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Much like how you don’t enjoy having invaders into your home, the same does out for your backyard or lawn too. Weeds are nothing but invaders, causing a ruckus in your garden. They extract the nutrition that your plants need, killing your plants or obstructing their growth in the meantime.
Gardening is not as easy as it sounds. Just planting a tree and watering it now and then will not get you the results that you want. It needs constant care and tending to. Additionally, you need to keep a close eye on the weeds and get rid of them before they start growing without any control.
That said, when it comes to spring gardening, clearing out the weeds around is extremely important before you decide to plant anything new. This is what makes all the difference, in terms of the quality of the plant growth and how well they grow.
Here, we are going to discuss the best weed and feed for spring that you can spray all around the garden for better results. For someone who is an amateur gardener, the most common mistake that you will likely do is be late to realize the power that these slugs hold.
Even with the best weed killer that you spray around, it sometimes becomes impossible to get rid of them if they have deeply rooted in the soil. Thus, keeping an eye on it in the beginning stage is what keeps everything in check.
Best Weed and Feed for Spring in 2022
With the basic introduction out of the way, the next thing we need to review some of the best-rated weed and feed. Since there are so many brands available in the market, finding one that suits your garden type is extremely important.
Let us take a look at some of the best available options, shall we?
1. GreenView 2129268 Fairway Formula Spring Fertilizer Weed & Feed
- Meant for – Over 200 types of weeds
- Coverage area – Over 5000 sq. ft
- Content – 18lb and 36lb packages
If there is one brand that provides budget-friendly products without compromising the quality, it is the GreenView 2129268 Fairway Formula Spring Fertilizer Weed & Feed. This comes in two different packagings, one weighing 36lb and the other one weighing 18lb. You can pick one based on your needs.
It has a granular texture, which is perfect for sustained and prolonged results. It feeds the grass and garden with nitrogen for over 8 weeks, ensuring to prevent the unnecessary growth of the weeds in the long run.
This is a high-efficiency feeder that provides optimal protection for your garden by getting rid of the weeds and invaders crawling around the leaves of your plants. Aside from killing the weeds, it also helps improve the plant vitality.
Just a single application of this product is enough for three lawn treatments. It feeds the lawn and at the same time, gets rid of the weeds from around the field. The product also comes with 65% slow-releasing nitrogen that keeps the weed away for over 8 weeks without any issues.
In case you are somewhere from Florida and has a St. Augustine grass bed on your lawn, we’d suggest you prevent from using this as it could cause serious damage to the grass. It also works well in rough weather conditions without any complaints.
Pros
- It has a slow-releasing nitrogen formula
- It is budget-friendly
- It improves soil vitality
Cons
- It doesn’t work for every grass and lawn type
2. Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action 4M
- Meant for – Weeds
- Coverage area – up to 10,000 sq. ft
- Content – 20lb
Next up on the list of the best weed and feed for spring is the Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action 4M. This one comes with a triple action formula, one that gets rid of the excess weeds from around the plants that you see and the ones that you don’t.
Even this one has a slow-releasing formula, one that helps get rid of the excess weeds and crabgrass from around the lawn for four months straight. The best thing about this weed killer is that it helps kill the existing weed growth and also prevents the new ones from growing in.
It can cover up to 10,000 sq. ft of the lawn without any complaints, which is a reason enough why this works so well. In case you do plan on getting a product that does its job right, we’d suggest you keep an eye on the amount of product you are using.
For using this product, start by measuring out the area your lawn is spread out on. Once you are done with that, pour the product into a spreader and spray it all around, especially focusing on the areas that have more weed growth than standard.
Like the previous one, even this one feeds your soil, promoting better growth of the plants in the long run. You must keep a check on the amount of product you are using because too much can be fatal for the lawn.
Pros
- It has weed-grip technology
- It promotes soil vitality
- It is eco-friendly
Cons
- It doesn’t work with all grass type
3. BioAdvanced 100532514 Weed & Feed
- Meant for – Weeds
- Coverage area – up to 10,000 sq. ft
- Content – 24 pounds
The third product in the list that is worth a mention is the BioAdvanced 100532514 Weed & Feed. This product is unlike anything else and does its job amazingly. It has a 25% slow-release formula, one that helps keep your lawn looking fresh for the days to come.
