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Choosing the right weed killer fertilizer matters because you need both dependable weed suppression and the nutrients to help grass or garden plants recover. Poor choices can scorch desirable plants, leave bare patches, or fail to control persistent broadleaf and grassy weeds. This guide focuses on top options suited to typical lawn and garden situations and explains the tradeoffs between strength of weed control and plant-safe feeding. Below are the shortlisted products that met our editorial filters. We evaluated their weed control spectrum, nutrient formula, application ease, and safety to help you pick the right fit for your yard or beds.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action Lawn Fertilizer and Weed Control, 11.31 lb |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed5 Granular Lawn Fertilizer (33.95 lb) |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | The Andersons Surge Weed & Feed 16-0-9 Granular Lawn Fertilizer (40 lb) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | GreenView Weed & Feed Lawn Fertilizer, 13 lb Bag |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed (33.84 lb) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed 3, Granular Lawn Fertilizer and Weed Killer, 14.29 lb |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed, 11.43 lb |  |
Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action Lawn Fertilizer and Weed Control, 11.31 lb
| Item Form | Granule |
|---|---|
| Coverage | 4000 square_feet |
| Active Ingredients | Pendimethalin, Dicamba |
Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action combines fertilizer, broadleaf weed control, and a crabgrass pre-emergent into a single granular bag aimed at spring lawn care. You apply it with a broadcast spreader to a wet lawn, let granules sit for 24 hours, then water to move the active ingredients into the soil. Notable features are its 3-in-1 formulation and a coverage claim of 4,000 square feet from the 11.31 lb. bag, plus compatibility with common turf types such as Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and bermudagrass. In practice it simplifies chores by replacing separate fertilizer and pre-emergent steps and helps prevent crabgrass for several months while also targeting common broadleaf weeds like dandelion and clover. Important limitations are that it will not kill existing crabgrass and it contains herbicides that require careful timing and following safety directions for people and pets. For a homeowner who wants a single spring treatment to strengthen turf and reduce weed pressure, this is a practical, time-saving option.
Best for: Homeowners who want a single spring treatment to both strengthen their lawn and reduce weed pressure without managing multiple products, and who follow label timing and safety instructions.
Less Ideal for: People needing a quick cure for established crabgrass or those who prefer separate targeted treatments for fertilizer and herbicide control.
- 3-in-1 formula feeds grass, kills listed broadleaf weeds, and prevents crabgrass
- Covers up to 4,000 square feet from a single 11.31 lb. bag
- Granular form works with broadcast spreaders for even application
- Suitable for a wide range of common turf types
- Does not control existing crabgrass since the product is a pre-emergent
- Contains herbicides that require strict timing, wet grass at application, and re-entry precautions
Verdict: Use this single-bag 3-in-1 granular treatment if you want an easy spring application that feeds your lawn while preventing crabgrass and treating common broadleaf weeds.
Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed5 Granular Lawn Fertilizer (33.95 lb)
| Item Form | Granule |
|---|---|
| Coverage | 12000 square feet |
| Active Ingredients | 2.4‑D and Dicamba |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed5 is a combined granular weed killer and lawn fertilizer intended for use when broadleaf weeds are actively growing and daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 90°F. You apply it to a wet lawn with a broadcast, drop, or hand spreader (Scotts publishes spreader settings) and then avoid watering for 24 hours to let granules stick to weed leaves. The formula uses WeedGrip technology and active ingredients 2,4‑D and dicamba to target common lawn weeds such as clover and dandelion while the fertilizer portion delivers nitrogen and potassium to thicken turf. A single 33.95 lb. bag is sized to cover about 12,000 square feet, making it convenient for medium to large yards. Important limits: do not use on St. Augustine, bentgrass, dichondra, carpetgrass, or lippia and do not apply if rain is expected within 24 hours; the product can also require keeping people and pets off treated turf until dust settles. For homeowners seeking a combined weed control plus feeding step, this simplifies late‑spring applications, but those with excluded grass types or who need precise spot treatments should consider alternatives.
