs
What is the best time to kill dandelions on lawns?
Weed killers work more effectively when applied early in the morning. Plants absorb weed killers better in the morning. You should also check your local area weather forecast to ensure there is no rain or strong winds 24 hours after application.
What do professionals use to kill dandelions?
You should consult professionals if dealing with dandelions on your lawn has proved impossible. Choosing the best dandelion killer for lawn can prove difficult for obvious reasons. However, professionals know the best type of weed killer for your type of grass. They use selective herbicides that target dandelions without harming the surrounding vegetation.
What kills dandelions permanently?
If you’ve been struggling with dandelions in your lawn every season, you should find ways of killing them permanently. The best way to achieve this is to target these weeds’ root systems. For this, you should spray your lawn with weed killers specifically designed to reach the roots. You can also remove them manually through digging or hand-pulling.
Are dandelion killers safe for pets and children?
Most dandelion killers have a considerably wide safety profile and are safe for pets and kids. However, you should read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions before applying on your lawn. Similarly, keep pets and children off the treated lawn until these products dry off completely.
What is the best way to apply dandelion killers without damaging grass?
Like other landscaping products, you should carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to kill dandelions without damaging grass. You should apply these weed killers evenly and at the recommended dosage. Over-spraying these concentrates can harm your lawn grass.
The Bottom Line
Controlling weeds in your lawn or landscape can prove challenging. Besides picking the right product, you should also choose the best dandelion killer that won’t kill grass to maintain a healthy and weed-free lawn. Important factors to consider when shopping for weed killers include your lawn grass type, weed type, and environmental conditions.
All weed killers mentioned above provide effective dandelion and other weed control without harming your grass. Whether you prefer conventional weed killers or organic solutions for safety reasons, you should use the recommended amounts and follow application instructions for the best results.
