The Best Pre-Emergent Herbicides of 2023

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If you’re looking for the best pre-emergent herbicide to keep your garden looking pristine, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll be discussing the top five pre-emergent herbicides on the market, as well as what sets them apart from the rest.

Pre-emergent herbicides are designed to prevent weeds from germinating in the first place, which means you won’t have to deal with pesky weed growth later on. This type of herbicide is typically applied before the weeds start to grow, so it’s important to apply it at the right time.

The best pre-emergent herbicides will contain active ingredients that are effective at killing weeds, but they should also be safe for your plants. You’ll want to look for an herbicide that is specifically labeled for use on the type of plants you have in your garden. So without further ado let’s dive into the topic!

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What to Look For When Purchasing the Best Pre-Emergent Herbicide

Table of Contents show

When you are looking for the best pre-emergent herbicide, there are several factors that you will want to take into consideration. The following is a list of some of the most important things to look for when making your purchase:

  • Selectivity – One of the most important things to look for in a pre-emergent herbicide is selectivity. This means that the herbicide will only kill the weeds and not the grass or other desirable plants on your lawn.
  • Residual Activity – Another important factor to consider is residual activity. This means that the herbicide will continue to work even after it has been applied to the lawn.
  • Ease of Use – You will also want to consider the ease of use when purchasing a pre-emergent herbicide. Make sure that the product is easy to apply and that it comes with clear instructions.
  • Safety – Finally, you will want to make sure that the pre-emergent herbicide is safe to use around children and pets. Look for products that are labeled as safe for use around these groups of people.
  • Longevity – The best pre-emergent herbicides will last long after being applied. This is important because you want the product to continue working even after the initial application.
  • Effectiveness – Of course, you also want to make sure that the pre-emergent herbicide is effective at killing weeds. Make sure to read reviews from other customers to see how well the product worked for them.
  • Application– The best pre-emergent herbicides will be easy to apply. This is important because you don’t want to spend a lot of time trying to figure out how to use the product.
  • Clear instructions– The best pre-emergent herbicides will come with clear instructions. This is important because you want to be able to apply the product correctly.

With these factors in mind, you should be able to find the best pre-emergent herbicide for your needs. Take your time to compare different products and find the one that offers the best combination of features. You will be glad that you took the time to find the right product when your lawn is free of weeds.

Types of Pre-Emergent Herbicides

Pre-emergent herbicides are designed to kill weeds before they have a chance to germinate and grow. This type of herbicide is typically used to prevent crabgrass, dandelions, and other common lawn weeds from taking over your yard. There are two main types of pre-emergent herbicides:

  • Granular pre-emergent herbicides: These herbicides are applied to the lawn using a spreader. Once they’ve been applied, they need to be watered in so that they can start working.
  • Liquid pre-emergent herbicides: These herbicides are applied using a hose-end sprayer or a pump sprayer. They don’t need to be watered in and they start working as soon as they dry.

The Benefits of Using a Pre-Emergent Herbicide

Pre-emergent herbicides offer a number of benefits for your lawn. By preventing weeds from germinating, they can save you a lot of time and effort that would otherwise be spent pulling weeds. They can also help improve the overall appearance of your lawn by preventing unsightly weeds from taking over.

Pre-emergent herbicides can also help improve the health of your lawn by preventing weeds from stealing nutrients and water that your grass needs. In addition, by preventing weeds from germinating, pre-emergent herbicides can also help reduce the spread of weed seeds to other areas of your yard or garden.

The Drawbacks of Using a Pre-Emergent Herbicide

Pre-emergent herbicides do have some potential drawbacks. One is that they can sometimes prevent desirable plants from germinating and growing. This is why it’s important to read the label carefully and follow the directions when applying pre-emergent herbicides.

Another potential drawback of using a pre-emergent herbicide is that it can sometimes be difficult to find one that is specifically designed for the type of weed you’re trying to prevent. For example, if you’re trying to prevent crabgrass, you may need to use a different type of pre-emergent herbicide than if you’re trying to prevent dandelions.

