Picture: amazon.com
A favourite of youngsters for his or her delicate seeds that take flight with a delicate puff of breath, dandelions are among the many challenges many house gardeners face in conserving their lawns lush and inexperienced. A single dandelion weed can produce as many as 10,000 seeds that float on the gentlest breeze, so a yard with just some dandelions can flip shortly right into a garden with a whole lot. A sensible plan of action is to kill the weeds earlier than they will propagate.
Normally, one of the best dandelion killer is one that may do away with the dandelions with out harming the encompassing grass. Nevertheless, if the dandelion infestation is widespread, gardeners could must kill all the garden and begin over. Forward, be taught what to search for when searching for a dandelion killer—probably the most poisonous just isn’t essentially your best option—and discover out why garden lovers prize the next herbicides for eradicating dandelion issues.
- BEST OVERALL: Eco Residing Options Natural Vinegar Weed Killer
- RUNNER-UP: Pure Parts Biodegradable Unhazardous Weed Killer
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Earth’s Ally Prepared-to-Use Weed & Grass Killer
- BEST FOR LARGE AREAS: BioSafe Concentrated Nonselective Weed & Grass Killer
- BEST PREVENTIVE: Espoma Natural Weed Preventer and Garden Meals
- ALSO CONSIDER: Physician Kirchner Pure Weed Killer
Picture: istockphoto.com
Earlier than Shopping for Dandelion Killer
Eradicating weeds that mar the look of a lush garden can really feel like a endless endeavor, however making use of a chemical herbicide or dandelion killer that kills the weeds isn’t the one possibility. In some situations, it could be the least fascinating possibility.
Making use of an herbicide will not be crucial if good garden upkeep practices are adopted, together with common watering to maintain the turfgrass thick and wholesome, which helps hold weed seeds from getting a foothold. Mowing earlier than a dandelion flower can go to seed may even assist.
With dandelions, it truly is a matter of an oz. of prevention being value a pound of treatment. A single vibrant yellow dandelion one yr may end up in dozens extra subsequent yr. Merely choosing the brilliant yellow flower earlier than it has an opportunity to go to seed is a step towards conserving the garden dandelion-free.
Additionally think about that dandelions are early bloomers and are sometimes a major supply of pollen for honey bees early in the summertime when different crops usually are not but blooming. For that cause, we strongly recommend utilizing a dandelion killer that gained’t hurt honey bees and different pollinators. Readers may even wish to take a look at our Tips on how to DIY Your Personal Dandelion Killer (under), which describes the right way to combine up a batch of dandelion-eradicating pure herbicide within the kitchen that may cease dandelions (and different weeds) of their tracks.
How We Selected the Greatest Dandelion Killers
The dandelion-killer merchandise we selected are all efficient, however they’re not probably the most poisonous in the marketplace. We extensively researched greater than three dozen completely different herbicides when deciding on those for this lineup. Not solely did the merchandise need to be efficient, however in addition they needed to be environmentally accountable.
The very best business weed killers or residential herbicides are made to use with a sprayer or a broadcast spreader, and every is straightforward to make use of. Some require just one or two purposes for long-term weed management.
Be suggested, nevertheless, that many of those merchandise are nonselective, which means they may kill any vegetation they arrive into contact with, so use them prudently. Spray solely the offending dandelions, and don’t spray the encompassing garden or close by crops. Keep away from treating the weeds on a windy day when overspray is prone to get on different crops.
Our High Picks
To qualify as a high choose, a dandelion killer should successfully eradicate the weed and be comparatively easy to make use of. The next herbicides are all made to regulate weeds, and every is effectively suited to numerous dandelion-killing conditions. Though there are extra extremely potent herbicides in the marketplace, in relation to dandelions, we really feel the next merchandise are extremely environment friendly and among the many least poisonous choices for pets, youngsters, and the setting.
Picture: amazon.com
To banish dandelions with out harsh chemical herbicides, think about Eco Backyard Professional Natural Vinegar Weed Killer. This pure dandelion killer options robust vinegar mixed with salt to pack a strong weed-walloping punch, which is why we chosen this choose for one of the best and strongest weed killer. Eco Backyard Professional weed killer is available in a 1-gallon ready-to-use liquid.
It is a nonselective herbicide, which means it is going to kill nearly all vegetation it touches. Take care to spray solely weeds, resembling particular person dandelions within the yard or weeds and undesirable grass rising between sidewalk joints or pavers. Don’t let overspray get on fascinating crops. This pure herbicide begins to work instantly, and outcomes typically may be seen inside 24 hours because the weeds start to wilt. Eco Backyard additionally gained’t leach dangerous chemical substances into the setting, making it among the best weed killer sprays out there for the eco-conscious shopper.