The best feature of this product is its production in killing the crabgrass, especially including the broadleaf grassy weeds and dandelion. The micro-feed action of the product enables better growth of the plants and makes the roots more resilient.
In case you are using this product, we’d suggest using a good quality rotary or drop spreader. This works a lot better in spreading out the product evenly around the lawn and prevents the risks of overspreading that kills the plants.
This one is specifically formulated for the northern lawns that have more varieties of weeds growing in. If you plan on buying this, we’d suggest taking a look through the list of lawn and grass types this product works well on. Avoid spraying it on any other turf.
Pros
- It has a multipurpose usage
- It is formulated with micro-nutrient lock
- It has a 25% slow-release formula
Cons
- It doesn’t work for the southern turfs and lawns
4. Preen One Lawncare Weed and Feed
- Meant for – Different types of weeds
- Coverage area – up to 10,000 sq.ft
- Content – 18lb
Next up on the list is yet another all in one product. The Preen One Lawncare Weed and Feed help kill your weeds, feed the lawn, and even prevent the weeds from growing in again. It works effectively for 4 weeks on the crabgrass, following which you’d have to apply again.
As for the types of weeds that it kills, the list includes a host of over 250 weed types including dandelions. It has a phosphorus-rich formula with a slow-releasing factor, one that keeps the risks of lawn issues in check. It keeps your lawn free from the weeds for up to 8 weeks.
The formula of the product is so powerful that a single application is more than enough to keep the risks in check. We’d suggest you read the instructions mentioned with the amount you need to apply and the intervals it needs to be applied in.
Since this doesn’t work for all the weed types and varieties, we’d suggest you check the list available on the website before you end up buying it. It doesn’t contain phosphate in it, which further nourishes your lawn for the better.
Pros
- It kills over 250 types of weed
- It is a multipurpose product
- It has a phosphate-free formula
Cons
- It doesn’t work for all the turfs
5. Spectracide Weed & Feed
- Meant for – Weeds
- Coverage area – up to 7,500 sq. ft
- Content – 32-ounce
For those lazy people out there, who don’t want to face the hassle of mixing the weed and feed and then spraying it, the Spectracide Weed & Feed makes your life a lot easier. It comes prepared in a spray bottle, allowing easier work to be done in no time at all.
Apart from the convenience of the easy-to-spray bottle, it has a dual-action formula that kills the weeds and at the same time, it feeds the grass too. If you have poison ivy and poison oak lying around the lawn, this takes care of that as well.
In case you do want the best results from using it, we’d suggest watering your lawn a day or two prior. Moist soil helps with the penetration of the formula a lot better. It has 20% nitrogen in the formula, enabling better and easier cleaning of the weeds and promoting faster growth.
Aside from the convenience of use, the product also comes in a pack of six, allowing you to buy in bulk for budgeting and keeping stock for the future. All you need to do is connect your hose and spray the product. It is that simple.
Pros
- It has an easy application process
- It nourishes the soil
- It has 20% nitrogen in the formula
Cons
- It requires a double application after a week for better results
6. Preen Garden Weed Preventer Plus Plant Food
- Meant for – killing weeds and nourishing soil
- Coverage area – up to 2,560 sq. ft
- Content – 16 lb
If you have a small lawn that requires tending to, the Preen Garden Weed Preventer Plus Plant Food is a good option. This is specifically designed for smaller lawns and grass beds, ensuring faster growth and killing the unwanted weeds from around the area.
It works throughout the year, irrespective of the season you are applying it on. It also comes with a separate applicator scoop inside, allowing you to measure out the needed product for optimal results on your lawn.
The granule like the texture of the product lasts longer, keeping the action going on for multiple weeks before you have to reapply again. The composition of this plant food consists of nitrogen, phosphate, potash, and a hint of sulfur and chlorine for better results.
The product has a balanced level of fertilizers in it that promotes better growth of plants and promote better yield in the long run. A single application of the product lasts for around 3 months, which is a pretty good option.
Pros
- It kills the weeds and feeds the plants
- It can work throughout the seasons
- It has a balanced level of fertilizers in it
Cons
- It has a lesser coverage area
7. Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed
- Meant for – Weeds on Southern turfs
- Coverage area – up to 10,000 sq.ft
- Content – 20lbs
Another popular option from Scotts is the one meant specifically for the southern turf. The majority of the weed and feed that you come across online and offline are meant for the northern turfs. So, having one specifically catered to the southern grass type is a boon.