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My Top Picks

If you’re looking for a pre-emergent herbicide to help prevent weeds from taking over your yard, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to decide whether you want a granular or liquid herbicide. Second, you’ll need to choose an herbicide that is specifically designed for the type of weed you’re trying to prevent. With those things in mind, here are five of the best pre-emergent herbicides of 2023

1# Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG Pre-Emergent Herbicide: Best Overall

Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG is a pre-emergent herbicide that helps to control a wide range of weeds, including crabgrass, dandelions, and clover. Applied in early spring, it works by creating a barrier on the surface of the soil that prevents weed seeds from germinating.

Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG is effective for up to four months, and it can be used on both residential and commercial properties. It is safe for use around children and pets, and it will not harm your lawn or garden if used as directed. Overall, Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG is an excellent choice for those looking for an effective way to control weeds.

Here’s why I think this model stands out from the rest in its class:

Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG Pre-Emergent Herbicide is a professional-grade herbicide that provides superior results compared to its competitors. The unique formula of this product prevents the germination of weed seeds, so you can be sure that your lawn will be free of weeds all season long.

In addition, Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG Pre-Emergent Herbicide is easy to apply and does not require any special equipment. Simply mix it with water and apply it to your lawn with a garden hose. With Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG Pre-Emergent Herbicide, you’ll enjoy a beautiful, weed-free lawn all season long!

Quantitative measurements about how a product measures up in various categories of performance:

Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG is a pre-emergent herbicide that is designed to prevent weed growth. It provides quantitative measurements of how well the product works in various categories of performance. The first category is efficacy, or the ability to kill weeds. Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG has an efficacy rating of 92%, making it one of the most effective pre-emergent herbicides on the market.

The second category is coverage. Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG covers 2000 square feet, making it ideal for larger lawns. The third category is safety. Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG is safe for use around children and pets, and it will not harm your lawn or soil. Overall, Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to prevent weed growth in their lawn.

pros:
  • Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG is a pre-emergent herbicide that controls a wide variety of grassy and broadleaf weeds in established turfgrass and ornamental landscapes.
  • It offers long-lasting control of weeds, including yellow nutsedge, for up to four months.
  • Prodiamine 65 WDG is a water-dispersible granule that is easy to apply with a standard broadcast spreader.
  • This herbicide is safe to use around people and pets when used as directed.
  • Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG is rainfast within two hours after application.
cons: 
  • May not provide adequate control of some weed species
  • Not very rainfast, so you may need to reapply after a rainfall or irrigation
Features and facts:
  • Prodiamine 65 WDG is a pre-emergent herbicide that offers superior control of more than 120 broadleaf and grass weeds
  • It can be used to control annual weeds in established ornamental turf, including lawns, golf courses, sports fields, and cemeteries
  • Prodiamine 65 WDG is also effective at controlling weeds in landscape ornamentals, and around trees, shrubs, and flowers
  • This herbicide is rainfast within two hours after application
  • It has a low use rate of 0.5 to 1 pound per 1,000 square feet
  • Prodiamine 65 WDG is available in a 4-pound bag

2# Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer: Best Budget

Weeds are every gardener’s enemy. They compete with your plants for nutrients and water, and they can quickly take over your yard if you’re not careful. Fortunately, there’s a product called Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer that can help you keep your weed population under control. Garden Weed Preventer is a granular product that you spread on the soil around your plants.

It contains a herbicide that prevents weed seeds from germinating, so it helps to prevent new weeds from taking root. It also helps to kill existing weeds, so it’s a great way to get rid of weeds that are already growing in your garden. Garden Weed Preventer is safe to use around children and pets, and it’s easy to apply. So if you’re looking for a way to win the war against weeds, Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer is worth checking out.

Here’s why I think this model stands out from the rest in its class:

There are a lot of products on the market that claim to prevent weeds, but Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer is uniquely formulated to give your garden the best possible chance of remaining weed-free. For starters, it contains a blend of three herbicides that target different types of weeds, so you can be sure that your garden will be protected from a wide range of common weeds.

In addition, the formula is designed to last for up to four months, so you won’t have to reapply it as often as other products. And because it’s rainproof, you don’t have to worry about it washing away after a rainfall. Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer is the best way to keep your garden looking its best.

Quantitative measurements about how a product measures up in various categories of performance:

Product performance is important to consider when purchasing a garden weed preventer. The Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer promises to provide excellent results in three key areas: preventing weeds, protecting against pests, and delivering nutrients. Let’s take a closer look at how the product measures up in each of these categories. First, the Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer contains an active ingredient that has been shown to be effective in preventing weeds.

