10 Best Herbicides for Bermuda Grass That Actually Work

I’ve found that effective Bermuda grass control requires selective herbicides like BAYER CROP SCIENCE’s Ready-To-Spray formula, which targets Bermudagrass in cool-season lawns without harming fescue or bluegrass. Gordons Ornamec 170 stops grass growth within 48 hours and covers 5,000 square feet, while BASF Drive XLR8 provides 30-day extended control. Monterey Turflon Ester excels against tough, actively growing Bermuda and kikuyugrass. These proven options deliver visible results within 1-4 weeks when you explore their specific applications.

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Notable Insights

• BAYER CROP SCIENCE provides selective Bermuda grass control in cool-season lawns with ready-to-spray convenience covering 5,000 square feet.
• Monterey Turflon Ester effectively eliminates tough, actively growing Bermuda grass while protecting desirable grasses across 20,000 square feet coverage.
• Most herbicides show visible results within 1-4 weeks when applied to actively growing weeds during optimal timing conditions.
• Concentrate formulas like BASF Drive XLR8 require proper mixing but offer extended control for up to 30 days.
• Application timing is critical as these herbicides only work effectively on actively growing Bermuda grass, not dormant weeds.

BAYER CROP SCIENCE Bermudagrass Control for Lawns Ready-To-Spray (32-Ounce)

If you’re managing a cool-season lawn that’s being invaded by aggressive Bermudagrass, the BAYER CROP SCIENCE Bermudagrass Control for Lawns Ready-To-Spray offers selective control that protects your desirable grass while targeting the unwanted invaders. This 32-ounce herbicide treats up to 5,000 square feet, making it suitable for most residential lawns with fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, or perennial ryegrass. The ready-to-spray formula connects directly to your garden hose, eliminating mixing requirements and reducing application time considerably. You’ll notice results within 8-9 days, though complete control requires multiple treatments throughout the growing season for ideal effectiveness.

Best For: Homeowners with cool-season lawns (fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, or perennial ryegrass) who need to selectively control invasive Bermudagrass without damaging their existing desirable grass.

Pros:

• Ready-to-spray formula connects directly to garden hose for quick, easy application without mixing
• Selective herbicide that safely targets Bermudagrass while protecting cool-season grasses
• Rainproof after just 1 hour and covers up to 5,000 square feet per 32-ounce bottle

Cons:

• Requires multiple treatments throughout the growing season rather than providing one-time elimination
• Controls but doesn’t completely eradicate Bermudagrass, leading to ongoing treatment cycles
• Can become expensive due to the need for continuous applications and potential lawn recovery efforts

Gordons Ornamec 170 Grass Herbicide, 32 Ounces

Gordons Ornamec 170 Grass Herbicide becomes your ideal solution when you need precise grass control around ornamental plants, shrubs, and trees without risking damage to your valuable landscape investments. This selective herbicide contains fluazifop-P-butyl as its active ingredient, effectively targeting over 400 labeled grass species while protecting your ornamental plantings. You’ll see results quickly, as grass growth stops within 48 hours and complete elimination occurs within one to three weeks. The concentrated formula mixes easily at 10 ounces per gallon of water, making application straightforward for both established landscapes and newly transplanted areas. You can confidently use this herbicide around groundcovers and decorative plants without fear of accidental damage.

Best For: Homeowners and landscapers who need to eliminate grass around ornamental plants, shrubs, trees, and groundcovers without damaging their valuable landscape plantings.

Pros:

• Selective herbicide that targets over 400 grass species while protecting ornamental plants from damage
• Fast-acting formula that stops grass growth within 48 hours and achieves complete elimination in 1-3 weeks
• Concentrated formula that mixes easily at 10 ounces per gallon, providing good coverage and value

Cons:

• Limited to grass control only and won’t eliminate broadleaf weeds or other non-grass vegetation
• Requires careful mixing and application to achieve proper concentration and effectiveness
• May need multiple treatments for established or stubborn grass varieties to achieve complete elimination

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

Homeowners battling persistent crabgrass invasions in their Bermuda grass lawns will find BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer delivers the targeted control they need. This concentrate features quinclorac as its active ingredient, providing broad-spectrum control against troublesome weeds like crabgrass, foxtail, and dandelion. You’ll appreciate the water-based formulation that guarantees faster plant uptake and quicker visible results compared to oil-based alternatives. The extended residual control lasts up to 30 days, reducing your application frequency while remaining rainfast within one hour. This versatile herbicide works effectively on both warm-season and cool-season turf types, making it suitable for residential lawns and commercial properties alike.