It helps get rid of the weeds, insects, and parasites that are responsible for affecting the growth of the grass and the plants around. It simultaneously feeds the lawn, ensuring faster growth of the plants and enabling better root growth into the soil.
The product comes in two different sizes, depending on how much coverage area your lawn needs. So, make sure you pick one out accordingly. If you have bermudagrass on your lawn, we’d suggest not using this at all.
The brand has come out with its signature formula that is specifically meant for the southern lawns. Always make sure you follow the package instructions when it comes to the application of the product. This is extremely important and helps reduce the risks of damage caused to the lawn.
Pros
- It is specifically formulated for the southern turfs
- It kills weed and promotes better soil vitality
- It comes in multiple sizes, depending on needs
Cons
- The packaging is not sturdy and has risks of falling out
8. Espoma Organic Weed Preventer
- Meant for – Weeds
- Coverage area – up to 1000 sq. ft
- Content – 6lbs
For those who don’t want to spray their lawns with chemicals, the Espoma Organic Weed Preventer is the best alternative. This one has an all-organic formula that is perfect for vegetable and flower gardens.
The composition of the weed preventer is specifically made with corn gluten meal that ensures better growth and at the same time, reduces the risks of weeds growing in from all around. It is perfect for the most common weed types including dandelion and crabgrass.
It doesn’t contain any kind of harsh chemicals, which is again a boon about using this product. The one downside to this product is that it doesn’t kill the existing weeds. So, all you can do is spread it around and prevent any future growth of the weeds.
Since it has corn gluten meal as its main component, it has a high protein content in it that nourishes the plants and promotes better growth in no time at all. If you have just bought a place and want to work on your lawn, start the process by spreading it all around.
Pros
- It has an all-organic formula
- It is made with high protein cornmeal
- It is suited for almost all grass types
Cons
- It doesn’t kill the existing weeds but prevents further growth
9. Pennington 100536600 UltraGreen Weed & Feed Lawn Fertilizer
- Meant for – Weeds
- Coverage area – up to 5000 sq. ft
- Content – 12.5 lbs
Even though getting your hands on this product is pretty complicated, this is hands down one of the best weed and feed for your lawn. It is specifically formulated to kill over 250 different types of weeds, ensuring better care of your turf.
It has nitrogen in the formula that enables faster growth of the plants without any intervention. It also has iron in the formula the help promote nourishment and at the same time, helps in improving the colour of the leaves.
As for the coverage area of the product, it enables better protection up to 5,000 sq. ft, which is more than enough to keep your lawn in the best possible condition without any complaints. If you want the best results, we’d suggest using it between April and June.
But, since the product is so sought after, the brand caters to the best after-sales service. In case the product doesn’t work for your lawn’s soil type, they have a readily available money-back guarantee without any questions asked.
Pros
- It is suited for killing over 250 types of weeds
- It promotes faster growth of plants
- It has a money-back guarantee
Cons
- It doesn’t work for St. Augustine grass
10. Bayer Advanced 704840B Feed 3-in-1 Weed Killer Fertilizer
- Meant for – Weeds
- Coverage area – up to 5,000 sq. ft
- Content – 12.5lbs
Last but not least on the list of products is the Bayer Advanced 704840B Feed 3-in-1 Weed Killer Fertilizer. This one has a very reliable quality, one that stands out in terms of the branding and the results you get after application.
Even this product is specifically formulated for the southern lawns, so if you have been having a hard time finding a good quality weed killer that works for your lawn, this is the best option. Just a single application of the product is enough to tide you through a few months.
The product has a granule-like a formula with 50% slower release, which is key when it comes to long-lasting benefits. It can keep the crabgrass and weeds from growing in for up to 6 months, which is a lot more compared to the other products available in the market.
The formula of the product shows the best results when applied during the spring and fall time, so you need to keep a check on that as well. In case you are applying it during the spring season, we’d suggest you mow your lawn first.
A broadcast or rotary spreader works the best for this product, ensuring equal distribution for better results. It kills the weeds from around and ensures to keep your lawn looking fresh and vibrant throughout the year.
Pros
- It has a slow-release formula
- It works specifically for southern turfs
- It prevents the growth of weeds for 6 months
Cons
- It requires prepping the lawn before application
11. The Andersons Professional Surge Weed and Feed
- Meant for: Over 250 types of weeds
- Coverage area: Over 16,000 sq.ft
- Content: 40 lbs
If you have a large lawn that you work with, The Andersons Professional Surge Weed and Feed is just the one that you’d need to ensure proper growth of the plants with the lingering creepers and weeds that take out most of the nutrition.
