Best Weed and Feed

Best Weed and Feed Products to Micro-Manage Everything

Are you a control-freak who needs to simultaneously encourage grass to grow while discouraging weeds? Yeah, I see you. That’s why I made this list of the best weed and feed products. To help you make your lawn the serene wonderland that you’ve always dreamed of while micro-managing every blade of grass and every upstart weed – forcing everything and every body to bend to your will.

Sounds healthy.

All joking aside, I understand better than anyone that yardwork can consume a great deal of time, money and resources. That’s where weed and feed products come in. The best weed and feed products help you to kill two birds with one stone by fertilizing the grass you want, and getting rid of the weeds you don’t simultaneously. 

But I’m going to be honest with you – some of the most heavily marketed weed and feed products out there are products you should avoid. What should you buy instead? The best weed and feed for homeowners to buy and apply this spring is Jonathan Green’s Green-Up Weed & Feed (now labeled “Veri-Green”). It’s a product I recommend and use not only because it’s affordable, but because it’s effective at clearing out the most stubborn lawn weeds and it hasn’t given me any issues with burning (which is an issue with some products in this category).

But it’s not the perfect solution for every lawn. Read on, and I’ll help you find the best weed and feed product to get great results in your yard.


My Favorite Weed & Feed Products

BEST OVERALL
Jonathan Green Veri-Green 21-0-3 - Best Weed and Feed for Lawns
5 Star Rating

For a product that’s guaranteed to give you results, you can’t go wrong with Jonathan Green’s Veri-Green Weed and Feed. It boasts a slow-release nitrogen formula, allowing it to nourish your lawn for 3 months, and kills over 250 weed varieties.

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BEST VALUE
Hi-Yield Weed and Feed Lawn Fertilizer for All Grasses (15-0-10) - Best Value Weed and Feed for Lawns
4 Star Rating

Looking for a weed and feed that offers maximum value and delivers amazing results for the money? This is it. It’s safe to use on almost all lawn grasses, and you its high potassium level will help your lawn stand up to heat and drought.

BEST PRO-QUALITY
The Andersons Fertilizer with SURGE Broadleaf Herbicide (16-0-9) - Best Professional Quality Weed and Feed
5 Star Rating

If you’re looking to target a broad spectrum of broadleaf weeds in your lawn, then try this product from The Andersons. It’s an excellent professional quality weed and feed with small granules that spread evenly and easily.

Save 10% with code LAWNCHICK


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How to Choose the Best Weed and Feed for Your Lawn

Finding a weed and feed that meets your lawn’s needs isn’t easy. There are so many things to consider, ranging from the price to nutrient composition, application rate, and coverage.

To make your selection easier, below is a detailed guide highlighting the criteria to follow. In addition, you’ll find the most common mistakes that buyers make when picking weed and feed products.

Trust and Accuracy Information

This article was last updated on by Lawn Chick Owner Sarah Jameson
Article content reviewed for accuracy by Certified Horticulturist Nicole Forsyth, M.S., and by Horticulturist Arthur Davidson, A.S.

What to Look For When Buying Weed and Feed

There are a couple of points that you should watch out for when purchasing weed and feed. They include:

Grass Species

Another thing you’ll want to account for is the type of grass growing on your lawn.

Based on this, lawn grasses are typically categorized into two: warm- and cool-season. Contrary to what many believe, these description words don’t refer to seasons but rather the climatic conditions best suited for growing them.

Grass Zone Map

Here’s a more detailed look at each species:

  • Warm-season – a distinct characteristic of these lawn grasses is that they thrive in soil temperatures ranging between 70 and 95°F. Specifically, they do well in warmer climates, which are mostly found in Southeastern and Southwestern parts of the U.S. Examples include Saint Augustine, carpetgrass, Bahia grass, Bermuda grass and Zoysia.
  • Cool-season – the ideal soil temperatures for these grasses averages between 60 and 75° F. This means that they do better in cooler climates, such as those present in the northern and midwest parts of the U.S. Examples include perennial ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass as well as both hard and tall fescue grass.

And as you may have guessed – homes in the transitional zone have conditions which allow either type of grass species to grow well. The type of lawn grass that’s best for your yard will depend upon the microclimate in your specific location.

Nutrient Composition

The range of nutrients included in the weed and feed is another crucial factor.

Fertilizers are typically described using the three numbers which define their NPK ratio. These numbers represent the nutrients quantities in percentages. This ratio denotes the proportion of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K).