Best For: Homeowners and property managers dealing with persistent crabgrass and other broadleaf weeds in both warm-season and cool-season lawns who want fast-acting, long-lasting control with reduced application frequency.

Pros:

• Water-based formulation provides faster plant uptake and quicker visible results than oil-based alternatives
• Extended 30-day residual control reduces application frequency and becomes rainfast in less than one hour
• Broad-spectrum control targets multiple weed types including crabgrass, foxtail, dandelion, clover, and bindweed

Cons:

• Requires proper safety equipment including long sleeves, pants, and chemical-resistant gloves for application
• State-specific restrictions limit usage in some areas like New York where only spot treatments are permitted
• Concentrate formulation requires careful mixing according to label instructions for different turf types

Hi-Yield (35261) Triclopyr Ester (8oz)

Hi-Yield Triclopyr Ester stands out as a selective herbicide that targets broadleaf weeds while preserving cool-season grasses, making it an excellent choice for homeowners managing mixed lawn areas near Bermuda grass sections. This liquid concentrate effectively controls stubborn perennial and annual broadleaf weeds, including oxalis and wild violet, that commonly invade turf areas. You’ll find it works best on perennial bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue ornamental turf, where it can also function as a bluegrass suppressor. However, you must avoid applying this product directly on Bermuda grass, as it’s specifically restricted for bahiagrass, bentgrass, bermudagrass, centipedegrass, St. Augustine, and zoysiagrass lawns.

Best For: Homeowners with cool-season grass lawns (perennial bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, or tall fescue) who need to control stubborn broadleaf weeds like oxalis and wild violet.

Pros:

• Selective herbicide that effectively targets broadleaf weeds while preserving desirable cool-season grasses
• Controls difficult perennial and annual broadleaf weeds including oxalis and wild violet
• Can also function as a bluegrass suppressor for managing mixed turf areas

Cons:

• Cannot be used on warm-season grasses including Bermuda, St. Augustine, Zoysia, and other popular southern lawn types
• Application rates vary based on grass type and area dimensions, requiring careful label reading
• Limited to cool-season grasses only, restricting its versatility for diverse lawn types

Monterey Turflon Ester Specialty Herbicide with Measuring Spoon (8 oz)

Cool-season grass owners who struggle with persistent bermudagrass invasion will find Monterey Turflon Ester Specialty Herbicide particularly effective for reclaiming their lawns. This post-emergent herbicide targets actively growing bermudagrass, kikuyugrass, and troublesome broadleaf weeds like oxalis, clover, and wild violet without harming your desirable perennial bluegrass, ryegrass, or tall fescue. You’ll appreciate the convenient 8-ounce bottle with included measuring spoon, which makes accurate dilution straightforward for spray tank application. One pint covers an impressive 20,000 square feet, delivering excellent value for larger properties. However, you must exercise caution to prevent spray drift from contacting flowerbeds or ornamental plants, as this herbicide will damage non-target broadleaf vegetation.

Best For: Cool-season grass owners dealing with persistent bermudagrass, kikuyugrass, and broadleaf weed invasions in perennial bluegrass, ryegrass, or tall fescue lawns.

Pros:

• Effectively eliminates tough weeds like bermudagrass and kikuyugrass without damaging desirable cool-season grasses
• Excellent coverage value with one pint treating up to 20,000 square feet of lawn area
• Includes measuring spoon for convenient and accurate dilution preparation

Cons:

• Risk of damaging flowerbeds and ornamental plants if spray drift occurs during application
• Only works on actively growing weeds that have already emerged, requiring precise timing
• Limited to cool-season turf types and cannot be used on warm-season grass varieties

Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D WEED KILLER, 32oz – Quart

Property owners managing large acreage will find Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D Weed Killer exceptionally well-suited for their broadleaf weed control needs. This concentrated herbicide delivers impressive coverage, treating vast areas at low application rates of 1 to 4 pints per acre. You’ll appreciate its effectiveness against stubborn broadleaf weeds like dandelions, chickweed, and clover while preserving your Bermuda grass. The product requires dilution at 1 to 1.5 ounces per gallon of water, making it economical for extensive applications. You can expect noticeable results within 48 hours, though multiple applications may enhance overall effectiveness for persistent weed problems.

