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Best Weed Killer For Dandelions

Best Choice
Espoma Organic Weed Preventer
4.5/5
Editor's Choice
Speed Zone Broadleaf Herbicide for Turf
5/5
Best Overall
Doctor Kirchner Natural Weed & Grass Killer
5/5

Weed control is no easy task, especially when you are dealing with invasive weeds like dandelions. Selecting the best weed killer for dandelions can save you tremendous time compared to manually pulling them out.

Dandelion flowers can grow in multitudes if you aren’t careful. The older dandelion plants shed seeds all over your turf, resulting in new dandelion weeds.

In our gardening guides, we will discuss the best weed killer for dandelion flowers and the factors you should consider before investing your money in one or more of the following products.

If you are interested to learn more about how to kill dandelions with the right weed killer, keep on reading!

Top Picks for the Best Weed Killer for Dandelions

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1. Espoma Organic Weed Preventer

Espoma Organic Weed Preventer may be of interest to farmers and landscapers who have grown their flower beds and want to keep dandelion weeds out. 

Corn gluten, a common natural pre-emergent herbicide, is a component of this non-selective granular formulation.

Additionally, it is easy to use. In a flower garden, sprinkle the granules over the bare soil and then softly water the area to let them break down and form a barrier.

Sprinkle corn gluten meal over the dirt in the flower bed before covering it with ornamental mulch if you’re using it.

This organic product will work the same manner in a flower bed by helping to prevent dandelion weed seeds from sprouting, even though it is marketed and sold primarily to prevent weeds from growing in an established lawn. 

It will not kill dandelions however. To use this organic product, grown dandelions must be removed.

2. Speed Zone Broadleaf Herbicide for Turf

Popular broadleaf weed killer Speedzone EW is second on our list of the top dandelion killers for a good reason. 

It is a fantastic 4-way selective herbicide that is absorbed through roots and leaf tissue. 

Speedzone is one of the greatest dandelion killers because in addition to 2,4-D, it also contains carfentrazone for immediate noticeable results on grassy and broadleaf weeds. an all-purpose broadleaf weed killer that is frequently applied to lawns.

You can see visible results within just a few hours of application. In fact, you can control weeds like dandelions within 7 days of active treatment with Speed Zone.

However, the only drawback is that this dandelion killer is not usable for all warm season grasses.

3. Doctor Kirchner Natural Weed & Grass Killer

Doctor Kirchner’s weed killer is one of the best organic dandelion killers, ready to use from the bottle. You can rest easy knowing that Doctor Kirchner’s is prepared from ocean seawater, commercial-grade, premium vinegar and soap. Thus, unlike synthetic dandelion killers, this one will not harm the environment.

This formula for killing dandelions is very simple to apply. All you have to do is spray the weed killer into the dandelion petals and leaves until they are damp. 

There is still more environmental safety to be had. Even the container for this weed killer is environmentally friendly. It uses less plastic than comparable products.

The acetic acid residue disappears quickly and has no negative effects on the health of the soil or groundwater. It is safe for aquatic life, pets, children, and animals like pollinators, according to their website.

You can apply this weed killer whenever there are apparent weeds. Anytime you notice weeds growing in cracks pavers, flower beds, etc., you can use it to effectively spot kill.

4. Natural Elements Weed Killer

The Natural Elements Weed Killer users won’t have to worry about spraying harmful chemicals in their yards. 

This solution comprises sodium chloride and industrial-strength vinegar which can kill weeds without wasting any time. However, keep in mind that this dandelion killer is non-selective.

If it accidentally comes into contact with your precious flowers, turf, fruits, or vegetables, it will also destroy their foliage.

The 1-gallon jug of Natural Elements Weed Killer contains ready-to-use weed killer solution. There is no need to dilute it. It can be put to use in a hand sprayer with a trigger or a pump sprayer. 

Spraying enough of the product to completely cover the weeds with moisture is advised by the manufacturer. You will see the results within a day.

Additionally, this dandelion killer is safe to use around children or your pets as it is a natural weed killer and does not contain harmful chemicals. The only drawback is that it doesn’t come with a sprayer attachment.

5. BioSafe Systems 7601-1, BioSafe Weed & Grass Killer

The BioSafe Systems formula is specifically designed to combat dandelion weeds that are out of control and spread over a large patch of land. In such situations, it is recommended that you remove all the plants and other vegetation from the area, and replant.

This solution can target broadleaf weeds and other weeds but also wipes out other vegetation that it comes into contact with, including yellow flowers, bermuda grass, etc. The good thing is that it won’t leave behind any harmful residue that could impact the replanting phase.