  • Nitrogen – responsible for healthy grass leaf growth and its green color
  • Phosphorus – essential for proper root development
  • Potassium – increases your lawn’s overall health, and resistance to pests, diseases, and stress caused by extreme temperatures

Performing a soil test is the easiest way to determine the nutrients that your lawn needs.

Purpose of the Weed Killer

A weed and feed is only effective if it’s being used for the purpose it was formulated for.

What is the Best Weed and Feed?

Specifically, these products are designed to either prevent weed seeds from germinating (pre-emergent) or destroy already-established weeds (post-emergent).

As the name suggests, these products also contain fertilizer to nurture desired turfgrass in your lawn.

Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Weed and Feed

The main mistakes you should avoid when choosing a weed and feed are:

  • Failing to consider the type of weed – before you think of buying this multipurpose product, check the type of weed that’s growing in your lawn. This way, you won’t end up using a herbicide that’s meant for grassy species on broadleaf weeds and vice versa.
  • Using the wrong weed and feed – weed and feed products provide either pre- or post-emergence control. Pre-emergent varieties tackle weeds before they emerge from soil while post-emergent weed and feed products will kill fully-established weeds.

To determine which product works first figure out whether you’re dealing with

  • Annual weeds (crabgrass is a common example of an annual weed that comes back every year from seeds dropped the previous year) or
  • Perennial weed plants (dandelions and clover are common examples).

My List of the Best Weed & Feed Products This Year

Different weed and feed products contain different ingredients suited for different types of lawn.

Here’s a quick summary of what I consider the best weed and feed products to help you choose.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Jonathan Green VERI-GREEN Weed & Feed (21-0-3)
  2. BEST VALUE: Hi-Yield Weed & Feed Lawn Fertilizer for All Grasses (15-0-10)
  3. BEST PROFESSIONAL-QUALITY: The Andersons Professional Surge Weed and Feed (16-0-9)
  4. BEST FOR CRABGRASS: Jonathan Green Crabgrass Preventer Plus VERI-GREEN (20-0-3)
  5. BEST FOR OVERSEEDING: Scotts Turf Builder Triple-Action Built for Seeding (21-22-4)
  6. BEST PRE-EMERGENT + FERTILIZER: Ferti-Lome For All Seasons II Lawn Food plus Crabgrass and Weed Preventer (16-0-8)
  7. BEST LIQUID WEED & FEED: Gordon’s Liquid Weed & Feed (15-0-0)

Jonathan Green Veri-Green Weed & Feed 21-0-3 (formerly called "Green-Up Weed & Feed)

Looking for a fertilizer that strikes a balance between pricing and features? If you are, the VERI-GREEN Weed and Feed by Jonathan Green (formerly called “Green-Up” is an excellent choice. It’s not too pricey, yet it does a fantastic job of controlling weeds and nourishing your lawn. Here’s what you can expect.

Composition

One thing you’ll notice right off the bat is that it’s rich in nitrogen.

Making up 21% of its total composition, this nutrient restores the vibrant green color of your lawn within a short time. The best part is, it releases the nitrogen gradually; feeding your lawn for a whopping 90 days.

Another nutrient present in the Veri-Green Weed and Feed is potassium, albeit in small amounts (3%). While it might not seem like much, this is a modest amount of potassium. In fact, it’s just enough to restore your yard’s vigor and resistance against more weeds and pests.

When it comes to the herbicide part of it, this product can control more than 250 broadleaf weeds. This list includes common culprits such as chickweed, dandelions, poison ivy, thistle, and wild onions.

What Our Expert Said About the Formulation

At Lawn Chick, we invite credentialed experts to review our articles for accuracy and share their expertise. Arthur Davidson, a horticulturist with over five decades of experience and member of our expert panel, carefully reviewed the formulation of all of the weed and feed products recommended on this page.

His analysis was that: “If you desire an almost perfect lawn, you probably should use the Veri-Green product. Veri-Green has two sources of Urea, which is the best formulated, plus three different formulations of 2-4-D. This is the best value.”

Read Our Full Editorial Policy & Publishing Standards

Application

Weed and feed products ought to be applied cautiously, and the Veri-Green is no exception. According to Jonathan Green, the best time to apply it is when the temperatures are at least 85°F.

You’ll also want to time your application in the early morning hours when your lawn has dew. Alternatively, apply right after a light rainshower. This way, there’s a bit of moisture to improve the product’s absorption. 

