Weeds can quickly become a gardener’s worst nightmare. They pop up unexpectedly and, if left unchecked, take over the landscape. Finding the best pre-emergent herbicide is key to maintaining a weed-free lawn and garden.
Pre-emergent herbicides are essential because they prevent weeds from germinating, giving you a head start in your lawn care routine.
Related: How to Stop Weeds from Growing Through Mulch
This guide reviews the top pre-emergent herbicides of all time, helping you select the right product for your yard, including the best pre-emergent herbicide for Bermudagrass.
1. Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG
Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG is a highly effective pre-emergent herbicide for professionals and homeowners.
Known for its long-lasting results, it controls a broad spectrum of annual grasses and broadleaf weeds in turf, landscape ornamentals, and nurseries.
Prodiamine is particularly useful for preventing the growth of crabgrass and other troublesome weeds.
This herbicide offers flexible application timings, allowing it to be used in the spring and fall. It’s also one of the best options for Bermudagrass, offering year-round weed prevention without damaging the turf.
| Main Features | Pros | Cons |
| Active ingredient: Prodiamine | ✓ Long-lasting control | ✗ Requires mixing |
| Controls crabgrass, goosegrass, and broadleaf weeds | ✓ Works well on Bermudagrass | ✗ Can be tricky to apply for beginners |
| Suitable for spring and fall application | ✓ Covers large areas | ✗ Not organic |
2. Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer
This popular pre-emergent herbicide is perfect for controlling crabgrass before it takes root. Scotts Turf Builder Halts prevents crabgrass and helps maintain a thick, green lawn.
Its single application provides season-long control, making it a great option for busy homeowners who want to prevent weeds without frequent reapplication.
It’s easy to apply using a broadcast spreader, and it is rainproof, meaning it won’t lose its effectiveness after watering or rainfall.
| Main Features | Pros | Cons |
| Season-long protection | ✓ Easy to apply | ✗ Not suitable for new lawns |
| Prevents crabgrass and other common weeds | ✓ Rainproof | ✗ Only available for pre-emergent control |
| Use in early spring | ✓ Affordable | ✗ Limited to certain weed types |
3. Espoma Organic Weed Preventer
If you are specifically looking for an organic solution, Espoma Organic Weed Preventer is a great option.
Made from corn gluten meal, this herbicide prevents weeds naturally and feeds your lawn with nitrogen. It’s perfect for organic gardeners who want to avoid chemical products while still controlling weeds.
Espoma is effective at preventing dandelions, crabgrass, and other common lawn weeds. However, it may require multiple applications throughout the growing season for optimal results.
| Main Features | Pros | Cons |
| Organic and natural ingredients | ✓ Organic and eco-friendly | ✗ Requires multiple applications |
| Feeds lawns with nitrogen | ✓ Safe for children and pets | ✗ Less effective on tough weeds |
| Prevents crabgrass and dandelions | ✓ Supports lawn growth | ✗ Higher cost than chemical options |
4. Dimension 2EW (Editor’s Choice)
Dimension 2EW is a professional-grade herbicide that provides superior pre-emergent weed control. It’s highly effective against a wide range of annual grasses and broadleaf weeds, including crabgrass, goosegrass, and chickweed.
What sets Dimension apart is its post-emergent control, which means it can stop some weeds even after they’ve sprouted.
This versatile product can be applied in various landscapes, including lawns, golf courses, and sports fields. Its long-lasting formula makes it a favorite among landscapers.
| Main Features | Pros | Cons |
| Controls crabgrass and goosegrass | ✓ Offers both pre- and post-emergent control | ✗ May require professional application |
| Can be used in spring and fall | ✓ Works on a wide variety of weeds | ✗ Expensive |
| Suitable for turf and landscape ornamentals | ✓ Long-lasting results | ✗ Requires precise measurement |
5. The Andersons BPGG Pre-Emergent Weed Control
The Andersons Barricade is a top choice for those seeking professional-grade results in a DIY-friendly product.
