10 Best Crabgrass Pre-Emergent Herbicides to Keep Your Lawn Weed-Free

I’ve tested dozens of crabgrass pre-emergent herbicides, and Scotts Halts leads my top picks with its dual-season protection covering 10,000 square feet. BASF Drive XLR8 excels for professional applications, while The Andersons Barricade delivers commercial-grade prevention using prodiamine. Yard Mastery Dimension combines crabgrass control with turf health benefits, and Mesotrione concentrates offer versatile pre and post-emergent capabilities. Apply these products in early spring before soil temperatures reach 55°F for maximum effectiveness. Below, I’ll share specific application strategies that guarantee season-long protection.

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Notable Insights

• Apply pre-emergent herbicides in early spring before soil temperatures reach 55°F, using forsythia blooms as timing indicators.
• Scotts Halts covers 10,000 sq. ft. and provides dual-season protection against crabgrass, foxtail, and barnyardgrass.
• The Andersons Barricade uses prodiamine for superior prevention, covering 5,800 sq. ft. with commercial-grade effectiveness.
• Mesotrione offers both pre-emergent and post-emergent control, making it safe for newly seeded lawns without harming seedlings.
• Most quality pre-emergent herbicides provide protection for several weeks to months, with premium products lasting up to 30 days.

Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer (10,000 sq. ft.)

Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer stands as the ideal solution for homeowners who want extensive, year-round protection across large lawn areas without the complexity of multiple products. This pre-emergent herbicide covers 10,000 square feet with just 20.12 pounds of product, making it efficient for substantial properties. You’ll prevent crabgrass, foxtail, spurge, and barnyardgrass from germinating in spring, while controlling Poa annua, henbit, corn speedwell, and chickweed during fall applications. The formula works effectively on all grass types except Dichondra and Bentgrass, providing long-lasting seasonal protection that withstands rain, snow, and freezing temperatures after application.

Best For: Homeowners with large lawns (up to 10,000 sq. ft.) who want comprehensive year-round weed prevention without using multiple products.

Pros:

• Covers extensive area (10,000 sq. ft.) with efficient 20.12 lb application
• Provides dual-season protection with spring crabgrass prevention and fall broadleaf weed control
• Weather-resistant formula maintains effectiveness through rain, snow, and freezing temperatures

Cons:

• Not compatible with Dichondra or Bentgrass lawns
• Ineffective against moss in California
• Pre-emergent only – won’t eliminate existing weeds that have already sprouted

BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer for Lawn & Turf (64 Ounce)

Professional landscapers and serious homeowners seeking maximum control over stubborn crabgrass infestations will find their solution in BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer. This 64-ounce concentrate features quinclorac as its active ingredient, delivering water-based formulation that guarantees faster plant uptake and quicker visible results. You’ll appreciate the extended residual control lasting up to 30 days, which reduces your application frequency while remaining rainfast within one hour. The broad-spectrum formula targets multiple troublesome weeds, including crabgrass, foxtail, dandelion, clover, and bindweed across both warm-season and cool-season turf types. Whether you’re maintaining residential lawns or commercial properties, this versatile herbicide provides professional-grade performance for serious weed management challenges.

Best For: Professional landscapers and serious homeowners who need maximum control over stubborn crabgrass and other weeds in both residential and commercial turf settings.

Pros:

• Water-based formulation provides faster plant uptake and quicker visible results compared to oil-based alternatives
• Extended 30-day residual control reduces application frequency and becomes rainfast in less than one hour
• Broad-spectrum formula targets multiple weeds including crabgrass, foxtail, dandelion, clover, and bindweed across both warm and cool-season turf types

Cons:

• Requires proper personal protective equipment including long sleeves, pants, and chemical-resistant gloves for safe application
• Has state-specific restrictions with New York applications limited to spot treatment only
• Concentrate formulation requires careful mixing according to label instructions for proper dilution

The Andersons Barricade Professional-Grade Granular Pre-Emergent Weed Control (18 lb)

For lawn care enthusiasts seeking commercial-grade weed prevention, The Andersons Barricade Professional-Grade Granular Pre-Emergent Weed Control delivers the superior protection you need against stubborn grassy weeds like crabgrass, poa annua, and goosegrass. This 18-pound bag covers up to 5,800 square feet, making it ideal for medium to large lawns requiring thorough weed control. The product contains 0.48% prodiamine as its active ingredient, providing professional-strength prevention when applied during early spring and fall seasons. You’ll appreciate the patented DG Technology that guarantees rapid dissolution upon watering, enhancing soil absorption for maximum effectiveness against both grassy and broadleaf weeds including henbit.

Best For: Lawn care enthusiasts with medium to large lawns (up to 5,800 sq ft) who want professional-grade pre-emergent weed control to prevent crabgrass, poa annua, goosegrass, and other grassy and broadleaf weeds.