BioSafe is 100% OMRI certified, which means that you can even use this solution where you grow organic crops and other plants.

Keep in mind that this is a non-selective dandelion killer so make sure you don’t pour it on windy days to avoid risk of over-spraying. After treatment, you can see the results within 24 hours!

6. ITS Supply T-Zone Turf Herbicide

The TZone dandelion and broadleaf herbicide is a great solution for unwanted weeds. It consists of active ingredients such as Dicamba, 2,4-D, and sulfentrazone. This makes it a strong, 4-way dandelion killer that is extremely potent.

More importantly, it shows quick and effective results thanks to sulfentrazone. You can use it against other broadleaf weeds during early spring such as clover and nutsedge.

This solution for existing dandelions does not require a separate non-ionic surfactant. However, the biggest drawback of this is that it can be hard to find! The TZone solution is not available in every U.S. state.

Different Types Of Dandelion Killers

The internet is full of different solutions for killing weeds such as dandelions. Without guidance or proper research, picking the right dandelion killer for your garden can be quite daunting. If you are struggling with rampant weed growth and want a quick solution, be sure to check out our guide on the best liquid weed killer for lawns

The first step is to understand and familiarize yourself with the different types of dandelion killers available in the market.

Selective Herbicide Vs. Non-Selective Best Dandelion Killers

Both non-selective and selective herbicides work well to get rid of weeds like dandelions, but each has advantages and disadvantages.

A selective herbicide is a must-have if you want to get rid of dandelions without damaging any of the nearby grass or plants. Selective herbicides harm a small number of plant species while killing broadleaf weeds like dandelions. Just be careful to double-check the list of plants it targets by examining the label of the selective herbicide you purchase before using it!

Although non-selective herbicides are typically more powerful, they harm any grass or plant they come into contact with. This is a great alternative if you need to clean large areas, such as driveways, walks, or walkways, of dandelions.

Dandelion Killer Spray Vs. Granulated Herbicide

Dandelion liquid spray effectively gets rid of weeds and has many benefits, including being easy to use and store. Sprays are designed to be applied directly to the leaves and stems of dandelion plants, and because they offer comprehensive coverage, this is a fantastic way to eradicate weeds in broad areas. 

The best way to apply weed killer over large areas is with a backpack or portable sprayer. You can also read more about our best weed sprayer here for easy application of weed killer solution.

Remember that before using a sprayer, you must first measure the product and diluted it with water, which may be messy for some. Second, pick a day with little to no wind and calm conditions. This is due to the possibility that spray particles could land in areas where you do not want to spray due to a gust of wind.

Another efficient method to stop the growth or spread of weeds like dandelions is to use lawn granules. These tiny pellets can be dispersed by hand or with a spreader and are easy to apply to the desired places.

Granules must adhere to the vegetation in order for the herbicide to be absorbed in order for a post-emergent product to be effective. To achieve the optimum benefits, the grass must be moist before application.

Organic Weed Solution to Kill Dandelions

To eradicate undesired and invasive plants, organic herbicides exclusively use natural components. There is a huge selection of organic weed killers available, many of which are made specifically to get rid of dandelions efficiently and securely. 

They are also meant to be gentler to the environment, as well as to humans and animals, but carefully read the label to eliminate any ambiguity or potential concerns.

In order to prevent the growth of undesirable weeds, organic weed killers frequently contain substances like vinegar, salt, soap, and other natural ingredients.

The risk and potential consequences of pets being exposed to the harmful chemicals present in some kinds of herbicides are another major issue.

Although the majority of herbicides advise preventing pets from being near treated areas for up to two days, pet owners are aware that this isn’t always an option.

Fortunately, there are several organic weed killer choices available that are completely safe to use around both people and animals. The best approach to keep pets safe and stop the growth of dandelions is to use an organic, pet-friendly weed killer if you have any.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Dandelion Killer for Your Home or Garden

Dandelions are classified as broadleaf weeds because of their flat leaves that stretch out across the soil. They can invade your turf as well as precious flower beds. Read more about the best weed killer for flower beds.

Dandelions grow long tap roots that can reach as deep as 2-3 feet into the earth, unlike many weeds that have shallow root systems. This makes them extremely difficult to manually pull out. 

Using a herbicide is the most effective way to get rid of this invasive weed. Below are some key factors you should keep in mind before purchasing a dandelion killer.

Selective vs. Nonselective Dandelion Weed Killers

Herbicides can be “nonselective,” which means that they will kill any plant they come in contact with. 