This granular herbicide is perfect for large areas and provides season-long control of annual grasses and broadleaf weeds. It’s easy to apply with a spreader and can be used in both spring and fall.
It’s particularly effective for use on Bermudagrass and provides a long residual, meaning you won’t have to worry about reapplying for several months.
| Main Features | Pros | Cons |
| Granular formulation | ✓ Easy to apply | ✗ Requires a spreader |
| Controls annual grasses and broadleaf weeds | ✓ Long-lasting control | ✗ Not organic |
| Suitable for spring and fall use | ✓ Safe for Bermudagrass | ✗ Takes time to show results |
6. Barricade from The Andersons
Similar to the product above, Barricade from The Andersons is another trusted pre-emergent herbicide for controlling annual weeds like crabgrass.
Its granular formula is easy to apply and offers season-long protection with just one application.
The product is perfect for both professional and residential use, offering superior control of many common lawn weeds.
This product is known for being effective in a variety of climates and is a go-to for those seeking Bermudagrass protection.
| Main Features | Pros | Cons |
| Pre-emergent control of crabgrass | ✓ Professional-grade product | ✗ Not effective on all types of weeds |
| Easy-to-use granular formula | ✓ Season-long protection | ✗ Can be pricey |
| Suitable for large areas | ✓ Works well on Bermudagrass | ✗ Requires proper timing for best results |
7. Preen Extended Control Weed Preventer
For homeowners looking for long-lasting control, Preen Extended Control is a standout option. This product offers up to six months of continuous protection against weeds.
It’s easy to apply around trees, shrubs, and flower beds and is safe for use in many ornamental gardens.
Preen is ideal for those who want a low-maintenance solution to weed control without the need for frequent reapplication.
| Main Features | Pros | Cons |
| Prevents weeds for up to six months | ✓ Easy to apply | ✗ Not suitable for lawns |
| Safe for use around flowers and shrubs | ✓ Long-lasting | ✗ Doesn’t work on all weed species |
| Granular formula | ✓ Low-maintenance | ✗ Requires reapplication after heavy rain |
8. Scotts Turf Builder Halts Crabgrass Preventer
While it’s been mentioned earlier, Scotts Turf Builder Halts deserves another spot on the list due to its reliability and effectiveness.
As you may have noted, this 26.7-pound two-packet product is different from the 16-ounce that I talked about in number 2 above.
If crabgrass is your main concern, this product delivers consistent results season after season. It’s easy to apply and protects lawns from many different types of grassy weeds.
| Main Features | Pros | Cons |
| Season-long control | ✓ Simple application | ✗ Limited to pre-emergent use only |
| Controls crabgrass effectively | ✓ Rainproof protection | ✗ Not suitable for all weeds |
| Use in early spring | ✓ Affordable | ✗ Can harm new grass if applied improperly |
People Also Ask
Which herbicides are pre-emergent?
Pre-emergent herbicides, such as Prodiamine and Dimension 2EW, are designed to prevent weed seeds from germinating. These products are typically applied before weed seeds have a chance to sprout, offering proactive weed control.
What type of pre-emergent should I use?
The type of pre-emergent you should use depends on the weeds you’re trying to control and the type of grass you have. For Bermudagrass, products like Prodiamine 65 WDG and Barricade are excellent options.
Is atrazine a good pre-emergent?
Atrazine is a commonly used herbicide but is typically more effective as a post-emergent control rather than pre-emergent. It’s best suited for certain types of grasses, including St. Augustine and Centipedegrass.
What is the lifespan of pre-emergent herbicides?
The lifespan of pre-emergent herbicides varies by product. Some offer protection for several months (e.g., Barricade, Dimension 2EW), while others may require reapplication after 2-3 months.
Conclusion
When it comes to preventing weeds, selecting the best pre-emergent herbicides can save you time and effort. Whether you’re targeting crabgrass, dandelions, or other annual weeds, these top 8 products offer excellent solutions. For Bermudagrass lawns, Prodiamine 65 WDG and The Andersons Barricade provide reliable, long-lasting control.