The best thing about this weed and feed is that it is available in bulk for a reasonable price, which means that you can easily buy a lot and then use it as per your liking. The formula of this product is a professional and four-way herbicide that you can make the most use out of.
Like several other weeds and feed in the market, even this one is formulated to kill over 250 different types of weeds without any issues. From dandelions, clovers to plantains, they can get rid of them all and even feed the soil in the meantime.
One spraying with this product is enough to get you through the entire growing season without any complications, something that most people have a hard time managing. Also, the formula of this product does contain quick-release nitrogen in it which ensures quicker feeding but doesn’t last long.
To compensate for that, the product is also formulated with 25% slow-release nitrogen to promote the eventual feeding of the ground. The smaller particles further contribute to better performance in the long run.
Pros
- Available in bulk
- Kills over 250 types of weeds
- Comes with nitrogen in the formula
- Feeds the soil for healthier growth
- Resealable bag
Cons
- Contains only 25% slow-release nitrogen
Ultimate Buying Guide
Now that you have a better understanding of the best weed and feed spring options, the next thing we need to discuss is the factors that influence the purchase. What kind of factors that you need to look out for before buying a weed killer? For your convenience, we have hand-picked some of the best criteria that you possibly need to keep a check on.
1. Check out the deficiencies
The first thing you need to check before buying a weed killer is the list of deficiencies your lawn has. Does it require more water? Does it require more nutrition? Once you know the loopholes, it becomes a lot easier for you to pinpoint the requirements in the weed and feed.
One of the most common signs of deficiency in a lawn is shown with a patchy looking lawn and discoloured grass all over. Using a product that helps conceal the deficiencies helps restore the nutrient balance in the soil and restores the normal health of the soil and grass.
You want to get a weed and feed that has phosphorus in it. This helps with growth and keeps your grass looking fresh and healthy. You can also get a fertilizer that has a combination of minerals to suffice the needs of your soil.
2. Fertilizer numbers
This is another factor that the majority of us don’t pay attention to. You will often find numbers written on the packaging of the fertilizer with 10-10-10 that shows the ratio of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus in the weed and feed.
If you are getting one, ensure that you check the label and see the contents written. This helps you keep track of what you are spreading on your lawn and prevents the risks of further damage.
3. Know grass type
Every weed and feed that you find in the market is not going to work for all grass-types. This is why you need to check out the type of grass you have. St. Augustine grass is the hardest to find a weed and feed for.
In case you have a generic grass that everyone around the locality does, you can pick up any product without any stress. But, always try to spray it on one corner to see whether it works well with your grass type and then move ahead and use it for the entire lawn.
4. Location
The weed and feed will vary depending on where you are from. There are fertilizers made specifically for northern soil type and there are specific ones made for the southern soil type. The quality of the same depends on what kind of area you are from.
The weed and feed for the northern soil type is the most common one. Finding the ones for the southern turf is what creates a ruckus.
5. Look through the types
Fertilizers come in a few different types, the most common ones being the slow release and the fast release version.
If you want quicker results that require frequent application, the faster-releasing versions are considered the best for you. In case you want slower results, we’d suggest you keep a check on the slower release nitrogen ones. They release the nitrogen slowly, ensuring that it does take some time for the weeds to die but the results are prevalent for over 6 months in some cases.
6. Coverage area
Another factor that you need to keep an eye out for before making the purchase is the coverage area. The standard ones allow around 5000 sq. ft coverage, which is more than enough to keep your lawn looking fresh and healthy for a longer period.
You want to get one with better coverage. This is a given. So, look through the options mentioned on the packaging of the product.
7. Pricing
Last but not least in the list of buying guides is the pricing. This is extremely important to take a look at. If you are buying a product, you want the maximum value out of it. So, make sure that you check through the online reviews to get a better understanding of the product and how well it worked for other people.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How to use weed and feed?
If you are a beginner who has never used a weed killer before, the process is pretty simple. A broadcast spreader works the best for these. They help in killing the weeds and work along a larger expanse of the lawn without any compromise.
Doing this instead of using the hand is always a better option as it is a lot safer and prevents the risks of chemicals getting on your hand.