Best for: Homeowners with warm‑season Bahia and other listed grass types who want a single late‑spring application to control broadleaf weeds while feeding the lawn and prefer products with established brand usage guidance.
Less Ideal for: Anyone growing St. Augustine, bentgrass, dichondra, carpetgrass, or lippia or gardeners who need spot treatments, organic options, or year‑round fertilization plans.
- Kills a wide range of listed broadleaf lawn weeds including clover and dandelion using WeedGrip technology
- Feeds lawn while treating weeds so it both reduces weeds and promotes thicker turf
- Large 33.95 lb. bag covers up to 12,000 sq ft, suitable for medium to large lawns
- Published application guidance and spreader settings make it straightforward to apply evenly
- Not safe for use on several turf types including St. Augustine and bentgrass
- Requires dry window after application and restriction on people and pets until dust settles
- Contains synthetic herbicides that require careful handling and label compliance
Verdict: A convenient, proven weed‑and‑feed option for Bahia and other compatible lawns that combines broadleaf weed control with feeding in one late‑spring application.
The Andersons Surge Weed & Feed 16-0-9 Granular Lawn Fertilizer (40 lb)
| Item Form | Granule |
|---|---|
| Coverage | 16000 square_feet |
| Unit Count | 640 Ounce |
| Active Ingredients | Herbicide |
The Andersons Surge Weed and Feed is a professional four‑way granular treatment that combines herbicide action with a 16-0-9 fertilizer to feed lawns while eliminating broadleaf weeds. It is applied with a broadcast spreader to established turf when broadleaf weeds are actively growing; best results come from mowing 1–2 days before application, applying to a damp lawn so granules adhere, and avoiding irrigation for at least 24 hours afterward. The product claims control of more than 250 common weeds and uses relatively small granules for wider coverage per square inch. In practice this means you can treat a large yard quickly and expect both greening and weed suppression over the season, including cooler spring and fall windows. Important limitations are that it is not suitable for certain turf types such as Floratam St. Augustine, dichondra, carpetgrass, creeping bentgrass, or lawns with desirable clovers, and you must follow timing and watering instructions to avoid reduced effectiveness or damage to new grass. For a homeowner focused on strong seasonal performance, this delivers broad control and fertilizer in one application.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize strong, season‑long weed control and want a professional‑grade product that also feeds established lawns and can treat a large area efficiently.
Less Ideal for: People with sensitive or excluded turf species, newly seeded/sodded lawns, or those who prefer spot treatments rather than whole‑lawn broadcast applications.
- Combines broadleaf weed control with fertilizer (16-0-9) for two functions in one application
- Covers up to 16,000 square feet, suitable for medium to large lawns
- Small granule size increases coverage per square inch for more uniform application
- Formulated to work through a wide part of the growing season, including cooler spring and fall conditions
- Not safe for specific turf types including Floratam St. Augustine, dichondra, carpetgrass, and creeping bentgrass
- Requires careful timing and withholding irrigation for at least 24 hours to be effective
- Not recommended for newly seeded or recently sodded lawns without reduced rates and waiting periods
Verdict: Choose this if you want a professional, large‑area weed‑and‑feed that delivers broadleaf control plus fertilizer in a single application.
GreenView Weed & Feed Lawn Fertilizer, 13 lb Bag
| NPK | 27-0-4 |
|---|---|
| Form | Granule |
| Coverage | 5000 square_feet |
| Active ingredient | Nitrogen |
GreenView Weed & Feed is a combined granular fertilizer and selective herbicide designed to feed established turf while controlling broadleaf weeds. You apply it to a dry, established lawn when weeds are actively growing, then water to activate the product and avoid mowing for two days. It uses a controlled-release nitrogen formulation to deliver steady feeding for up to eight weeks, which helps green-up without pushing surge growth and supports deeper roots for better drought tolerance. The herbicide component targets more than 250 common lawn weeds such as dandelion, clover, and plantain, so one application handles both nutrition and weed pressure across many cool- and warm-season grasses. Practical benefits include long feeding duration, wide weed control, and coverage suitable for medium to large yards. Important limitations are that it is for established turf only, it can damage certain grasses like St. Augustine (in Florida), dichondra, and carpetgrass, and timing matters because weeds must be actively growing for best control.