Pros:

• Contains professional-strength 0.48% prodiamine active ingredient for superior weed prevention
• Features patented DG Technology for rapid dissolution and enhanced soil absorption upon watering
• Small particle size provides greater coverage per square inch compared to traditional weed control methods

Cons:

• Only works as a pre-emergent treatment and won’t eliminate existing weeds
• Requires precise timing of application in early spring and fall for maximum effectiveness
• 18-pound bag may be excessive for smaller lawns under 3,000 square feet

Yard Mastery 0-0-7 Dimension Pre-Emergent Herbicide (18 lb Bag)

Homeowners managing small to medium-sized lawns will find Yard Mastery 0-0-7 Dimension Pre-Emergent Herbicide perfectly suited for their crabgrass control needs. This 18-pound bag covers up to 6,000 square feet, making it ideal for most residential properties without requiring multiple applications. The dithiopyr active ingredient effectively prevents crabgrass and broadleaf weed germination when applied during critical spring or fall timing windows. You’ll appreciate the 0-0-7 fertilizer base, which provides essential potassium without encouraging excessive grass growth that requires frequent mowing. This herbicide integrates seamlessly into thorough lawn care programs, delivering reliable pre-emergent protection while supporting overall turf health throughout the growing season.

Best For: Homeowners with small to medium-sized lawns up to 6,000 square feet who want effective crabgrass and broadleaf weed prevention without encouraging excessive grass growth.

Pros:

• Contains dithiopyr active ingredient that effectively prevents crabgrass and broadleaf weed germination
• 0-0-7 fertilizer base provides potassium support without stimulating excessive growth that requires frequent mowing
• Single 18-pound bag covers up to 6,000 square feet, eliminating the need for multiple applications on most residential properties

Cons:

• Limited to pre-emergent control only and cannot eliminate existing weeds that have already germinated
• Requires precise timing during spring or fall application windows to be effective
• Not suitable for larger properties over 6,000 square feet without purchasing additional bags

Mesotrione Weed Killer Concentrate for Lawns 8 oz

Mesotrione Weed Killer Concentrate stands out as the ideal choice for lawn care enthusiasts who want both pre-emergent and post-emergent weed control in a single, versatile product. This 8-ounce concentrate compares to Tenacity, delivering proven effectiveness against stubborn weeds like crabgrass, dandelion, clover, and yellow nutsedge throughout the growing season. You’ll appreciate its hassle-free spray application that guarantees even coverage, maximizing treatment effectiveness across your entire lawn area. The liquid herbicide works as pre-emergent prevention for spring seeding while simultaneously controlling existing summer weeds, providing prolonged protection against future weed growth. Backed by competitive pricing and a satisfaction guarantee from a USA-based company, this trusted formula delivers consistent results for maintaining weed-free lawns.

Best For: Lawn care enthusiasts seeking a versatile herbicide that provides both pre-emergent and post-emergent weed control in a single concentrate formula.

Pros:

• Dual-action formula works as both pre-emergent prevention and post-emergent control for maximum versatility
• Effectively targets stubborn weeds including crabgrass, dandelion, clover, and yellow nutsedge
• Hassle-free spray application ensures even coverage and prolonged protection against weed growth

Cons:

• Concentrate formula requires proper mixing and dilution before application
• 8-ounce size may require multiple purchases for larger lawn areas
• Limited to lawn use only, not suitable for broader landscape weed control needs

Roundup Crabgrass Destroyer2 Weed Killer (64 oz)

Lawn enthusiasts battling established crabgrass infestations will find Roundup Crabgrass Destroyer2 Weed Killer an effective post-emergent solution that targets actively growing grassy weeds. This ready-to-use formulation contains topramezone, which kills crabgrass, foxtail, barnyardgrass, and other troublesome grasses down to their roots. You’ll see weeds turn white within four to seven days after application, indicating the herbicide’s effectiveness. The 64-ounce container provides convenient spray-and-go application for treating problem areas in your lawn. Apply this product when temperatures range between 45°F and 90°F for ideal results, ensuring you’re targeting weeds during their active growth phases for maximum absorption and control.

Best For: Homeowners with established crabgrass and grassy weed problems in cool-season lawns who need a ready-to-use post-emergent herbicide that kills weeds down to the root.

Pros:

• Kills tough crabgrass and grassy weeds down to the root with visible results in 4-7 days
• Ready-to-use formulation requires no mixing and features convenient spray application
• Safe for use on popular cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and perennial ryegrass

Cons:

• Cannot be used on warm-season grasses like Bermuda, Zoysia, or St. Augustine grass
• Requires specific temperature conditions (45°F-90°F) and timing restrictions for optimal effectiveness
• Must avoid irrigation or rain for 24 hours after application and wait 3 weeks between reapplications

Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts Crabgrass Preventer (5,000 sq. ft.)