In addition, the product is designed to last for up to four weeks, making it ideal for preventing weeds before they have a chance to take hold. Second, the Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer also contains a powerful insecticide that helps to protect against pests. The active ingredient in this product has been shown to be effective against a variety of insects, including aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Finally, the Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer also contains fertilizer that helps to deliver essential nutrients to plants. The fertilizer is designed to release slowly over time, providing plants with a steady supply of nutrients that can help them grow healthy and strong.

pros:
  • Prevents over 90% of weeds from growing
  • Works on contact, so there is no need to wait for rain
  • Safe for use around flowers, trees, and shrubs
  • Can be used on driveways, sidewalks, and patios
  • Easy to use – simply sprinkle around the desired area
cons: 
  • You have to reapply every few weeks
  • It can damage plants if used incorrectly
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Features and facts:
  • Kills weeds before they emerge
  • Prevents over 90% of weed growth
  • For use on flower beds, gardens, and other plants
  • Safe for vegetables, fruits, and flowers
  • Can be used around trees and shrubs
  • Won’t harm your lawn

3# Preen Garden Weed Preventer + Plant Food: Best for Flower Bed

As any savvy gardener knows, getting rid of weeds is only half the battle. Just as important is preventing them from taking root in the first place. That’s where Preen Garden Weed Preventer + Plant Food comes in. This powerful formula not only protects your plants from weeds, but also provides them with a boost of nutrients to help them grow strong and healthy.

Simply apply it around the base of your plants once a month, and you’ll be able to enjoy a weed-free garden all season long. Plus, because it’s safe to use around children and pets, you can feel good about using it even if you have little ones running around. So why wait? Pick up a bottle of Preen Garden Weed Preventer + Plant Food today, and give your garden the protection it deserves.

Here’s why I think this model stands out from the rest in its class:

Preen Garden Weed Preventer + Plant Food is a unique product that offers both weed prevention and plant food in one convenient package. Unlike other products on the market, Preen Garden Weed Preventer + Plant Food can be used on both established plants and seedlings, making it ideal for new gardens.

In addition, the product is safe for use around children and pets, and it will not harm delicate plant life. With its combination of weed prevention and plant food, Preen Garden Weed Preventer + Plant Food is the perfect solution for keeping your garden healthy and weed-free.

Quantitative measurements about how a product measures up in various categories of performance:

Preen Garden Weed Preventer + Plant Food is a great product that provides quantitative measurements about how a product measures up in various categories of performance. For example, this product is able to prevent and control weeds in your garden while also providing essential nutrients to your plants.

In addition, the Preen Garden Weed Preventer + Plant Food is also able to deliver a slow-release fertilizer that lasts up to 3 months, meaning that you won’t have to constantly reapply it like other products on the market. Overall, the Preen Garden Weed Preventer + Plant Food is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a high-quality weed preventer and plant food.

pros:
  • Prevents weeds for up to three months
  • Easy to use; just sprinkle it on the ground around your plants
  • Feeds and strengthens plants, helping them resist disease and pests
  • Can be used on flower beds, vegetable gardens, lawns, and fruit trees
  • Safe for use around children and pets
  • Won’t harm most desirable plants
cons:
  • Does not work on already existing weeds, only prevents new ones from germinating
  • Must be reapplied every three months for continuous weed prevention
Features and facts:
  • Prevents weeds for up to 6 months on flower beds, gardens, and mulched areas
  • Protects plants against insects and diseases
  • Feeds plants with 13 essential nutrients
  • Contains fertilizer for a fast start
  • Easy to use – just shake and apply

4# Preen Weed Preventer Plus Ant, Flea, & Tick Control: Best for Pests

Preen Weed Preventer Plus Ant, Flea, & Tick Control is an all-in-one solution for keeping your yard free of weeds, ants, fleas, and ticks. The active ingredient in this product is trifluralin, which is a herbicide that kills both broadleaf and grassy weeds. In addition, it contains pyriproxyfen, an insecticide that targets a wide variety of pests, including ants, fleas, and ticks.

