Are unsightly weeds taking over your lawn, hardscape, or garden beds? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this comprehensive guide, we will be reviewing the 7 best post-emergent herbicides of 2023 that will help you achieve a beautiful, weed-free landscape.

What are Post-Emergent Herbicides?

Before diving into the top herbicides, let’s first understand what post-emergent herbicides are and how they work.

Post-emergent herbicides, also known as weed killers, are chemical formulations designed to target weeds that have already emerged or sprouted above the soil surface. They are applied after the weeds have germinated and are actively growing.

These weed control products work by disrupting biochemical processes that are vital for plant growth and development. When applied correctly, post-emergent herbicides translocate throughout the weed’s stems, leaves, and roots, eventually killing it completely.

Unlike pre-emergent herbicides that form a barrier to prevent weed seeds from sprouting, post-emergent herbicides directly attack existing weeds. This makes them highly effective for tackling weed infestations once they have already established themselves.

When to Apply Post-Emergent Herbicides

Timing is critical when using post-emergent herbicides. For best results, it is ideal to apply them when the targeted weeds are young, actively growing, and have not yet produced seeds.

The optimum time is usually early to mid spring when soil temperatures reach 50-60°F and weeds begin actively photosynthesizing. Late summer to early fall is also an effective application window when weeds are preparing for winter.

Avoid spraying during hot, dry weather or frost conditions when plants are stressed and herbicide absorption is hindered. Carefully read the product label for specific timing recommendations based on the weed type and location.

Proper application timing allows the post-emergent herbicide to act quickly so weeds can be eliminated before they overwhelm your lawn or garden.

How to Choose the Best Post-Emergent Herbicide

With so many post-emergent herbicides on the market, how do you pick the right one for your weed problem? Here are some key factors to consider:

• Weed type – Match the herbicide to the specific weeds you need to control. Some products target broadleaf weeds while others work on grassy weeds.
• Lawn type – Select a product labeled for your lawn’s grass species, whether it’s bermuda, zoysia, fescue, or other types. Ensure compatibility.
• Application method – Choose a ready-to-use spray, concentrate, granular spread, or wipe-on formula suited to your needs.
• Formula – Opt for selective or non-selective herbicides depending on whether you want to preserve grass or kill all vegetation. Systemic products that translocate through the plant are very effective.
• Safety – Read labels thoroughly and opt for pet-friendly and eco-friendly options when possible. Consider potential toxicity.
• Speed – Faster-acting herbicides deliver quicker weed control but may require more care when applying.

Once you understand the weed problem and lawn type, selecting the right post-emergent herbicide becomes much easier. Always read and follow the label directions carefully.

7 Best Post-Emergent Herbicides of 2023

Now that you know what to look for in a post-emergent herbicide, let’s review the top options for tackling weeds in lawns, gardens and hardscapes.

1. Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed

• Key Features: Dual action – fertilizes and controls weeds; covers 5,000 sq ft; liquid concentrate or granular.
• Target Weeds: Chickweed, clover, dandelion, dollar weed, henbit, knotweed, plantain, spurge.
• Application: Spring and fall when weeds are actively growing.
• Cost: $$

Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed is a popular post-emergent herbicide that nourishes grass while eliminating broadleaf weeds. The liquid concentrate is ideal for spot treatment with a tank sprayer. The granular form provides full lawn coverage with a broadcast spreader.

2. Roundup Ready-to-Use Weed & Grass Killer

• Key Features: Non-selective; kills all vegetation; fast-acting formula; attaches to wand for spot treatment.
• Target Weeds: Annual and perennial grasses and broadleaf weeds.
• Application: Spring through fall during active growth.
• Cost: $

Roundup’s ready-to-use formula makes spot treatment easy. Just connect the bottle to your hose, then spray directly onto unwanted weeds in your lawn, flower beds, sidewalk cracks and driveways. It begins working immediately on contact for visible results within hours.

3. Ortho Weed B Gon Weed Killer for Lawns

• Key Features: Selective broadleaf weed control; won’t harm lawns; covers 5,000 sq ft; liquid concentrate.
• Target Weeds: Chickweed, clover, dandelion, knotweed, henbit, plantain, spurge.
• Application: Spring and fall when weeds are small and actively growing.
• Cost: $$

Ortho Weed B Gon is a highly effective post-emergent herbicide for broadleaf weeds that spares your lawn grass. It quickly enters through weed foliage and moves to the roots. Visible results show within hours.

4. BioAdvanced All-in-One Lawn Weed & Crabgrass Killer

• Key Features: Prevents and kills broadleaf & grassy weeds; crabgrass preventer; covers 5,000 sq ft.
• Target Weeds: 200+ including crabgrass, clover, dandelion, chickweed, knotweed, henbit, plantain, spurge.
• Application: Early spring and early fall based on location.
• Cost: $$

With two powerful modes of action, BioAdvanced All-in-One tackles existing weed infestations and prevents future crabgrass for up to 6 weeks. The liquid concentrate is ideal for spreader application over full lawns.

