Zoysia lawns are beautiful, but weeds can quickly ruin their look. Getting rid of those unwanted plants without harming your precious grass can be tricky. I’ve tested a bunch of weed killers to find the ones that work best on zoysia. This guide will show you the top products to keep your lawn looking its best.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns: Best overall for broadleaf weeds.
- Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D Weed Killer: Most economical for large areas.
- Celsius WG Herbicide: Best for tough weeds and overall control.
- SpeedZone Southern Herbicide: Fastest acting weed killer.
- Tenacity Turf Herbicide: Best for pre-emergent and post-emergent control.
Top 5 Best Weed Killer For Zoysia Reviews
1. Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns
Ortho WeedClear is a solid choice for tackling broadleaf weeds in your zoysia lawn. It’s designed to kill common weeds like dandelions, clover, and chickweed without harming your grass. The ready-to-use spray makes application straightforward.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to apply with a spray bottle.
- ✅ Kills a wide range of broadleaf weeds.
- ✅ Won’t harm zoysia grass when used as directed.
Cons:
- ❌ May require multiple applications for stubborn weeds.
- ❌ Not effective on grassy weeds.
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to concentrated formulas.
Verdict: Great for homeowners wanting a simple solution for common broadleaf weeds in their zoysia lawn.
2. Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D Weed Killer
Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D is a budget-friendly option if you have a large zoysia lawn to treat. It’s a concentrated formula, so you’ll need to mix it with water before applying. It’s effective against many broadleaf weeds and is a cost-effective choice for larger properties.
Pros:
- ✅ Economical for treating large areas.
- ✅ Controls a wide variety of broadleaf weeds.
- ✅ Can be used with a tank sprayer for efficient application.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires careful mixing and application.
- ❌ Can drift and harm nearby plants if not applied properly.
- ❌ Not as effective on some tougher weed species.
Verdict: Best for those with large lawns and some experience using concentrated weed killers.
3. Celsius WG Herbicide
Celsius WG Herbicide is a professional-grade product that handles a wide spectrum of weeds in zoysia grass. It’s effective on both broadleaf and grassy weeds, making it a versatile option. It comes in a water-dispersible granule form, so you’ll need to mix it with water before applying.
Pros:
- ✅ Controls a broad spectrum of both broadleaf and grassy weeds.
- ✅ Safe for use on zoysia grass when used as directed.
- ✅ Can be used in warmer temperatures without damaging the lawn.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than some other options.
- ❌ Requires careful mixing and application.
- ❌ May not be readily available at local stores.
Verdict: Ideal for those dealing with a variety of weed types and willing to invest in a high-quality product.
4. SpeedZone Southern Herbicide
SpeedZone Southern Herbicide lives up to its name by delivering quick results on a variety of broadleaf weeds. It’s specially formulated for southern lawns like zoysia and works well in warmer temperatures. Expect to see visible results within days of application.
Pros:
- ✅ Fast-acting formula shows results quickly.
- ✅ Effective on a wide range of broadleaf weeds common in the South.
- ✅ Can be used in cooler weather (down to 50°F).
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than some other options.
- ❌ Requires careful application to avoid harming desirable plants.
- ❌ Strong odor during and after application.
Verdict: Best for those who need to see quick results and are dealing with stubborn broadleaf weeds.
5. Tenacity Turf Herbicide
Tenacity Turf Herbicide is a unique product that works both as a pre-emergent and post-emergent weed killer. This means you can use it to prevent weeds from sprouting and to kill existing weeds. It’s particularly effective on challenging weeds like crabgrass and nimblewill.
Pros:
- ✅ Works as both a pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicide.
- ✅ Effective on difficult-to-control weeds like crabgrass.
- ✅ Can be used at seeding for weed control during establishment.
Cons:
- ❌ Can temporarily whiten the grass (but it recovers).
- ❌ Requires precise application for best results.
- ❌ More expensive than some other herbicides.
Verdict: A good choice for those dealing with tough weeds like crabgrass and looking for both preventative and curative control.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right weed killer for your zoysia lawn involves a few key considerations. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Weed Type: Identify the weeds you’re dealing with. Broadleaf weed killers target plants like dandelions and clover, while others are designed for grassy weeds like crabgrass. Some products offer broad-spectrum control.
- Zoysia Sensitivity: Make sure the product is specifically labeled as safe for zoysia grass. Using the wrong weed killer can damage or kill your lawn. Always read the label carefully.
- Application Method: Consider how you want to apply the weed killer. Ready-to-use sprays are convenient for small areas, while concentrated formulas are more economical for larger lawns. Tank sprayers can make application faster and more efficient.
- Pre-emergent vs. Post-emergent: Pre-emergent herbicides prevent weeds from sprouting, while post-emergent herbicides kill existing weeds. Some products, like Tenacity, offer both pre- and post-emergent control.
- Timing: Pay attention to the recommended application timing. Some weed killers work best in cooler temperatures, while others are more effective in warmer weather. Avoid applying weed killers during periods of drought or extreme heat.
- Safety: Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when applying weed killers. Keep children and pets off the treated area until the product has dried completely.
FAQs
Q: Will weed killer damage my zoysia grass?
A: If you choose a product specifically labeled as safe for zoysia and follow the instructions carefully, it should not damage your grass. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to be sure.
Q: How often should I apply weed killer?
A: It depends on the product and the severity of your weed problem. Some weed killers require only one application, while others may need to be applied multiple times. Follow the instructions on the label.
Q: Can I apply weed killer right after mowing?
A: It’s generally best to wait a few days after mowing before applying weed killer. This allows the weeds to recover and provides more surface area for the herbicide to be absorbed.
Q: Is it better to use a liquid or granular weed killer?
A: Liquid weed killers are typically faster-acting and provide more targeted control, while granular weed killers can provide longer-lasting pre-emergent control. The best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Q: How long before I can let my pets back on the lawn after applying weed killer?
A: Check the product label, but generally, it’s safe to let pets back on the lawn once the treated area is completely dry. This usually takes a few hours.
Conclusion
Keeping your zoysia lawn weed-free requires the right tools and knowledge. Choosing the best weed killer depends on your specific weed problems, lawn size, and budget. With the right product and careful application, you can achieve a beautiful, healthy zoysia lawn that you’ll be proud of.
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