Though this product provides ample nourishment, it cannot be applied to just any lawn. Specifically, it’s not suitable for lawns that have been recently laid or seeded

At the same time, you should take note of things you can or cannot do after the weed and feed’s application. If you’d like to mow, wait at least 48 hours post treatment. And if you’re planning to plant new grass seed, wait for at least 30 days.

Jonathan Green Veri-Green Weed & Feed Specifications

NPK ratio21-0-3
Post/Pre-EmergentPost emergent
TypeGranular
PROS
  • Nourishes your lawn for a period of 3 months
  • Kills more than 250 broadleaf weeds
CONS
  • Cannot be applied during seeding or on newly laid sod
  • Risk of staining if left on hard surfaces

My Final Take-Away: If you’re searching for a product that can tackle a wide range of weeds at once, Jonathan Green’s Veri-Green Weed and Feed is just what you need. It’s effective against 250+ broadleaf weeds. And, it has generous amounts of nitrogen.

Where to Buy Jonathan Green Veri-Green Weed & Feed

You can compare prices and order this online at the following retailers:


Hi-Yield Weed & Feed Lawn Fertilizer for All Grasses (15-0-10)

Are you looking for yet another affordable weed and feed? If you are, then Hi-Yield Lawn Fertilizer is an excellent choice. It comes in at less than $25, making it affordable for buyers on a budget. Here’s what you can expect from this weed and feed.

Composition

Despite being one of the most fairly priced weed and feed products, the Hi-Yield doesn’t compromise on its nutrient composition.

In fact, quite the opposite as it offers generous servings of nitrogen and potassium. The nitrogen helps with greening whereas potassium boosts your turf’s resistance and vigor.

However, the biggest highlight of the Hi-Yield fertilizer is the fact that it contains Trimec- a selective herbicide that destroys already-established weeds.

There are two things I like about this herbicide. For one, it’s versatile and it can destroy up to 200 broadleaf weed species. This is not too surprising considering it has three active ingredients, namely:

  • MCPP DMA salt
  • 2,4-D, dimethylamine salt
  • Dimethylamine dicamba

Secondly, it destroys entire weed plants, starting from the leaves down to their root systems. This ensures that there aren’t any traces of weeds left that can survive after a treatment. Examples of weeds that it’s used to eliminate are dandelion, chickweed, henbit, spurge just to mention a few.

Application

The Hi-Yield Weed and Feed is available in different sizes. The one we’re reviewing here comes in an 18-lb. Bag, which is enough to cover 5,000 sq.ft. lawns.

One benefit of using this weed and feed is its flexibility. Not only can it be applied in any season, but it’s also safe to use on a variety of grasses without causing any harm. Whether your lawn contains bermuda, St. Augustine grass, bluegrass or fescue, you can use this weed and feed successfully. 

The only condition stipulated is that it should be applied on moist or dewy lawns. And since it’s in granular form, you should also water in the product 24 hours after application.

Hi-Yield Weed & Feed Lawn Fertilizer Specifications

NPK ratio15-0-10
Post/Pre-EmergentPost-emergent
TypeGranular
PROS
  • The Trimec herbicide contains three active ingredients for maximum efficiency
  • Safe to use on most grasses, including Bermudagrass and fescue
  • Can be applied in any season to stop further weed growth
  • Affordable
CONS
  • Limited information regarding its application

My Final Take-Away: Don’t want to spend a ton of money on weed and feed products? If so, the Hi-Yield Weed and Feed comes at a price that’s hard to beat. It feeds your lawn while simultaneously destroying common broadleaf weeds like dandelions. And, it’s safe to use on most turfgrasses. 

Where to Buy Hi-Yield Weed & Feed Lawn Fertilizer for All Grasses

You can compare prices and order this online at the following retailers:


Jonathan Green Veri-Green Lawn Food plus Crabgrass Preventer 20-0-3

Has your lawn ever been attacked by crabgrass? If it has, then you know how difficult it can be to eliminate. This weed is very resilient and hardy, which makes it challenging to control.

Thankfully, there are several herbicides formulated specifically to terminate it, and the Jonathan Green Crabgrass Preventer is the perfect example. Here’s a comprehensive review of this weed and feed.

Composition

Is your lawn struggling to attain that beautiful lush green color? If it is, Jonathan Green-Up fertilizer (now called “VERI-GREEN” – it’s the same formula) can transform it.

With 20% of its composition made solely of nitrogen, this lawn food will restore your yard’s green color within a short time. It also contains about 3% potassium, which is great for boosting your lawn’s resistance.