Product Specs
- Lively ingredient: Vinegar
- Selective or nonselective: Nonselective
- Sort: Prepared-to-use liquid
Professionals
- No dilution crucial; prepared to make use of proper out of the field
- Eco-friendly; appropriate for eco-conscious customers and houses with youngsters and pets
- Doesn’t harm or discolor driveways, walkways, patios, or brickwork
Cons
- Sprayer not included with product; separate buy required
Get the Eco Residing Options dandelion killer at Amazon or Eco Residing Options (4 1-gallon containers).
Picture: amazon.com
Customers gained’t have to fret about spraying harmful chemical substances of their yards with the Pure Parts Weed Killer. Like our high choose, this dandelion killer comprises sodium chloride (salt), industrial-strength vinegar, and cleaning soap to make fast work of killing undesirable weeds. It’s nonselective, although, which means it is going to kill weeds together with fascinating ornamentals and garden grass if it inadvertently will get on them.
Pure Parts Weed Killer is available in a 1-gallon jug, and it’s prepared to make use of—no diluting is critical. It could be utilized in both a pump sprayer or a trigger-type hand sprayer. The producer suggests spraying an ample quantity of the product on the weeds—sufficient to make them moist. Outcomes needs to be seen inside 24 hours.
Product Specs
- Lively ingredient: Vinegar, sodium chloride, and cleaning soap
- Selective or nonselective: Nonselective
- Sort: Prepared-to-use liquid
Professionals
- Protected to be used round pets and kids; made with salt, vinegar, and cleaning soap
- No dangerous chemical substances and no dilution crucial; prepared to make use of upon arrival
- Outcomes seen in lower than 24 hours; appropriate for fast-acting weed killing
Cons
- Sprayer not included with buy; could have to be purchased individually
Get the Pure Parts dandelion killer at Amazon or Pure Parts.
Picture: lowes.com
It doesn’t need to break the bank to kill undesirable dandelions. Earth’s Ally Weed & Grass Killer combines vinegar, salt, and cleaning soap into an reasonably priced answer that may kill dandelions and different undesirable weeds. The product is so highly effective, outcomes could also be seen in as little as 3 hours.
The ready-to-use liquid can be utilized in a garden-type pump sprayer or a set off sprayer. This nonselective herbicide will kill lawns and every other fascinating crops if it inadvertently will get on them, so take care to spray solely on the undesirable weed and keep away from spraying on a windy day.
Spray the weed till the foliage is saturated however not dripping to kill dandelions. Thankfully, the eco-friendly product just isn’t a menace to honey bees, however it may nonetheless irritate naked pores and skin whereas moist, so customers will wish to be sure that Earth’s Ally is totally dry earlier than letting youngsters and pets out to play.
Product Specs
- Lively ingredient: Sodium chloride, vinegar, and cleaning soap
- Selective or nonselective: Nonselective
- Sort: Prepared-to-use liquid
Professionals
- Gained’t hurt honey bees; appropriate for the eco-conscious shopper
- Made with pure elements; protected to be used round pets and youngsters
- No measuring or mixing crucial earlier than utilizing; can be utilized upon arrival
Cons
- Can kill or harm fascinating crops if overspray will get on them
Get the Earth’s Ally dandelion killer at Lowe’s, The Residence Depot, Goal, or Earth’s Ally.
Picture: amazon.com
If dandelions are uncontrolled and a big quantity should be eradicated, it could be finest to kill all of the vegetation within the affected space after which replant with garden grass or such floor cowl as clover or lilyturf. In such a case, think about turning to BioSafe Concentrated Nonselective Weed & Grass Killer. Though it is going to wipe out all of the crops it touches, together with the garden, it gained’t go away dangerous residue behind within the soil.
BioSafe dandelion spray is licensed by the Natural Supplies Overview Institute (OMRI), a nonprofit group that opinions and charges the environmental security of assorted merchandise. OMRI certification means BioSafe can be utilized the place natural crops are grown. Its energetic ingredient is ammonium nonanoate, additionally known as ammonium salt, a low-toxicity substance that won’t leach into the soil or be absorbed by the roots of different crops.
It is a nonselective dandelion killer for lawns and gardens, so keep away from making use of it on a windy day to scale back the danger of overspray. It comes as a concentrated liquid and may be utilized to deal with giant areas of dandelions and different weeds. Outcomes may be seen in 24 hours or sooner.
Product Specs
- Lively ingredient: Ammonium nonanoate
- Selective or nonselective: Nonselective
- Sort: Concentrated liquid
Professionals
- Protected to be used round organic-certified crops; they won’t turn into contaminated if uncovered to this herbicide
- Kills weeds and grass inside 24 hours; appropriate for fast-acting use
- Leaves no residue within the soil; washes away within the rain or over time
Cons
- Overspray will kill any fascinating crops throughout the rapid neighborhood
Get the BioSafe Techniques dandelion killer at Amazon.