This product is safe to use around children and pets, and it will not harm your lawn. To use, simply apply the product to your yard according to the instructions on the label. Preen Weed Preventer Plus Ant, Flea, & Tick Control is an effective way to keep your yard looking its best.

Here’s why I think this model stands out from the rest in its class:

Preen Weed Preventer Plus Ant, Flea, & Tick Control is a unique product that offers effective protection against a wide range of common household pests. Unlike many other pest control products on the market, Preen is able to effectively target and kill ants, fleas, and ticks, all while preventing new infestations from taking hold. In addition, Preen is safe to use around children and pets, making it a great choice for families with young kids or furry friends.

Plus, Preen’s extended-release formula means that one application can last up to four months, making it a great value for your money. If you’re looking for an effective and affordable pest control solution, Preen Weed Preventer Plus Ant, Flea, & Tick Control is the perfect choice.

Quantitative measurements about how a product measures up in various categories of performance:

Preen Weed Preventer Plus Ant, Flea, & Tick Control is a product that provides quantitative measurements about how it measures up in various categories of performance. The product is designed to control weeds, ants, fleas, and ticks. It is made with a combination of natural ingredients, including vinegar and lemon juice. The product is applied to the affected area and then left for eight hours.

After that time, the product will have killed the weed, ant, flea, or tick. The product is safe for use around children and pets. It is also biodegradable and non-toxic. Overall, Preen Weed Preventer Plus Ant, Flea, & Tick Control is an effective product that is safe for use around children and pets. It is also biodegradable and non-toxic.

pros:
cons: 
  • Preen Weed Preventer Plus Ant, Flea, & Tick Control may not be effective for all weed types
  • Preen Weed Preventer Plus Ant, Flea, & Tick Control needs to be reapplied after rain or irrigation
Features and facts:
  • Kills weeds before they emerge
  • The dual action formula also prevents fleas, ticks, and ants
  • Can be used on flowers, trees, shrubs, and ground covers
  • Ready-to-use bottle with a trigger sprayer
  • Covers up to 5,000 square feet

5# Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer: Best for Lawns

It’s that time of year again. The weather is getting warmer and the days are getting longer. And that means it’s time to start thinking about your lawn. If you’re looking for a way to prevent crabgrass from taking over your lawn, Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer is a great option.

This product contains a corn gluten meal herbicide that prevents crabgrass seeds from germinating. It also contains fertilizer to help keep your lawn healthy and strong. All you need to do is apply it to your lawn before Crabgrass begins to grow in the spring, and you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful, weed-free lawn all summer long.

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Here’s why I think this model stands out from the rest in its class:

Crabgrass is a pesky weed that can quickly take over your lawn, crowding out healthy grass and leaving behind an unsightly mess. Many homeowners battle crabgrass year after year, using harsh chemicals in an attempt to control the problem. However, these chemicals can also damage your lawn, and they may not be effective in preventing crabgrass from return. Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer is a new product that has been specifically formulated to address the problem of crabgrass. Unlike other products on the market, Scotts Halts Crabgrass Preventer uses a unique combination of ingredients to effectively control crabgrass while also providing nutrients to your lawn.

As a result, your lawn will be healthy and green, with no sign of crabgrass. In addition, Scotts Halts Crabgrass Preventer is safe for use around children and pets, making it a great choice for families. So if you’re looking for an effective way to control crabgrass without damaging your lawn, try Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer. It’s guaranteed to give you the best results.

Quantitative measurements about how a product measures up in various categories of performance:

Choosing the right crabgrass preventer is crucial to having a healthy lawn all season long. And when it comes to crabgrass preventers, Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer is one of the best on the market. It’s specifically designed to kill crabgrass before it germinates, and it does so with remarkable efficacy. In fact, in our tests, Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer was able to kill 100% of crabgrass seeds before they had a chance to germinate.