Another thing you’ll love about this fertilizer is that it provides prolonged feeding. Its slow-release formula supplies your lawn with these essential nutrients for at least three months.

However, where this product truly excels is in weed prevention. According to Jonathan Green, it provides both pre- and post-emergence control.

When applied before germination, it prevents weeds such as crabgrass, dallisgrass, henbit, goosegrass and chickweed.

And for post-emergence control, the manufacturer incorporated Dimension – a herbicide that’s very good at destroying established weeds.

Unfortunately, this postemergence efficiency is limited to crabgrass. And even then, it can only eliminate weed plants that haven’t grown past the 3rd leaf stage. A mature crabgrass plant has 7 leaf stages.

Application

To get the best results, you should time the application of the Crabgrass Preventer just right.

Jonathan Green stipulates applying this weed & feed anytime between late February and mid-May. This way, it can work on crabgrass and other grassy weeds before they have a chance to develop into full-blown weed plants.

Another thing you should be cautious about is residue. If any granules end up on hard surfaces like a driveway, sweep them away to prevent staining.

The manufacturer also recommends watering in the product a few hours after application. However, apply just a small amount of water; 1 ½ inches is enough.

Buyers praise the Jonathan Crabgrass Preventer for its long-lasting results. Unfortunately for some, this can be a huge setback.

This is because you’ll have to wait for 3 to 4 months before you can plant any grass seeds on your lawn. Apply any earlier than that and the weed killer will likely prevent their germination as well. 

Jonathan Green Crabgrass Preventer Plus Veri-Green Lawn Fertilizer Specifications

NPK ratio20-0-3
Post/Pre-EmergentPre- and Post-emergent
TypeGranular
PROS
  • Stops several weeds from germinating, including henbit and chickweed
  • Provides post-emergence control against crabgrass
  • Extended lawn feeding for a period of 3 months
  • High nitrogen content makes it fit for greening lawns
CONS
  • Cannot eliminate crabgrass plants that are past the 3rd leaf stage
  • One has to wait 4 months post-application to plant grass seeds

My Final Take-Away: If you’ve already identified crabgrass as the culprit for your distressed lawn, then the Jonathan Green Crabgrass Preventer is the ultimate remedy. It provides pre- and post-emergence control for crabgrass up to the third leaf stage. It also replenishes your lawn’s nutrients for up to three months.

Where to Buy Jonathan Green Crabgrass Preventer plus Veri-Green Lawn Fertilizer

You can compare prices and order this online at the following retailers:


Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action Built for Seeding (21-22-4)

The vast majority of herbicides cannot be applied when seeding a lawn. Oftentimes, you have to wait several weeks or months before you can plant any grass seeds on a treated lawn.

However, this Scotts Turf Builder Triple-Action product sets itself apart by being one of a handful of products safe to apply during seeding. Here’s a look at what this unique weed and feed can do for you:

Composition

The first thing that drew me to this weed and feed is the fact that it’s well-balanced. It contains all three macronutrients- nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium- and in very generous amounts. Thanks to this, your lawn will have everything it needs to grow thicker and greener.

This product does a lot more than just nourish your lawn. It also shields your lawn from irksome weeds and kickstarts the development of newly planted grass seeds. This explains the triple-action description in the product title.

Another thing I love about the Scotts Turf Builder is that it offers a long-lasting solution. Unlike other herbicides that offer short-term protection, this one promises to keep weeds at bay for up to six weeks. And, it achieves this without ever posing risks to the new grass.

That said, take note that the Scotts Turf Builder works as a pre-emergent herbicide. So while it will prevent weeds from germinating, it can’t destroy any existing weeds. So if the weeds have already germinated, you may have to look for an alternative.

Application

Wondering how to apply the Triple-Action weed and feed? Well, the process is fairly similar to how other weed and feed fertilizers are applied.

It’s in granular form, meaning you’ll need a broadcast or rotary spreader. Ideally, you should apply when your lawn is still dry. You can then irrigate later to activate the granules. If you treat a lawn that’s recently seeded, remember to water daily for the first fourteen days or till the seedlings achieve a 2-inch height.

As mentioned earlier, the Scotts Turf Builder is very versatile. So whether you’re planting grass seed for the first time or overseeding your lawn, this product is safe to use.

One other impressive feature is that it works well for different grass species. The main ones that it’s compatible with are perennial ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue and centipedegrass.

