Maintaining a healthy centipede grass lawn requires effective weed control solutions that target pesky crabgrass and broadleaf weeds without damaging the turf. This guide highlights top post emergent herbicides designed for centipede grass, focusing on their strengths and application features to help you choose the best product for your lawn care needs.
| Product | Brand | Weed Control Type | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer | BASF | Post Emergent Grassy & Broadleaf | Variable (64 oz. concentrate) |
| Mesotrione Weed Killer Concentrate | Petra | Post & Pre Emergent Broadleaf & Crabgrass | Variable (8 oz. concentrate) |
| Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts | Scotts | Pre Emergent Grassy Weed Preventer | 5,000 sq. ft. |
| Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer | Scotts | Pre-Emergent Weed Killer + Fertilizer | 14,000 sq. ft. |
| Bonide Dura Turf Crabgrass Pre-Emergent | Bonide | Pre Emergent Weed Control | 5,000 sq. ft. |
BASF Drive XLR8 Crabgrass Killer for Lawn & Turf
BASF Drive XLR8 offers an advanced post emergent solution effective against both grassy and broadleaf weeds in centipede grass lawns. Its unique water-based formulation enhances absorption, resulting in faster weed control. The product provides up to 30 days of residual weed protection and becomes rainfast in under an hour, ensuring reliability even in unpredictable weather.
- Controls a broad spectrum of weeds including crabgrass, foxtail, and key broadleaf invaders like clover and dandelion
- Extended 30-day residual control reduces frequency of applications
- Water-based formula enhances turf safety and fast action
- Concentrated 64-ounce size for customized usage
Mesotrione Weed Killer Concentrate for New & Existing Lawns
The Mesotrione Weed Killer Concentrate by Petra is an excellent choice combining post and pre emergent action to manage crabgrass and a diverse range of broadleaf weeds effectively. Ideal for centipede grass, it simplifies lawn care with an easy spray application and is formulated to ensure even lawn coverage for maximum efficiency.
- Tackles tough summer weeds such as dandelion, clover, and yellow nutsedge
- A dual pre and post emergent formula provides comprehensive lawn protection
- Liquid concentrate designed for easy, hassle-free spray application
- Supports both new lawn seeding and established turf maintenance
Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts Crabgrass Preventer
Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts is a pre-emergent crabgrass preventer designed to stop weeds before they appear. Best applied in early spring or fall, it also targets winter weeds including Poa annua and henbit, protecting centipede grass throughout the growing season for healthier turf.
- Specifically formulated for season-long crabgrass prevention
- Preventive approach reduces the need for later post emergent treatments
- Application in early spring or fall targets both summer and winter weeds
- Coverage area of up to 5,000 square feet per application
Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer with Lawn Food
Combining pre-emergent weed control with lawn fertilization, the Scotts Turf Builder Halts helps prevent crabgrass invasion while promoting lawn green-up after winter. Its formula covers broad weed types beyond crabgrass including barnyard grass, foxtail, and oxalis, making it a comprehensive lawn care product for centipede grass.
- Prevents a variety of grassy and broadleaf weeds
- Includes fertilizer for enhanced turf health and recovery
- Designed for application on dry lawns in early spring for optimal results
- Covers a large area of up to 14,000 square feet per use
Bonide Dura Turf Crabgrass and Weed Preventer
Bonide Dura Turf provides reliable pre-emergent weed control that works throughout the entire growing season. Suitable for both cool- and warm-season grasses such as centipede grass, it is ready to use and can be applied later in the spring compared to other preventers, extending your weed protection window.
- Effective single-application crabgrass and weed prevention for up to four months
- Granular format ensures easy spread and uniform coverage
- Application flexibility allows treatment up to 4 weeks later than usual pre-emergents
- Covers up to 5,000 square feet of turf or garden area
Buying Guide for Post Emergent Weed Killers for Centipede Grass
Choosing the right post emergent herbicide for centipede grass involves understanding the unique needs of your turf and the types of weeds you are combating. Here are several factors to consider:
Effectiveness Against Specific Weeds
Target weed spectrum varies between products. Some focus on crabgrass alone, while others cover a broader range of grassy and broadleaf weeds such as clover, dandelion, and foxtail. Identify the primary weed issues in your lawn and select a herbicide formulated to address those specifically.
Post Emergent vs. Pre Emergent Control
Post emergent herbicides treat weeds after they have appeared, while pre emergent products prevent weed seeds from germinating. For centipede grass, combining both approaches may offer the best protection, but if you have established infestations, post emergents with fast action and residual control are essential.
Safety for Centipede Grass
Centipede grass is sensitive to some herbicides. Choose formulations labeled safe for warm-season grass types to avoid turf damage. Products with water-based or selective formulas often provide safer results.
Application Method and Frequency
Consider whether a liquid concentrate or granular product fits your lawn care routine better. Liquid sprays often offer quicker results, while granular options can be easier to apply for large areas. Also, check the recommended frequency to maintain effective control without overapplication.
Coverage Area
Select a product with coverage matching your lawn size. Larger bags or concentrates with dilution control allow customization, reducing waste and cost.
Additional Lawn Benefits
Some products include fertilizers or turf builders that not only prevent weeds but also support grass health and recovery. These can be valuable in early spring treatments for thicker, greener centipede grass.