Best For: Property owners managing large acreage who need an economical, concentrated herbicide for controlling broadleaf weeds like dandelions, chickweed, and clover while preserving grass.

Pros:

• Exceptional coverage at low application rates (1-4 pints per acre) making it highly economical for large areas
• Fast-acting results visible within 48 hours of application
• Effective on stubborn broadleaf weeds while being safe for grass like Bermuda

Cons:

• Requires dilution and mixing, making it less convenient than ready-to-use products
• Not safe for pets during application until the product dries completely
• May require multiple applications (3-4) for optimal effectiveness on persistent weeds

Prime Source Celsius WG – 0.226 oz Easy Mix Packet-Post Emerge Weed Control

Prime Source Celsius WG stands out as an exceptional choice for homeowners and professionals who need extensive weed control without compromising their established Bermuda grass lawns. This powerful post-emergent herbicide combines three active ingredients—dicamba, iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium, and thiencarbazone-methyl—to eliminate over 120 annual and perennial broadleaf weeds and grasses effectively. You’ll notice weed growth stops within hours, while visible color changes appear within one to four weeks when applied during ideal conditions above 60°F. Each convenient 0.226-ounce packet mixes easily with four gallons of water, covering approximately 2,500 square feet of lawn area.

Best For: Homeowners and professionals seeking powerful post-emergent weed control for Bermuda grass lawns who need to eliminate over 120 types of annual and perennial broadleaf weeds and grasses.

Pros:

• Triple-action formula with three active ingredients provides comprehensive control of over 120 weed types with visible results in 1-4 weeks
• Convenient pre-measured packets eliminate guesswork and mix easily with 4 gallons of water to cover 2,500 square feet
• Fast-acting formula stops weed growth within hours and maintains high customer satisfaction with 4.3 out of 5 stars from 920 reviews

Cons:

• Can cause temporary yellowing or damage to sensitive grass types, particularly St. Augustine and Centipedegrass
• Effectiveness decreases significantly in suboptimal conditions like heavy dew, fog, or when temperatures are below 60°F
• Product efficacy may diminish over time if not used within 3-5 years of purchase, requiring timely application after buying

Ornamec® Over-The-Top Grass Herbicide, 1 Quart, 7781086

When invasive grasses threaten your carefully cultivated ornamental beds, Ornamec® Over-The-Top Grass Herbicide emerges as a precision tool that delivers targeted control without compromising your prized plantings. This selective herbicide stops unwanted grass growth within 48 hours, achieving complete control in 1-3 weeks while protecting over 400 ornamental species. You’ll effectively eliminate tough grasses like bermudagrass, crabgrass, and dallisgrass with the simple application rate of one ounce per gallon of water, mixed with Aqua-Zorb surfactant for superior absorption. The over-the-top application method reduces labor-intensive hand-weeding, making maintenance more efficient and manageable for your landscape.

Best For: Gardeners and landscapers who need to eliminate invasive grasses like bermudagrass, crabgrass, and dallisgrass from ornamental beds without damaging over 400 species of desirable plants.

Pros:

• Stops unwanted grass growth within 48 hours and achieves full control in 1-3 weeks
• Safe for over 400 ornamental plant species with over-the-top application method
• Reduces labor-intensive hand-weeding while effectively controlling tough, invasive grasses

Cons:

• May cause temporary stunting of desired grass that requires watering and fertilization for recovery
• Requires mixing with Aqua-Zorb surfactant for proper efficacy, adding complexity to application
• Perennial grasses may require reapplication in spring when emerging from dormancy

Gordons Ornamec 170 Grass Herbicide, 32 Ounces

Gardeners battling persistent Bermuda grass invasions in ornamental beds will find Gordon’s Ornamec 170 Grass Herbicide delivers targeted control with remarkable precision. This 32-ounce concentrate contains fluazifop-p-butyl, which effectively eliminates emerged annual grasses like crabgrass and foxtails while tackling stubborn perennials including Bermuda, quack, and Johnson grass. You’ll see grass growth stop within 48 hours, with complete death occurring in one to three weeks when applied to young, actively growing plants. The formula treats up to 5,000 square feet and works safely over 400 ornamental species, making it ideal for landscape beds and fence lines where selective grass control is essential.