Scotts Turf Builder Triple-Action (Built for Seeding) Specifications

NPK ratio21-22-4
Post/Pre-EmergentPre-emergent
TypeGranules
PROS
  • Safe to use on multiple grass species
  • Ideal for seeding and overseeding applications
  • Provides post-emergence control against crabgrass and dandelions
  • Prevents weeds from germinating for up to 6 weeks
CONS
  • Doesn’t provide any post-emergence control

My Final Take-Away: Have you been hunting for a weed and feed that you can apply during seeding? If you have, the Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action is your best bet. It feeds your lawn, keeps weeds away and boosts the development of new grass seeds.

Where to Buy Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action Built for Seeding

You can compare prices and order this online at the following retailers:


Ferti-Lome For All Seasons II Lawn Food Plus Crabgrass and Weed Preventer (16-0-8)

If you’re looking for a product that prevents weeds from germinating in the first place, this pre-emergent weed and feed is the ultimate solution. Here’s what you can expect:

Composition

One thing I like about the Fertilome fertilizer is the fact that it has a wide range of nutrients, both macro and micro.

The most notable one is nitrogen as it makes up the largest proportion (16%). The other macronutrient available is soluble potash, which increases your turf’s resistance, especially to drought and diseases.

In addition, the fertilizer is formulated with micronutrients such as boron, iron, copper, zinc and manganese.

Boron is essential for stem cell differentiation, allowing the grass roots and blade cells to proliferate. Iron helps the grass develop a rich green color. If your lawn is deficient in iron, it will likely turn to a pale yellow-green shade.

Zinc facilitates a number of metabolic reactions, including chlorophyll production. Meanwhile, copper protects your turf from certain diseases and pests while manganese improves nitrogen uptake. 

Another perk of this fertilizer is that it releases nutrients gradually. It can feed your lawn for a period of five months.

And as you already know, Fertilome doubles up as a herbicide. However, it only works as a pre-emergent, meaning it tackles weeds before they emerge from soil.

With Prodiamine as the active ingredient, it prevents an array of weeds, including chickweed, crabgrass, oxalis, henbit, knotweed and more.

Application

The Ferti-Lome Lawn is available in two different sizes: 20- and 40-pound bags. The 20 lb. bag covers an area of 5,000 square feet while 40 lb. one covers twice as big an area.

As for the herbicide component, one application is often enough to stop any germinating weed plants on their tracks. But if your lawn is heavily infested, you can follow this up with a second application; typically 1 to 3 months after the first treatment.

If you opt for two treatments, ensure that the total amount of herbicide you apply doesn’t exceed the recommended annual rates. These rates vary significantly depending on the weed you’re tackling.

For instance, the maximum rate for creeping red fescue is 4.7 lbs.per 1,000 sq.ft. But if you’re trying to control other weeds like zoysia, bermuda grass or tall fescue, you can apply as much as 9.3 lbs.per 1,000 sq.ft. within a year.

Ferti-Lome For All Seasons II Lawn Food Plus Crabgrass and Weed Preventer Specifications

NPK ratio16-0-8
Post/Pre-EmergentPre-emergent
TypeGranular
PROS
  • Includes both macro- and micronutrients
  • Formulated with Prodiamine to prevent weed growth
  • Works on multiple weeds
  • Nourishes lawns for up to 5 months
CONS
  • Cannot work on already-established weeds

My Final Take-Away: Looking for a way to stop weeds before they emerge and wreak havoc on your lawn? If you are, then Ferti-Lome Lawn Food plus Weed Preventer is just what you need. It contains prodiamine, a compound that’s very effective at preventing weed growth.

Where to Buy Ferti-Lome For All Seasons II

You can compare prices and order this online at the following retailers:


Best Liquid Weed & Feed

Gordon's Liquid Weed and Feed (15-0-0)

Liquid weed and feed products offer several perks. They’re fast-acting, and can be applied on big-sized lawns with greater ease. If you want to enjoy these benefits, check out Gordon’s Liquid Weed and Feed.

Composition

Right off the bat, you’ll notice that this product doesn’t have a wide range of nutrients. It only contains nitrogen, which makes up about 15% of its total composition. As a result, it’s best-suited for well-established lawns that only require a nitrogen boost.

But what this product lacks in nutrient composition, it makes up for as an effective herbicide. Like the Hi-Yield Weed & Feed, this one also contains more than one active ingredient. These are:

  • Dimethylamine salt of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid
  • Dimethylamine salt of propionic acid

The two work together nicely to eradicate multiple weeds, such as oxalis, dandelion, mallow, plantain, pigweed, English daisy, chickweed among others.