Best for: Homeowners who want a single, budget-friendly product to both feed and reduce broadleaf weeds on established lawns and prefer less frequent applications over the season.
Less Ideal for: Gardeners establishing new turf, owners of sensitive or excluded grass types, or those seeking an organic or granular fertilizer without herbicide.
- Controlled-release nitrogen feeds lawns for up to eight weeks, reducing the need for frequent applications
- Provides selective control of over 250 broadleaf weeds alongside fertilization
- Covers approximately 5,000 square feet from a single 13 lb bag, suitable for medium to large yards
- Zero phosphate formulation to reduce risk of waterway runoff
- Not safe for certain turf types such as St. Augustine in Florida, dichondra, and carpetgrass
- Requires correct timing and watering after application for effective weed control
- Intended only for established lawns and can harm seedlings or sensitive grasses
Verdict: A cost-effective all-in-one weed-and-feed that delivers eight weeks of controlled-release nitrogen while knocking back a wide range of common broadleaf weeds.
Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed (33.84 lb)
| Item Form | Granule |
|---|---|
| Coverage | 12000 sq ft |
| Unit Count | 541.44 Ounce |
Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed is a granular all-in-one product for fall lawn care that combines weed control and fertilizer to strengthen turf before winter. It is applied with a broadcast or drop spreader to a wet lawn on calm days when weeds are actively growing and temperatures are between 60°F and 90°F. The formulation claims control of over 50 listed weeds such as dandelion and clover while delivering nutrients to build stronger roots and help turf recover from summer stress. Practical benefits include wide coverage from a single 33.84 lb. bag, straightforward spreader settings provided by the manufacturer, and timing guidance that helps maximize efficacy. Important limitations are that it is season-specific for fall application and requires following precise conditions around moisture, temperature, and no rain for 24 hours after application to work correctly. Also it is a conventional chemical treatment so users should follow safety instructions to avoid exposure to children, pets, and non-target plants.
Best for: Homeowners who prioritize a dependable, single-step fall treatment to reduce weeds and strengthen lawns for spring and who follow label directions and application timing carefully.
Less Ideal for: People seeking an all-season weed control plan or organic/chemical-free alternatives should consider different products or integrated approaches.
- Combines weed control and fertilizer in one fall application to simplify lawn care
- Manufacturer provides specific spreader settings for accurate application
- Covers up to 12,000 sq ft from a single bag for broad yard coverage
- Targets over 50 common lawn weeds while promoting stronger root development
- Formulated for fall use only and not suitable as a general year-round weed solution
- Requires specific weather and moisture conditions and a 24-hour rain-free window for best results
Verdict: A reliable fall-focused weed-and-feed that simplifies prep for a healthier lawn next spring by combining broad weed control with fertilizer in one application.
Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed 3, Granular Lawn Fertilizer and Weed Killer, 14.29 lb
| Item Form | Granule |
|---|---|
| Coverage | 5000 square_feet |
| Active Ingredients | 2,4-D 1.220%, Mecoprop 0.081% |
Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed3 is a granular lawn product that combines a fertilizer with broadleaf weed control for routine lawn maintenance. It is applied with a broadcast or drop spreader to a wet lawn when daytime temperatures are between 60 and 90°F, and it uses WeedGrip technology to help granules stick to weed leaves for better uptake. In practice it kills common weeds such as dandelion and clover while delivering nutrients to thicken grass, so treated areas often green up and look fuller over a few weeks. The package covers about 5,000 sq. ft. and manufacturer instructions recommend avoiding certain grass types and keeping people and pets off the lawn until dust settles. Important limitations are that it is not safe for some turf species and must not be watered for 24 hours after application; timing and correct spreader settings affect results. For homeowners wanting a combined feed-and-weed treatment for standard lawns, it simplifies two tasks into one application, but it requires following the label closely for safe and effective use.