5. Bayer Advanced Southern Weed Killer for Lawns

• Key Features: Treats southern weeds like dollarweed and clover; begins working immediately; hose-end bottle.
• Target Weeds: Dollarweed, clover, bittercress, wild violet, woodsorrel, many others.
• Application: Spring, summer and fall as weeds appear.
• Cost: $$

Specifically formulated for warm season southern lawns, Bayer Advanced Weed Killer targets some of the most stubborn broadleaf weeds under hot, humid conditions. Results are visible in hours with no harm to your grass.

6. Preen Garden Weed Preventer

• Key Features: Pre-emergent control; forms weed barrier; use around plants and borders.
• Target Weeds: Prevents seeds from germinating including lambsquarters, ragweed, grass weeds, more.
• Application: Early spring before weed seeds sprout and activate.
• Cost: $

Unlike post-emergent herbicides that kill existing weeds, Preen prevents new weeds from ever germinating. It’s ideal for use around established plants you want to keep weed-free. Apply early spring and it controls weeds all season long.

7. Tenacity Turf Herbicide

• Key Features: Selective post-emergent; controls grassy & broadleaf weeds; safe for seeding.
• Target Weeds: Crabgrass, foxtail, barnyardgrass, chickweed, clover, ground ivy, plantain, dandelion.
• Application: Early spring through fall depending on target weeds.
• Cost: $$$

Tenacity is a one-of-a-kind post-emergent herbicide that controls a wide spectrum of weeds safely on all cool and warm season grasses. It allows overseeding and sodding during application windows.

How to Apply Post-Emergent Herbicides

Once you’ve selected the right post-emergent herbicide for your needs, proper application is key for maximum effectiveness. Here are some tips:

• Carefully read and follow all label instructions for your specific product.
• Wear protective gear like rubber gloves, long sleeves, pants, goggles and a mask or respirator.
• Only apply during recommended weather conditions – avoid windy, excessively hot or humid days.
• Use a tank sprayer for large areas, a hose-end sprayer for mid-sized spots, or a ready-to-use trigger bottle for small areas.
• Adjust nozzle to a fan spray pattern and appropriate pressure. Maintain a steady walking pace.
• Spot treat isolated weeds or do a full broadcast application for widespread infestations.
• Adhere to all label precautions related to pets, people, and re-entry intervals after application.

Correct dosages and technique ensures the herbicide contacts the maximum number of weed leaves for best absorption and translocation to the roots. This leads to outstanding weed control.

Lawn Care After Post-Emergent Herbicide Application

Your work isn’t done after simply spraying the weeds. Proper lawn care afterwards ensures your grass recovers and fills in the spaces:

• Water – Water the lawn to aid in herbicide activation and grass recovery. Don’t overwater.
• Wait – Allow time for the product to work fully before re-seeding or fertilizing. This is usually 1-4 weeks.
• Remove – Dead weeds can be left to decompose but removing large drifts can accelerate lawn improvement.
• Spot spray – Monitor for any skipped weeds or new growth. Spot spray to control.
• Overseed – Overseed bare spots with new grass seed once product has finished working.
• Fertilize – Apply fertilizer to nourish grass and fill in bare areas as lawn recovers.
• Aerate – Core aeration relieves soil compaction allowing new grass roots to establish.

Follow up care ensures your lawn transforms into a lush, weed-free carpet that fills in beautifully.

Safety Tips for Using Post-Emergent Herbicides

While extremely effective, post-emergent herbicides contain chemicals that can cause harm if misused. Exercise caution:

• Wear proper PPE when mixing and applying – long sleeves, pants, gloves, and protective eyewear.
• Keep people and pets off treated areas until completely dry.
• Wash skin immediately if product gets on hands or other body parts.
• Triple rinse containers before disposal and use designated hazardous waste facilities.
• Store products securely away from children and food items.
• Use extra precautions when spraying near gardens, water sources, or wildlife habitats.
• Follow all environmental protection guidelines outlined on the label.

With judicious use, post-emergent herbicides can control weeds safely. But always take steps to minimize human, pet, and environmental exposure.

Getting Professional Help for Tough Weed Problems

For homeowners dealing with severe weed infestations, it is often wise to hire professional lawn care experts. Companies like GreenPal have licensed applicators with specialized training, commercial grade equipment, and the competence to develop customized management plans for your specific weed issues.

Professionals have access to more advanced herbicides and can implement a complete season-long approach combining pre- and post-emergent products. This delivers superior, long-lasting weed control.

Let the experts at GreenPal inspect your lawn and prescribe the ideal solutions for eliminates weeds and nurturing lush grass worthy of envy from neighbors!

Transform Your Lawn with the Best Post-Emergent Herbicides

In summary, using the right post-emergent herbicide at the optimal time is crucial for gaining control over lawn weeds before they choke out your grass. Pre-planning is key.

Use this guide to select a product tailored to your weed type and lawn care needs. Always carefully follow label instructions during application and storage. And don’t neglect appropriate follow up care for the best results.

Employing the proper cultural practices along with the safest and most effective post-emergent herbicides will successfully rid your lawn and gardens of unattractive and invasive weeds. Your effort will pay off with an exquisite landscape you can be proud of all season long.

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