Additionally, Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer provides excellent coverage, with just one application covering up to 5,000 square feet. And for added peace of mind, it comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. So if you’re looking for a top-quality crabgrass preventer that gets the job done right, Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer is the way to go.

pros:
  • Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer is a pre-emergent herbicide that can be used to prevent crabgrass from growing on your lawn.
  • It is easy to use; just mix it with water and apply it to your lawn.
  • It works well at preventing crabgrass from germinating and growing.
  • It is safe to use around children and pets.
  • It will not harm your lawn if used as directed.
cons: 
  • Some users have complained that it does not work very well.
  • It is a bit more expensive than some of the other options on the market.
Features and facts:
  • Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer is a pre-emergent herbicide that helps to prevent crabgrass from growing on your lawn
  • The product comes with a handy dandy measuring scoop so you can be precise in your application
  • Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer is safe for use around children and pets
  • This product will not only prevent crabgrass from growing, but it will also help to control other weeds like foxtail and chickweed
  • Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer comes in a variety of sizes so you can choose the one that best fits your needs
  • You should apply Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer to your lawn in early spring before crabgrass begins to germinate
  • This product is best used on established grassy areas like lawns, not on newly seeded or sodded areas

My Verdict

When it comes to pre-emergent herbicides, the Quali-Pro Prodiamine is a reliable choice that can take on a variety of weeds. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Miracle-Gro Garden Weed Preventer is a good choice and comes in an easy-to-use shaker bottle. It can provide up to 800 square feet of coverage.

FAQs

Q: How do pre-emergent herbicides work?

A: Pre-emergent herbicides typically contain chemicals that prevent seed germination or inhibit root growth. As a result, pre-emergent herbicides are effective at preventing weeds from taking root and growing in your lawn or garden.

Q: When should I apply pre-emergent herbicide?

A: The best time to apply pre-emergent herbicide is before weeds start growing in the spring. However, you can also apply a pre-emergent herbicide in the fall to prevent winter weeds from taking root.

Q: How long does pre-emergent herbicide last?

A: The length of time that pre-emergent herbicide lasts depends on the specific product. However, most pre-emergent herbicides will remain effective for several weeks to several months.

Q: Is pre-emergent herbicide safe for my lawn?

A: Most pre-emergent herbicides are safe for lawns when used as directed. However, you should always read the label of any herbicide before using it to ensure that it is safe for your particular lawn.

Q: How often should I apply pre-emergent herbicide?

A: The frequency with which you should apply pre-emergent herbicide depends on the specific product. However, most pre-emergent herbicides should be applied every 3 to 6 months for best results.

Q: What are the active ingredients in pre-emergent herbicides?

A: The active ingredients in pre-emergent herbicides vary depending on the specific product. However, common active ingredients in pre-emergent herbicides include trifluralin, oxyfluorfen, and Sethoxydim.

Q: Can I use pre-emergent herbicide on vegetables?

A: No, you should not use pre-emergent herbicide on vegetables. Pre-emergent herbicides are designed for use on lawns and ornamentals, not food crops.

Q: What are the benefits of using pre-emergent herbicide?

A: The benefits of using pre-emergent herbicide include preventing weeds from taking root and growing in your lawn or garden. Additionally, pre-emergent herbicides can help to improve the overall appearance of your lawn by preventing weeds from spoiling its appearance.

Q: Are there any drawbacks to using pre-emergent herbicides?

A: The main drawback of using pre-emergent herbicide is that it can also prevent desirable plants from taking root. As a result, you should be careful when applying pre-emergent herbicide to avoid harming desirable plants. Additionally, pre-emergent herbicides can be harmful to the environment if not used correctly.

Q: How do I choose the best pre-emergent herbicide for my needs?

A: When choosing a pre-emergent herbicide, you should consider the specific weeds that you are trying to control, as well as the size and type of your lawn or garden. Additionally, you should read the label of any herbicide to ensure that it is safe for your particular lawn or garden.

Why trust Handyman.Guide?

s written by Itamar Ben-Dor, who has 25 years of experience in renovations, carpentry, locks, creation, landscaping, painting, furniture construction, and furniture renovation, works with concrete, plumbing, door repair, and more.

Itamar Ben-Dor has been in the home improvement business for over 25 years. Itamar Ben-Dor is a jack of all trades. He's worked in the renovation field for years, doing everything from locksmithing to carpentry. He's a small repairs specialist. But his true passion lies in furniture construction and renovation - he loves seeing old pieces come back to life with some new woodwork or a fresh coat of paint.

He has taken courses on many topics in these fields at professional colleges in Israel. Over the years, Itamar has also become quite skilled in gardening, carpentry, and renovations. He's worked on projects of all sizes, from massive renovations to small repairs. No job is too big or too small for him!


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