For large lawn enthusiasts seeking thorough crabgrass control, Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts delivers season-long protection across 5,000 square feet with a single 10.06-pound bag. This pre-emergent herbicide stops crabgrass before it germinates, eliminating the need for multiple treatments throughout the growing season. You’ll achieve superior results by applying this product in early spring, creating a protective barrier that prevents crabgrass establishment. The formula also works effectively as a fall application, targeting winter weeds like Poa annua, henbit, and chickweed before they emerge. However, you should avoid using this product on Dichondra and Bentgrass lawns, as these grass types can experience damage from the active ingredients.

Best For: Large lawn owners who want comprehensive, season-long crabgrass prevention without the hassle of multiple applications throughout the year.

Pros:

• Provides all-season crabgrass protection with just one application in early spring
• Covers a substantial 5,000 square feet per bag, making it cost-effective for larger properties
• Dual-purpose formula works for both spring crabgrass prevention and fall winter weed control

Cons:

• Cannot be used on Dichondra and Bentgrass lawns due to potential damage
• Requires precise timing in early spring for optimal effectiveness
• Only prevents weeds rather than treating existing crabgrass problems

0-0-7 Granular Prodiamine Pre-Emergent Herbicide Fertilizer (18lbs)

Prodiamine’s proven track record makes this 0-0-7 granular formula the ideal choice for homeowners seeking reliable, season-long crabgrass prevention across diverse grass types. With 0.37% prodiamine as its active ingredient, this 18-pound bag covers 6,000 square feet when applied at the recommended rate of three pounds per 1,000 square feet. You’ll appreciate its versatility across all major grass varieties, including Bermudagrass, Zoysia, St. Augustinegrass, and Tall Fescue, making it perfect for southern and transitional lawns. This pre-emergent effectively targets crabgrass and POA annua throughout different seasons, ensuring your lawn remains clean and healthy year-round.

Best For: Homeowners with diverse grass types who want reliable, season-long crabgrass and POA annua prevention across large lawn areas up to 6,000 square feet.

Pros:

• Compatible with all major grass varieties including Bermudagrass, Zoysia, St. Augustinegrass, and Tall Fescue
• Covers large area of 6,000 square feet with proven 0.37% prodiamine active ingredient
• Provides season-long prevention of crabgrass and POA annua for consistently clean lawns

Cons:

• Cannot be shipped to Maine or Iowa due to restrictions
• Requires precise application rate of 3 lbs per 1,000 sq ft for effectiveness
• 0-0-7 formula provides minimal nutritional value with only potassium and no nitrogen or phosphorus

Atticus Torocity Herbicide (8oz) – Mesotrione Concentrate Selective Weed Killer

Homeowners battling persistent crabgrass and broadleaf weeds will find Atticus Torocity Herbicide their most versatile weapon, offering both pre-emergent and post-emergent control in one concentrated formula. This 40% mesotrione concentrate works effectively on Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, and centipedegrass, providing broad-spectrum control against stubborn weeds like ground ivy, clover, and dandelions. You’ll appreciate the flexible application timing that extends your treatment window beyond traditional pre-emergent herbicides. While results require patience, often taking several weeks to manifest, the concentrated 8-ounce bottle delivers lasting value across multiple seasons.

Best For: Homeowners with established turf areas who need flexible weed control options for both preventing and eliminating persistent crabgrass and broadleaf weeds like clover, dandelions, and ground ivy.

Pros:

• Dual-action formula provides both pre-emergent and post-emergent weed control, offering more flexible application timing than standard herbicides
• Concentrated formula delivers long-lasting value with an 8-ounce bottle lasting multiple seasons at a lower cost than competing brands
• Broad-spectrum effectiveness against stubborn weeds while being safe for popular grass types including Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and perennial ryegrass

Cons:

• Results require significant patience as effectiveness often takes several weeks to become visible
• Not compatible with certain grass types including Bentgrass, Zoysiagrass, and actively growing Bermudagrass
• Limited availability with restrictions on sales in Alaska, Hawaii, and Vermont, and some stubborn weeds may require multiple applications

Liquid Harvest Mesotrione Weed Killer for Lawn and Turf (8oz)

Liquid Harvest Mesotrione stands out as an excellent choice for budget-conscious gardeners who need dual-action weed control, since it effectively targets both emerging and established weeds with a single application. This concentrated herbicide works by disrupting photosynthesis in 46 different weed species, including troublesome crabgrass, dandelions, and clover that commonly invade lawns. You’ll appreciate its compatibility with popular turf types like Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and St. Augustine grass, though you should avoid using it on bentgrass or zoysiagrass. Apply during cooler evening temperatures with a pump sprayer, then water within ten days for activation, and expect visible yellowing within 2-3 weeks as weeds gradually die.