2. When is the best time to apply weed and feed?
Another factor that is worth looking into is the time of application. The time around the end of spring is considered the best time. This allows extended-release that keeps the lawn looking at its best without any leaves from drying out.
Since the majority of these products are high in chemicals, all you need to do is apply it once and the rest is shown in the results. If you don’t see the results, we’d suggest you at least wait for 2 months before reapplying the product.
3. Do weed and feeds work for flower beds?
This is a very commonly asked question and yes, they do work for flower beds. You need to be very careful with the amount of product you use. Since flowers are a lot more delicate, using the correct type of product is key.
Try and get the products that serve the dual purpose of not just getting rid of the weeds from around the flower beds but also fertilize the flower beds at the same time. Try and avoid the ones with harsh chemicals in them.
4. Which weed and feed work best for bermudagrass?
Bermudagrass is a very stubborn one to tame. If you have the same and have a hard time maintaining it, the BioAdvanced 3 in 1 Weed and Feed for Bermudagrass works magic for this. This common type of grass is mostly seen around the areas in Texas and if you have the same around your home, we’d suggest you opt for this type of product.
5. Should one water the lawn after applying weed and feed?
Watering the lawn right after you apply the weed and feed is going to wash everything out. For the most part, it is best if you water the lawn a day prior and apply the product to a moist field. This helps keep the product penetrating deeper into the soil for better results.
6. How much does weed and feed for spring generally cost?
When you look at all the different options for weed and feed for spring that we have shared above, you can see that majority of it falls between the $20 to $35 price range for the basic package which is usually between 12.5 to 15lbs. However, there are some packages that are of 18lbs, priced in the $30s price range. There are some packages which are in the 40lbs range priced in at $75. The price depends upon the quantity, but basic packages cost you between $20 to $35 to start with. You can choose the quantity based on the size of your lawn.
7. When is a good time to start planting grass seeds?
The best time to plant grass seeds is generally around the months of April – this is because April is usually that time of the year where the cold wave from the winter months has subsided, and the heatwave of an upcoming summer is yet to arrive. Plant your grass seeds a little too early and you risk them suffering in the frost. Plant them a little too late and you risk them getting burnt by the summer heat. Hence, we suggest you should plant them in the window that is generally presented between late March to late April – which is an ideal period that your lawn can benefit from.
8. Why should you not fertilize in early spring?
It is best recommended to not fertilize your grass in the months of early spring, because this is the season in which the grass is new and young – and the energy of this new grown grass is going largely towards developing the root networks. This is why you should begin to spray them with fertilizers in mid to late spring, because by that time, the roots are completely well-grown and ready, keeping the grass firmly attached with the lawn. A lot of people end up making this mistake of fertilizing early in the spring when the grass is too new – ending up stressing out the young and fresh grass in its early stages.
9. Where to buy the best weed and feed for spring?
Weed and feed for spring time is easily available across all major horticulture stores and gardening stores in the US. People who own large lawns often need it to maintain them well. Gardeners and gardening enthusiasts usually tend to buy them from these stores. However, if you are looking for a very specific brand or quantity – you might want to consider checking out the Amazon web store, where you are likely to find a much better range of options, as well as better deals and discounts compared to buying it from physical stores. Amazon also has a better and a more relaxed returns policy than compared to these stores.
10. What are some things to keep in mind before you start overseeding your grass?
Before you oversee your grass, you need to plan for it in advance. First off, make sure you know the length and breadth of your lawn well. Use a measuring wheel and get the exact square footage. Get your fertilizer based on that value. Next, make sure you stop fertilizing at least a month before you start the actual process of overseeding the lawn. Fertilizer boosts grass growth – which leads to new seeds being unable to hold on firmly. Also, make sure you know your soil and the kind of grass that would grow well on it – and choose wisely. Lastly, ensure that you’ve got all the tools such as the mower, aerator, spreader, etc. ready with you. Having a thatch rake is also beneficial.
Conclusion
If you have been looking for the best lawn weed and feed for spring, we hope this article gives you an answer to that. Always refer to the buying guide before you make the final purchase. Additionally, it is also important that you keep a check on the user reviews and buy one that is good from every perspective.
A rotating team of writers and editors dedicated to providing reliable information for the readers of American Promise. We’re all passionate about cannabis and actively engaged in this “budding” industry.
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