Best For: Gardeners dealing with invasive grass species like Bermuda grass in ornamental beds, landscape areas, and fence lines who need selective herbicide control that won’t harm most ornamental plants.

Pros:

• Effectively controls both annual grasses (crabgrass, foxtails) and stubborn perennials (Bermuda, quack grass) with visible results in 48 hours
• Safe for use around 400+ ornamental plant species with low risk of injury when applied over-the-top
• Covers up to 5,000 square feet per bottle and includes pre-blended surfactant for convenience

Cons:

• May cause stress to certain turf grasses like St. Augustine and Tall Fescue, requiring careful application
• Often requires multiple applications for complete control of persistent invasive grasses
• Some users find additional surfactant necessary for optimal spring application results

Celcius WG Herbicide 6666194

CELSIUS WG Herbicide stands as the premium solution for homeowners and professionals who demand thorough weed control across warm-season turf areas, including bermuda grass lawns, golf courses, and sports fields. This postemergent herbicide combines three active ingredients to target both annual and perennial broadleaf weeds and grasses effectively. You’ll find it controls stubborn weeds like clover and crabgrass while allowing your bermuda grass to flourish. Although the initial cost runs higher than alternatives, you’ll use minimal amounts per application, and the results last several growing seasons. The preparation requires a non-ionic surfactant, but once you master the mixing process, you’ll achieve professional-grade weed elimination across your warm-season lawn.

Best For: Homeowners and professionals who need long-lasting, broad-spectrum weed control for warm-season turf areas like bermuda grass lawns, golf courses, and sports fields.

Pros:

• Effective against a wide range of stubborn weeds including clover and crabgrass while allowing warm-season grass to thrive
• Minimal amount needed per application with results lasting several growing seasons, providing excellent long-term value
• Professional-grade three active ingredient formula designed specifically for warm-season turf types

Cons:

• Higher initial cost compared to alternative herbicide products
• Requires specific preparation including a non-ionic surfactant which can complicate the mixing process
• Learning curve for proper application preparation that some users find difficult to understand initially

Factors to Consider When Choosing Herbicide for Bermuda Grass

When I’m selecting the right herbicide for your Bermuda grass, several critical factors will determine your success and protect your lawn’s health. You’ll need to identify your specific target weeds, guarantee the herbicide won’t damage Bermuda grass, and choose active ingredients that match your application preferences. I’ll guide you through coverage requirements, application methods, and safety considerations to help you make an informed decision that achieves effective weed control.

Target Weed Types

Because Bermuda grass behaves as both an aggressive perennial and self-seeding annual weed, selecting the right herbicide requires understanding which specific weed characteristics you’re targeting in your lawn. I recommend focusing on products that address Bermuda’s dual nature, as this persistent grass spreads through underground rhizomes and above-ground stolons while also producing viable seeds. You’ll need herbicides with active ingredients like Fluazifop-P-butyl or Quinclorac, which effectively target both growth patterns without damaging your desired turf species. I’ve found that selective formulations work best, since broadleaf herbicides won’t impact grassy weeds like Bermuda. Remember that targeting both perennial root systems and annual seedlings guarantees thorough control, preventing this invasive grass from establishing or re-establishing in your lawn through multiple reproduction methods.

Grass Compatibility Safety

Protecting your existing lawn while eliminating Bermuda grass requires careful herbicide selection, since many products that kill this invasive species can also damage or destroy your desirable turf. I’ve learned that cool-season grasses like Fescue, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Perennial Ryegrass are particularly vulnerable to herbicides designed for warm-season weed control. You’ll need to review application restrictions carefully, as compatibility varies considerably between different turfgrass species and herbicide formulations. Some products are selectively formulated to target Bermudagrass while remaining safe for ornamental species, making them ideal for diverse landscaping situations. Even compatible herbicides can stress certain grass types, so I recommend timing applications properly and following up with adequate watering and fertilization to support recovery and maintain overall lawn health.