Best For: Budget-conscious homeowners looking for a dual-action herbicide that works as both pre and post-emergent weed control on compatible turf types like Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and St. Augustine grass.

Pros:

• Targets 46 different weed species including crabgrass, dandelions, and clover with both pre and post-emergent action
• Safe for overseeding before or after application and compatible with most popular turf grass types
• Concentrated formula provides cost-effective weed control for budget-conscious gardeners

Cons:

• Not compatible with several grass types including bentgrass, zoysiagrass, and kikuyugrass
• Takes 2-3 weeks to show full results and may require multiple applications for resistant weeds like Dallis grass
• Users report it feels more diluted and less potent compared to premium alternatives like Tenacity

Factors to Consider When Choosing Crabgrass Pre Emergent Herbicide

I’ll help you select the most effective crabgrass pre-emergent herbicide by examining five critical factors that determine success in your lawn. Understanding the different active ingredient types, calculating your coverage area requirements, and timing your application windows properly will maximize your weed control results. We’ll also consider your specific grass type compatibility and the residual control duration you need for season-long protection.

Active Ingredient Types

Understanding the active ingredients in pre-emergent herbicides becomes essential when selecting the most effective product for your specific lawn conditions and timing needs. Prodiamine stands out as a versatile choice, offering reliable protection against crabgrass and poa annua in both spring and fall applications. I recommend dithiopyr for homeowners seeking dual functionality, as it prevents crabgrass germination while providing post-emergent control against young, emerging weeds. Quinclorac delivers fast absorption and broad-spectrum control, making it excellent for targeting multiple grassy and broadleaf weed species simultaneously. For newly seeded lawns, I suggest considering mesotrione-based herbicides, which offer both pre-emergent and post-emergent capabilities without harming new grass seedlings while effectively controlling stubborn weed varieties.

Coverage Area Requirements

Beyond selecting the right active ingredient, determining proper coverage area requirements guarantees you’ll achieve uniform crabgrass prevention across your entire lawn without creating vulnerable gaps. Most pre-emergent herbicides cover between 5,000 to 10,000 square feet, with smaller formulations targeting residential lawns and larger ones designed for expansive properties. I recommend calculating your lawn’s total square footage first, then checking product labels for application rates per 1,000 square feet to determine exactly how much herbicide you’ll need. Products covering larger areas often provide better cost efficiency, but you must confirm the formulation works effectively across your specific coverage zone. Always verify that your chosen herbicide’s coverage specifications accommodate both your lawn size and grass type requirements.

Application Timing Windows

Timing represents the single most critical factor in pre-emergent herbicide success, as applying too early or too late can completely undermine your crabgrass prevention efforts. I recommend applying in early spring before soil temperatures reach 55°F, which prevents crabgrass seeds from germinating effectively. Watch for natural indicators like forsythia blooms or daffodils in full bloom, as these signal the perfect application window for maximum effectiveness.

Fall applications deserve equal attention, particularly for preventing winter weeds like Poa annua and henbit from establishing during cooler months. Some products offer flexible timing options, allowing both pre-emergent and post-emergent use to accommodate your specific lawn care schedule. Always follow the application windows specified in product instructions, as these guarantee ideal effectiveness throughout the growing season.

Grass Type Compatibility

Which grass type grows in your lawn? I can’t stress enough how essential it is to match your pre-emergent herbicide with your specific grass variety, as compatibility directly affects both weed control and lawn health. Most products work safely with popular cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue, giving you reliable options for common lawn types. However, I’d caution you about sensitive varieties like Bentgrass or Dichondra, which require careful product selection to avoid damage. Warm-season grasses such as Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass often need specialized formulations designed for their unique growing patterns. Always check the product label for specific grass compatibility before application.

Residual Control Duration

One critical factor I always evaluate when selecting pre-emergent herbicides is their residual control duration, which determines how long the product actively prevents crabgrass germination in your soil. Most quality herbicides provide protection ranging from several weeks to multiple months, with premium products offering up to 30 days of consistent effectiveness. This extended control reduces your need for frequent reapplications during peak growing seasons, saving both time and money. However, environmental conditions like rainfall, temperature fluctuations, and soil moisture levels considerably influence how long these products remain active in your lawn. Some herbicides require irrigation or rainfall activation within specific timeframes to achieve ideal performance, so understanding your local climate patterns helps you time applications perfectly for maximum residual control.

On a final note

I’ve outlined the top pre-emergent herbicides that’ll keep crabgrass from invading your lawn this season. Whether you choose granular options like Scotts Halts or liquid concentrates like mesotrione-based products, timing remains essential for success. Apply these treatments before soil temperatures reach 50-55°F consistently, which typically occurs in early spring. Remember, prevention beats treatment every time, so don’t wait until you see weeds sprouting to take action against crabgrass.