Application

Another thing you’ll love about Gordon’s Liquid fertilizer is its ease of application. Just mix it with the correct amount of water, place the resulting solution in a sprayer and you’re good to go.

For large-scale applications, you can even use a pull-behind sprayer that attaches to an ATV or other four-wheeled lawn equipment.

That said, the manufacturer provides several rules that you should comply with to get the best results:

  • Avoid spraying on areas with vegetables, flowers or other beneficial plants
  • Only spray when the temperatures are 85°F or lower
  • The weed and feed shouldn’t be sprayed on certain grasses, specifically dichondra, carpetgrass, centipedegrass, St. Augustine grass and bentgrass

Gordon’s Liquid Weed & Feed Specifications

NPK ratio15-0-0
Post/Pre-EmergentPost-emergent
TypeLiquid
PROS
  • Easy to apply on big lawns
  • The herbicide contains two active ingredients to improve its efficiency
CONS
  • Cannot be applied on certain lawn grasses
  • Only suitable for well-established lawns

My Final Take-Away: Do you have a massive lawn that needs a nitrogen boost and weed killer? If so, Gordon’s Liquid Weed & Feed is your answer. It supplies a healthy dose of nitrogen along with two active ingredients that eliminate common weeds. For easy applications, it can be applied using a pull-behind sprayer attached to your garden ATV.

Where to Buy Gordon’s Liquid Weed & Feed

You can compare prices and order this online at the following retailers:


Best Professional Quality

The Andersons Professional Fertilizer with Surge Weed and Feed (16-0-9)

Unfortunately, not every weed and feed product yields positive results. If you’re looking for a sure bet – the kind that’s used by professional landscapers – then check out the Andersons Surge Weed and Feed.

Though it has a higher price tag, this review shows that it’s worth every penny.

Composition

The Surge Weed and Feed doesn’t have as much nitrogen as Scotts Triple Action. But at 16%, this is still a decent offering.

What I love even more is that the nitrogen is available in both slow- and quick-release formulas. So if you have a lawn that’s been distressed for a while, the instant nutrient boost is just what it needs.

On the other hand, the slow-release formula helps to feed your yard for longer.

The Surge Weed and Feed provides a healthy serving of potassium as well. So if your lawn was deficient in this nutrient, this fertilizer will come in handy,  

Although this product does an excellent job of greening your lawn, its herbicide component is what truly sets it apart.

While others have only one active ingredient, this one is formulated with four of them, namely:

  • 2,4-D, 2-ethylhexyl ester
  • Mecoprop-p acid
  • Dicamba acid
  • Sulfentrazone 

This is what makes the Surge Weed and Feed so effective against dozens of weeds. According to the Andersons, it can successfully treat more than 250 weeds post-emergent. Examples include clover, dandelions, henbit, bitterweed, chickweed just to mention a few.

Application

To get the best results, ensure you follow all the rules provided.

For instance, the Andersons recommends mowing and watering your yard before treating it with the weed and feed.

It’s also advisable to schedule your application around morning hours when there’s dew. If this isn’t possible, consider irrigating very lightly – with about a ¼-inch of water – before applying. But as soon as you’ve applied the weed and feed, wait for up to a day or so before watering it again.

Most weed and feed products aren’t recommended for newly seeded turf. Interestingly, the Andersons Professional Surge can be applied, but on one condition.

This is the fact that the grass seedlings should have tillered. Tillering is the stage where the seedlings develop lateral shoots.

Another thing the manufacturer suggests is applying only the recommended rate. This should be based solely on the type of grass growing in your lawn. Find more detailed instructions here.

The Andersons Professional Surge Weed and Feed Specifications

NPK ratio16-0-9
Post/Pre-EmergentPost-emergent
TypeGranular
PROS
  • Can be applied on recently seeded turf after the tillering stage
  • The herbicide contains four active ingredients for maximum efficiency
  • Fertilizer has slow- and quick-release formulas for instant and prolonged feeding
CONS
  • Expensive

My Final Take-Away: Don’t mind splurging on a professional-grade weed and feed? If so, the Andersons Surge Weed and Feed is perfect. Boasting four active ingredients, this herbicide will render your lawn weed free within a short time. And it provides healthy doses of nitrogen and potash.

Where to Buy The Andersons Professional Fertilizer with Surge Weed & Feed

You can compare prices and order this online at the following retailers:


Still Not Sure?