Active Ingredient Selection

Beyond selecting herbicides that won’t harm your existing turf, the active ingredient determines how effectively you’ll eliminate Bermuda grass from your lawn. I recommend focusing on proven ingredients like fluazifop-P-butyl and quinclorac, which specifically target unwanted grass varieties while preserving your desirable cool-season grasses. These selective herbicides work systemically, meaning they’re absorbed through the leaves and travel throughout the plant’s structure to eliminate it completely. Look for fast-acting formulations that halt grass growth within 48 hours, as you’ll see visible results in one to three weeks. Products offering 30-day residual control reduce your application frequency, saving time and effort. Always verify that your chosen active ingredient is compatible with your specific turf type to prevent accidental damage to healthy grass.

Application Method Preferences

When you’re ready to tackle Bermuda grass, your application method directly impacts both the effectiveness of your treatment and the convenience of your overall experience. I recommend considering hose-end sprayers for quick, widespread coverage, especially when you need to treat large areas up to 5,000 square feet efficiently. These attachment systems eliminate mixing requirements and deliver consistent results across your lawn.

For precision work around desirable plants, I prefer tank mixing with pump sprayers, which gives you complete control over application rates and targeting. Over-the-top selective herbicides work exceptionally well with this method, minimizing damage to surrounding vegetation while effectively controlling Bermuda grass.

Consider products that show results within 48 hours and offer excellent rainfastness once properly applied, ensuring your efforts aren’t wasted by unexpected weather.

Coverage Area Requirements

Three key factors determine your herbicide coverage needs: lawn size, product concentration, and application efficiency requirements. I’ve found that understanding these elements helps you select the most cost-effective herbicide for your specific situation. Products designed for large lawns typically cover up to 5,000 square feet per application, while specialized formulations for ornamental gardens handle smaller, confined areas more precisely.

When I calculate coverage requirements, I consider both initial application needs and potential retreatment schedules. Efficient coverage planning prevents overbuying expensive herbicides while ensuring complete Bermudagrass control across your entire lawn. Products with higher coverage capacity often reduce the total number of applications needed, leading to significant cost savings over time. Always match the herbicide’s specified coverage area to your lawn’s actual square footage for best results.

Speed of Results

How quickly do you need Bermuda grass eliminated from your lawn? Your timeline expectations will determine which herbicide approach works best for your situation. Some products, like Gordons Ornamec 170, deliver impressive results by stopping grass growth within 48 hours, though complete elimination takes one to three weeks. Other herbicides show visible damage within eight to nine days after application, giving you encouraging signs that the treatment is working effectively.

However, I must emphasize that Bermuda grass control rarely happens with a single application. Most situations require multiple treatments over several weeks or months to achieve complete eradication. The grass’s aggressive growth pattern and deep root system make it particularly resilient, so patience and persistence are essential for long-term success in your lawn management efforts.

Residual Control Duration

Understanding how long your chosen herbicide continues working after application will greatly impact your overall treatment strategy and budget planning. I’ve found that residual control duration varies dramatically between products, ranging from just a few days to several weeks of protection. The most effective herbicides I’ve tested provide up to 30 days of continuous control against targeted grass species, which greatly reduces reapplication frequency and overall maintenance costs.

Environmental factors like temperature and rainfall directly influence how long your herbicide remains active in the soil. I always consider these conditions when timing applications to maximize effectiveness. By selecting herbicides with extended residual properties, you’ll develop a more extensive weed management strategy that’s specifically tailored to your Bermuda grass and lawn conditions.

Environmental Weather Conditions

When you’re planning your herbicide application, weather conditions can make the difference between successful Bermuda grass control and a disappointing, ineffective treatment. I recommend applying herbicides when temperatures consistently stay above 60°F, as this guarantees the Bermuda grass is actively growing and will readily absorb the product. You’ll want to check the forecast carefully, avoiding applications when rain is expected within 24 hours, since precipitation can wash away the herbicide before it penetrates the grass effectively. Early morning dew or heavy fog can also dilute the active ingredients on grass blades, reducing their potency markedly. Choose days with warm, dry conditions following application, as consistent heat promotes faster herbicide action and delivers the visible results you’re seeking for your lawn.

On a final note

I’ve covered ten proven herbicides that’ll help you tackle bermuda grass effectively, from ready-to-spray options like Bayer’s formula to concentrated solutions like Drive XLR8. Remember that timing, application method, and your specific lawn conditions all matter when selecting the right product. Take time to read labels carefully, follow safety guidelines, and consider factors like grass type and weather conditions. With the right herbicide and proper technique, you’ll achieve the bermuda-free lawn you want.