Picture: amazon.com
Preserve new dandelions from popping up with Espoma weed preventer, which stops dandelion and different weed seeds from sprouting. Espoma is a pure product that doesn’t pose a well being danger to pets and people, and it gained’t pollute the setting. Espoma is pre-emergent, which means it retains seedlings from sprouting and rising. It comprises 100% corn gluten meal with a high-protein focus that stops seeds from germinating. Use this Espoma product on established lawns to maintain blown-in seeds from sprouting.
Espoma is available in granular kind and needs to be utilized with a broadcast spreader. Corn gluten additionally comprises nitrogen (a nutrient that makes grass inexperienced). The product can be utilized twice per yr, so for finest outcomes, apply in early spring and once more in midsummer.
Product Specs
- Lively ingredient:Corn gluten
- Selective or nonselective: N/A
- Sort: Pre-emergent
Professionals
- Pure, unhazardous product; protected for houses with youngsters and pets
- Retains dandelion seeds from sprouting after software; appropriate for long-term safety
- Environmentally pleasant system is not going to add toxins to the utilized space
Cons
- Doesn’t kill any present dandelions; will not be appropriate for some customers’ preferences
- Will hold fascinating seeds from sprouting if utilized straight or not directly
Get the Espoma dandelion killer at Amazon or True Worth.
Picture: florenmolamarts.com
Sodium chloride (salt) is the principle energetic ingredient on this pure weed killer that additionally comprises food-grade vinegar to kill quite a lot of weeds, together with undesirable dandelions. The product additionally comprises liquid cleaning soap, which acts as a surfactant (a sticking agent) to assist the answer adhere to the weed’s floor because it dries, rising its effectiveness.
Spray the ready-to-use answer straight on dandelions to saturate their leaves. Leads to the type of wilting could also be seen in just some hours. The product is protected to be used in yards the place pets and kids play, however whereas the answer is moist, it could trigger pores and skin irritation. Keep away from spraying throughout windy situations to scale back the danger of overspray on fascinating grass or different crops.
Product Specs
- Lively ingredient: Sodium chloride, vinegar, cleaning soap
- Selective or nonselective: Nonselective
- Sort: Prepared-to-use liquid
Professionals
- Eco-friendly system; protected to be used round youngsters and pets
- Outcomes may be seen in just a few hours; appropriate for fast-acting weed killing
- No mixing or measuring required earlier than use; can be utilized proper upon arrival
Cons
- Overspray will kill fascinating crops positioned within the rapid neighborhood
Get the Physician Kirchner dandelion killer at Florenmola Marts or Physician Kirchner.
Or, DIY Your Personal Dandelion Killer
Shopping for a business weed-killing product isn’t all the time essential to do away with dandelions. A protected weed killer may be made at house with just a few reasonably priced merchandise which might be typically already readily available within the pantry.
Gardeners can comply with this straightforward recipe to make their very own answer. Clearly label and retailer any leftover in a cool, darkish spot, resembling a basement or underneath a sink. It ought to stay viable for as much as 5 years.
Pour 1 cup of white vinegar right into a clear plastic bucket or pail. Stir in 1 cup of desk salt and 1 tablespoon of liquid dish cleaning soap. Combine till the salt dissolves. Add in a gallon of water and stir to mix. That’s it! Pour the ready-to-use answer right into a set off spray bottle or a pump sprayer. Apply on to dandelions and different undesirable weeds, however don’t let overspray get on grass or fascinating crops, because it may kill them, too.
Our Verdict
Any weed killers featured on this lineup will do job of killing dandelions with out damaging the setting or making a poisonous danger. Whereas there are different merchandise out there for this function, resembling Scotts Turf Builder Triple Motion Kills Dandelions and Evaluate-N-Save 2, 4-D Amine Broadleaf Weed Killer, these merchandise don’t meet our sustainability pointers and usually are not really useful as a result of they comprise chemical substances that aren’t protected to be used round individuals and pets.
What to Contemplate When Selecting a Dandelion Killer
Dandelions are categorized as broadleaf weeds due to their large, flat leaves that unfold out alongside the bottom within the form of a dinner plate. Not like many weeds with shallow root programs, dandelions develop lengthy faucet roots extending as deep as 2 toes or extra into the bottom, making them nearly not possible to drag out. Efficiently eliminating this invasive weed normally requires making use of an herbicide.
Substances
Chemical herbicides have been some extent of competition and debate for years, and though they’ve a number of benefits, in addition they have drawbacks.
Alternatively, natural herbicides comprise solely pure elements. They gained’t leach poisonous chemical substances into the setting, and so they additionally sometimes are much less potent than their artificial chemical cousins. Eco-safe dandelion-killer merchandise could comprise a number of of the next elements:
- Salt: Similar to desk salt however with out iodine.