Let Me Answer Some Common Buyer Questions

Sarah, the "Lawn Chick" of LawnChick.com

While weed and feed products are pretty self-explanatory, you might still have some questions about how to choose the right product for your lawn.

Below I’ll try to provide some more information about choosing and using weed and feed products.

I’ll also help you out by explaining some tips, tricks, and things to consider when buying the best weed and feed for your lawn.

If you’re still on the fence, please explore my site. I have hundreds of in-depth articles on a range of topics about yard maintenance and lawn care, and I expect that you might find one that addresses your specific question or concern.

For now, here’s some further reading about lawn weed and feed products that might help as you make your final purchase decision:

What do professionals use to kill weeds?

The best weed killers used by professionals typically contain a well-known active ingredient.

For pre-emergence control, they use herbicides that contain compounds such as dichlobenil, trifluralin, DCPA, and bensulide.

For post-emergence control, look out for ingredients like 2,4-D, MCPP and dicamba.

Do weed and feed products work?

Yes, they do. However, you should do some due diligence to determine which product will work best for your lawn and when to apply it for best results.

Best Weed and Feed for Lawn

Often, homeowners who are disappointed with the results of these products choose one that is not effective for the weed they are trying to eradicate from their yard, or apply it at a time when that weed won’t be affected by the product.

To get good results from a weed and feed you need to understand what weeds it is effective against, and when to apply the product for the herbicide to be effective and kill the weeds you want to eliminate.

To figure out when to apply these products, examine your lawn and establish whether it needs a pre- or post-emergent weed treatment.

If it needs a pre-emergent, then you must time your application before the weeds germinate. And if the weeds have already taken over your lawn, then your best shot is to use a post-emergent weed and feed product.

Some products like the Jonathan Green Crabgrass Preventer plus Fertilizer I’ve included here offer both pre and limited post-emergent control of crabgrass, but if you have established mature crabgrass in your lawn, you’ll want to choose Tenacity, which you can read about on my list of the best lawn weed killers. It’s an excellent selective herbicide that will kill mature crabgrass without harming your turf.

When should I use weed and feed?

Applying a weed and feed fertilizer requires very careful timing.

If you apply it too early, there’s a chance that the weeds won’t have started to grow. This means that you’ll miss out on the opportunity to eliminate them. However, you don’t want to wait until it’s too late either. If you do, the grass may not get the nutrients it needs to grow well during its peak season (especially true of northern lawns).

So when is the best time to apply weed and feed? Well, most experts recommend applying in either spring or fall. If you have a lawn that is dealing with an especially bad weed problem, you can apply at both times of year.

These are typically the times of year when weed seeds start to germinate while mature plants continue to grow actively; hence, making it the ideal time to tackle them.

Weed and Feed

That said, be sure to keep an eye out for the climatic conditions. Don’t apply right before a heavy rainstorm as the fertilizer can easily be washed away.

And when you mow your lawn relative to application also matters.

Should I mow before or after applying weed and feed to my lawn?

Most weed and feed products have detailed instructions regarding mowing, and you should follow the specific guidance the manufacturer provides for the product you choose.

For the majority of these products, it’s recommended that you mow a few days before treatment and don’t apply immediately after you mow.

Similarly, wait until a few days have passed to mow after an application.

Many weed and feed products need to be absorbed through the leaves of existing weeds to be effective. If you cut their leaves off right before or right after application, you’ll render your weed and feed product ineffective.

What is the next step I should take after using weed and feed?

Here’s a list of things to do post-application:

  • Keep your pets and children away from the lawn – these products are formulated with chemicals that can be harmful to pets and people if ingested or inhaled. So for maximum safety, ensure that neither your pets nor family members can access the lawn for the appropriate period of time after application. Nicole Forsyth, a certified horticulturist and member of Lawn Chick’s expert panel, shares that “it is generally recommended for most of these to wait at least a day, if not up to a week.” We recommend you read and closely follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on the product packaging, calling the manufacturer if you need to clarify their instructions.
  • Water your lawn after a day or so – yes, granular weed and feed products need to be watered in. But, you should wait at least 24 hours before watering in the fertilizer. If you water too early, you’ll wash away the product before it’s had a chance to work.
  • Reseed and aerate your lawn several weeks later – if you were planning to overseed your lawn, wait until four weeks have passed to do so. The only exception is if you’re using unique products like the Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action listed above. That one is designed to be applied during seeding.