Different types of herbicides, known as selective herbicides, won’t harm other plant species. Selective herbicides will only destroy one or a small number of plant species. Their main focus is eliminating different types of weeds.

Selective herbicides, such as weed-and-feed solutions kill broadleaf weeds like dandelions but do not harm turfgrass. Selective herbicides function similarly to manually removing a single weed. 

Pick the best dandelion killer that is suited for your garden and weed control. If a herbicide impacts your soil health and quality negatively, you can read the label to check how long the residue will remain and when you can plant again in the treated spot.

Ingredients of the Dandelion Weed Killer

Chemical herbicides often get a bad reputation for their synthetic ingredients that may or may not always be harmful to humans and other wildlife. However, much like any other herbicide, these also come with advantages and disadvantages.

As an alternative, organic herbicides are made entirely of natural components. They are often less strong than their synthetic chemical counterparts and won’t leak harmful compounds into the environment. The following substances may be found in eco-friendly weed control products for dandelion seeds.

Firstly, vinegar is one of the most common ingredients found in organic dandelion killers. However, the industrial-grade vinegar in weed killers is 6-7 times stronger than ordinary household vinegar.

Another key ingredient found in organic weed control solutions is soap. Dish soap, fatty acids, etc., are a great repellent for weeds. 

Essential oils from cloves and cinnamon can also be found in organic varieties of weed control agents.

Finally, salt without iodine is commonly used as a key ingredient. These organic ingredients aren’t only safe to use around other plants but are often safer for humans and pets as well.

Different Format of Dandelion Weed Killers

Different formats of dandelion-killing chemicals are available, each tailored to particular sorts of infestations and individual requirements. You should always check which type fits your garden size and the nature of the dandelion infestation before you buy a weed killer.

Granulated Weed Killer

A broadcast spreader or drop spreader is needed to apply granulated herbicide. The granules resemble coarse sand and are a great choice for larger gardens infected with dandelion weeds.

 These often need to be watered down and will break down slowly. Depending on the product, granulated formula can eliminate current weeds and stop new dandelions from sprouting.

Liquid Weed Killer

You can use a garden hose reel or a pump sprayer to spread this all over the infested area. Liquid dandelion killers are extremely potent and will yield quick results. However, they do not cover a larger area compared to granulated weed control solutions.

Powder Weed Killer

These can be dusted all over the infested area using a duster, or they can be diluted with water and spread with a sprayer.

Spray Bottle Weed Killer

These are easy and handy to kill existing weeds. The spray bottle weed killer can be used to pump or spray the solution directly on the infested area.

FAQs About the Best Dandelion Killer Chemical and Organic Solution

You can permanently get rid of dandelion seeds during the summer season by applying weed killers to the roots during fall. 

Be careful not to use weed and feed products during this time to kill existing dandelions. In case your lawn becomes dormant for winter, it will not absorb any fertilizer, leading to a poor crop in summertime.

The fastest way to get rid of dandelions is by pulling them out while they are still in flowering stages and before they develop dandelion seeds. To do this, you should first water your garden or wait for a heavy rain spell so the earth is softer.

This makes it easier to pull out dandelion flowers. You can use a small shovel or a trowel to loosen the root ball in the soil and pull out the dandelion flower weeds.

You should treat your lawn for dandelions right after it has flowered and resembles a soft, cotton ball. You can also apply weed killer solutions during fall season as this is the period where dandelions transfer nutrients from their stem and leaves to their roots for wintertime.

Bottom Line on Managing and Controlling Dandelion Growth

The first pick on this list of organic or synthetic weed killers for dandelions in your garden is the Espoma Organic Weed Preventer. This formula contains corn meal which works as an active ingredient to stop further formation of dandelions in your flower beds.

 

In second place is the Speed Zone Broadleaf Herbicide for Turf which contains 2-,4-D and is a 4-way selective herbicide that gets the job done in a matter of hours! It kills away both grassy and broadleaf weeds.

 

Finally, the Doctor Kirchner Natural Weed & Grass Killer is made with ocean seawater and premium industrial-grade vinegar. This is one of the more unique synthetic blends that does not harm the environment.

Abigail Clemente

Abigail Clemente

To say that Abigail is passionate about gardening and landscaping would be an understatement. Abigail came to Your House Your Garden team with an already exceptional portfolio as an experienced writer.

Abigail Clemente

Abigail Clemente

To say that Abigail is passionate about gardening and landscaping would be an understatement. Abigail came to Your House Your Garden team with an already exceptional portfolio as an experienced writer.