Maintaining a lush St Augustine grass lawn requires effective weed control, especially against persistent crabgrass. Choosing the right crabgrass killer that is safe for St Augustine grass can be challenging due to the grass’s sensitivity. This guide highlights some of the best crabgrass killers specifically formulated for St Augustine grass, ensuring you get reliable weed control without damaging your lawn.
| Product | Brand | Effectiveness | Application Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Ag 006130 Atrazine St. Augustine Weed Killer 32oz | Southern Ag | Controls broadleaf weeds and crabgrass suppression | 32 oz (Treats 3,720 sq ft) |
| Southern Ag Atrazine St. Augustine Grass Weed Killer, 1 Gallon | Southern Ag | Kills broadleaf weeds, suppresses crabgrass | 1 Gallon |
| Roundup for Lawns Crabgrass Destroyer2, 64 oz. | Roundup | Kills crabgrass and grassy weeds to the root | 64 oz. Ready-to-use |
| Fertilome St. Augustine Weed & Feed 15-0-4 (12.8 lbs.) | ferti-lome | Pre and post-emergent weed control with fertilization | 12.8 lbs. |
| BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer, Concentrate 64 oz. | BASF | Broad-spectrum crabgrass and broadleaf weed control | 64 oz. Concentrate |
Southern Ag Atrazine St. Augustine Weed Killer 32oz
This 32-ounce specialty herbicide by Southern Ag is designed to treat up to 3,720 sq ft, making it suitable for medium-sized St Augustine lawns. It specializes in controlling a variety of weeds while being safe for both St. Augustine and Centipede grasses. The formula targets crabgrass as well as broadleaf weeds effectively. The package weight is just over one kilogram, and it’s an ideal choice for homeowners looking for a reliable post-emergent weed killer that suppresses crabgrass without harming the lawn.
Southern Ag Atrazine St. Augustine Grass Weed Killer 1 Gallon
This 1-gallon Atrazine formula by Southern Ag offers extensive coverage and is perfect for larger St Augustine lawns. It kills many broadleaf weeds and is also suitable for Centipede grass. Although not a dedicated crabgrass killer, this product provides good suppression of crabgrass when applied as directed. It is ideal for users seeking broad-spectrum weed control combined with safety for their warm-season grass.
Roundup for Lawns Crabgrass Destroyer2, Tough Weed Killer, 64 oz.
Roundup’s 64-ounce ready-to-use crabgrass killer is specifically formulated to kill crabgrass and grassy weeds to the root. While it is designed for cooler-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and ryegrass, its powerful formula makes it a notable mention for tough crabgrass control. This product targets pesky weeds such as foxtail and goosegrass and is fast-acting. Note that usage on St Augustine grass should be cautious, following label directions to avoid damage.
Fertilome St. Augustine Weed & Feed 15-0-4 (12.8 lbs.)
This product combines a pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicide with a 15-0-4 fertilizer mix, specifically formulated for St Augustine, Centipede, and Zoysia grasses. It provides both weed control and lawn nutrition, helping prevent crabgrass and treat existing weeds simultaneously. It is not recommended for Bermuda grass or northern grasses, focusing on warm-season grasses common in southern lawns.
BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer for Lawn & Turf Concentrate 64 oz.
BASF’s Drive XLR8 features a water-based formulation for fast uptake and superior biocontrol of crabgrass, foxtail, and other grassy and broadleaf weeds in turfgrass. The concentrate provides up to 30 days of residual control, reducing the need for frequent applications. It is effective on key broadleaf weeds like dandelion and clover, making it a versatile, professional-grade choice for maintaining weed-free St Augustine turf.
Buying Guide For Crabgrass Killers Suitable For St Augustine Grass
Grass Type Compatibility
St Augustine grass is sensitive to certain herbicides. Before choosing a crabgrass killer, ensure the product label specifies its safe use on St Augustine grass. Some crabgrass killers formulated for cool-season grasses can damage St Augustine lawns.
Weed Spectrum
Look for products targeting crabgrass specifically, along with broadleaf weeds such as dandelion, clover, and chickweed. A product with broad-spectrum control will maintain overall lawn health and appearance.
Timing And Application
Crabgrass can be controlled pre-emergence or post-emergence. Pre-emergent herbicides prevent seeds from germinating, ideal in early spring. Post-emergent herbicides kill existing crabgrass. Some products combine both actions, providing comprehensive control.
Coverage Area And Concentration
Consider the size of your lawn to select appropriate container size and product concentration. Concentrates may require mixing but often offer better value for large areas. Ready-to-use sprays are simpler for smaller lawns.
Environmental Impact And Safety
Choose herbicides with lower environmental toxicity and follow all safety guidelines, including wearing protective gear. Products with water-based formulations or fast rainfast times minimize runoff risks.
Additional Lawn Care Benefits
Some crabgrass killers also come with fertilizer blends, feeding your St Augustine grass while controlling weeds. These two-in-one products can simplify lawn maintenance but verify nutrient balance is suitable for your lawn’s needs.
Residual Control
Residual activity varies by product. Some herbicides offer up to 30 days or more of weed suppression, which reduces reapplication frequency and helps maintain a cleaner lawn over time.