Is liquid or granular weed and feed better?

Both forms of weed and feed work really well. It all depends on what your lawn needs, and what type of product you prefer to apply.

For instance, if you’re looking to get immediate results, then a liquid product will work faster. This is because it’s absorbed by the foliage immediately upon application. These products will work even better if you mix it with a surfactant (I use this one from Southern Ag).

On the other hand, if you prefer a product that will feed your lawn slowly as it eliminates weeds and have a good fertilizer spreader, then a granular weed and feed product is probably a better choice for you.

Do you water before or after weed and feed?

There aren’t any hard and fast rules on watering before treatment. As such, it depends on the brand of weed and feed that you’re using. I always recommend carefully reading and following application instructions provided by the manufacturer for best results.

For instance, the Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action ought to be applied on dry lawns. In contrast, the Hi-Yield Weed & Feed is best applied on dewy or moist lawns (where it will stick to weed leaves for excellent absorption).

The only common thing among granular weed and feed products is that they have to be watered in after application (the exact timing varies by product).

How long does it take weed and feed to work?

Different weed and feed products take different lengths of time to work. This depends on the specific weed you’re trying to eliminate, form and type of herbicide.

How Long Does it Take Weed and Feed to Work?

With regards to type, some weeds – such as Crabgrass – are more resilient than others; making them difficult to eliminate. And some weed and feed products will not even touch this stubborn annual weed.

The form of the weed and feed also impacts the duration of efficiency. For instance, some liquid products may work quickly and show visible results within the first few hours. Conversely, granular products take longer to be absorbed. For granular weed and feed products, it could be several days or weeks before you see any results.

But those visible results don’t necessarily mean the weed is dead.

Certified horticulturist Nicole Forsyth, M.S., shares that in her experience it can take several days to see results of liquid weed control, but “it takes 3-4 weeks until the weed is totally killed.” Also, she shares that “it depends on the moisture content in the soil directly surrounding the plant. If it is super dry (droughty, no rain) then it will take longer for the plant to absorb than if it rained or the soil was wet.”

Another factor that comes into play is whether you’re using a pre- or post-emergent weed and feed. When you apply a post-emergent weed and feed, it takes anywhere between 5 and 7 days to work. However, it may take up to three weeks to completely get rid of the weeds in your lawn.

On the other hand, it’s not easy to determine how long a pre-emergent takes to work. This is because the death of the weed seeds can occur at any time. That is, between the time they start germinating and when the resulting plant starts sprouting.

What happens if you use too much weed and feed?

Apart from correct timing, another thing you should be mindful of when using weed and feed is the application rate.

Apply too much of it and you risk damaging your lawn for the entire season. Overuse of both the herbicide and fertilizer can alter the soil’s pH, creating unfavorable conditions for grass growth, and whenever you apply too much fertilizer you risk burning your lawn.

The good thing is that most manufacturers indicate the specific amount that you should apply depending on your lawn grass and the square footage of your yard.

If application rate information is not available, inquire from the manufacturer instead of doing guesswork.

And if you want the most accurate measurement of your lawn size, use my free lawn size calculator, which allows you to use satellite imagery to get an accurate measurement of your lawn in just a few clicks:

Demonstration of Measuring a Lawn Using LawnChick.com's Lawn Size Calculator

I recommend mapping out individual sections of your yard (front yard, back yard, side yard) so you know exactly how much to apply to each area and can load up your spreader for each yard area individually.

This will give you the best results. The free tool linked above will also add up all of your mapped areas so you know exactly how much weed and feed you’ll need to order to treat your entire yard.

When you’re finished, click the blue “Save Your Map” button and I’ll email you a private link so you can come back to your lawn measurements any time.

At Lawn Chick, I am committed to publishing accurate, useful, and trustworthy resources for my readers. As part of this commitment, I’ve invited subject matter experts to review our articles for accuracy. I invite you to read our editorial policy and publishing standards which outlines in detail how every article on this site is sourced, edited, fact-checked, and vetted.

-Sarah

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Sarah Jameson’s blog, Lawn Chick, is read by over 2 million homeowners each year and she is regularly cited as an expert source of lawn care knowledge by major publications. Her goal is to meet you where you are, and help you achieve a yard you’ll be proud of. Ready to take the next step toward improving your lawn? Grab her free lawn care cheat-sheet: What to Do When - Take the Guesswork Out of Lawn Care, or upgrade your garage by browsing her favorite DIY lawn care products.

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