- Vinegar: Could also be concentrated to as a lot as six occasions stronger than family vinegar.
- Important oils: Widespread important oils embody clove, cinnamon, and wintergreen.
- Soaps: Dish cleaning soap and pure detergents or fatty cleaning soap acids.
- Plant byproducts: Corn gluten or cornstarch containing proteins that cease weed seeds from sprouting.
Selective vs. Nonselective
Some herbicides are “nonselective,” which implies they may kill nearly any vegetation they arrive into contact with. Different herbicides kill just one or just a few forms of crops and are known as selective herbicides as a result of they gained’t hurt different forms of crops.
Weed-and-feed-type merchandise are selective herbicides as a result of they kill broadleaf weeds resembling dandelions however gained’t hurt turfgrass. Selective herbicides work equally to pulling up a single weed by hand. A nonselective herbicide is extra like operating a weed whacker.
If an herbicide negatively impacts soil well being, the product states how a lot time ought to elapse earlier than planting within the handled spot, starting from just a few days after therapy to a yr or longer. Apart from one pre-emergent product that stops dandelion seeds from sprouting in our lineup, the herbicides instructed on this information are nonselective and needs to be utilized to weeds solely.
Format
Dandelion-killing merchandise can be found in several codecs, every suited to particular forms of infestations and private preferences.
- Spray bottle: Among the many easiest types of herbicide for killing dandelions, spray herbicides are available a helpful spray bottle for making use of straight on the offending weeds.
- Liquid focus: For yards with many dandelions, it could be simpler and less expensive to buy a concentrated liquid to use utilizing a pump-type sprayer.
- Powder: Powdered herbicides can be utilized in two methods: dusting with a duster or dissolving in water and making use of with a sprayer.
- Granules: This herbicide requires a broadcast spreader or drop spreader. Relying on the product, the granules could kill present weeds or stop new weed seeds from sprouting.
Software Security Ideas
The important thing to utilizing any kind of herbicide safely is to plan forward and scale back human and animal publicity. Although chemical herbicides current probably the most danger to people, pets, and the setting, extremely concentrated pure weed killers can irritate pores and skin and kill fascinating crops if not utilized with care. Gardeners will wish to use the next security suggestions to assist make sure the protected use of the product for the setting and all concerned.
- Learn and comply with label directions: This may’t be emphasised strongly sufficient. Although most high quality merchandise have directions to be used, the labels on chemical-based herbicides are federally regulated and bear the phrase: “It’s a violation of federal regulation to make use of this product in a way inconsistent with its labeling.”
- Put on eye safety: Normally, a pair of sun shades will suffice for eye safety, but when it’s breezy, go for goggles with facet safety.
- Defend pores and skin:Put on lengthy sleeves and lengthy pants to maintain the product from contacting naked pores and skin.
- Watch for calm: Winds greater than 8 miles per hour are too robust to regulate herbicide spray.
- Wash afterward: After making use of herbicide, wash fingers and different uncovered pores and skin. Develop into clear garments after software.
- Stroll backward: Quite than strolling ahead over a newly sprayed garden, which nearly ensures getting the herbicide on clothes and sneakers, stroll backward to scale back the danger of contact with the product.
- Keep off: Totally different merchandise advise customers to maintain pets, youngsters, and adults off the garden till the herbicide not poses a well being danger, which might be a few hours or just a few days within the case of poisonous herbicides. Pure herbicide merchandise sometimes pose a danger of pores and skin irritation solely whereas they’re moist. When the answer dries, it’s protected to let the youngsters and pets out to play.
- Be affected person: It’s irritating to spray dandelions after which see them wanting wholesome the following day, however many herbicides take just a few days to work. Relying on the product, it could take so long as 2 weeks.
FAQs
You now know that broadleaf herbicides may help hold a garden free from dandelions, however should you nonetheless need extra details about whether or not the merchandise are protected for yards, people, pets, and the setting, learn on. Under are solutions to among the hottest questions on dandelion killers.
Q. Why ought to I take away dandelions from my garden?
You don’t need to! Dandelions gained’t hurt the soil, and their deep roots may help stop erosion on sloped areas. Nevertheless, just a few dandelions this summer season can flip into a whole lot subsequent summer season, detracting from the look of a lush, inexperienced garden. The easiest way to maintain them out of a garden is to do away with them once they first seem.
Q. Are dandelion killers protected?
It depends upon the product. Pure and natural herbicides are protected for the setting however could pose well being dangers to pets and people whereas they’re moist. Chemical herbicides additionally could pose well being dangers throughout software and till the chemical substances are absorbed within the soil.
Q. How do I kill dandelions however not the grass in my backyard?
Many wonderhow to kill dandelionswithout harming different crops and foliage round their backyard or house. The very best methodology is to deal with solely the dandelions with a weed killer and take care to not get the answer on the encompassing grass.
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