Best for: Homeowners seeking a straightforward, combined fertilizer and weed-control treatment to maintain and thicken common cool- and warm-season turf in a typical yard.
Less Ideal for: Specialist turf managers, owners of sensitive turf varieties (listed on the label), or those who need spot treatment only rather than whole-lawn applications.
- Combines fertilizer and broadleaf weed control in one granular product
- WeedGrip formulation helps granules adhere to weed leaves for improved herbicide contact
- Covers approximately 5,000 sq. ft. per 14.29 lb bag, suitable for many small to medium lawns
- Clear application guidance for use with common spreaders and specific temperature/wetting windows
- Contains active herbicide ingredients not appropriate for all turf types and must be avoided on listed grasses
- Requires strict timing and no watering for 24 hours after application to be effective and safe
Verdict: A practical one-step weed-and-feed for typical lawns that feeds turf while targeting common broadleaf weeds across a 5,000 sq. ft. area.
Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Fall Weed & Feed, 11.43 lb
| Item Form | Granule |
|---|---|
| Coverage | 4000 square feet |
Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard is a fall granular weed-and-feed formulated to kill common broadleaf weeds such as clover and dandelion while feeding cool- and warm-season grasses. It is applied with a broadcast or drop spreader to a moist lawn on a calm day when temperatures are between 60°F and 90°F. Notable features include WeedGrip Technology to improve granule adhesion to weed leaves, instructions tuned for Scotts spreaders, and coverage sized for about 4,000 square feet per 11.43 lb bag. In practice it simplifies a seasonal task by combining weed control and fertilization in one application, which helps build root strength and recover summer stress heading into winter. Important limitations are that it is labeled for specific grass types only and must not be used on St. Augustinegrass, bentgrass, or several groundcover species, and you must avoid watering for 24 hours after application for best effect. For homeowners who want a dependable, single-step fall treatment for typical lawn weeds, this performs as advertised; those with unsupported grass types or very large lawns will need a different product or multiple bags.
Best for: Homeowners who prioritize a reliable, low-effort fall solution to eliminate clover and other broadleaf weeds while feeding their lawn for winter hardiness.
Less Ideal for: Properties planted with unsupported turf species or buyers who need coverage for very large lawns without buying multiple bags.
- Kills over 50 listed lawn weeds including clover and dandelion
- Combined fertilizer and weed control saves an extra application
- WeedGrip Technology helps granules stick to moist weed leaves for better uptake
- Clear application guidance for use with Scotts spreaders and recommended timing
- Labeled for specific grass types only and should not be used on St. Augustinegrass, bentgrass, or certain groundcovers
Verdict: Choose this product if you want a dependable one-step fall treatment that both kills clover and feeds your lawn to build stronger roots for spring.
Choosing the Right Weed Killer Fertilizer: Key Factors to Consider
Herbicide Spectrum and Target Weeds
Understanding which weeds a product controls is the first step. Some formulations focus on broadleaf weeds like clover, dandelion, and plantain, while others include actives that also suppress grassy weeds. Match the herbicide spectrum to the problems you actually have. A product strong on broadleaf control but weak on grassy weeds will not solve crabgrass or foxtail infestations.
Also consider systemic versus contact action. Systemic herbicides move inside the plant to kill roots and are better for perennial weeds, while contact herbicides only affect the foliage and require very thorough coverage. Choosing the wrong type can mean repeat treatments and patchy results.
Nutrient Ratio and Recovery Needs
Weed killer fertilizers combine herbicide with N-P-K and sometimes micronutrients. Check the nutrient ratio to see if it supports the turf or plants you want to recover quickly after weed control. Higher nitrogen boosts green-up but can stress newly treated areas if applied too soon after a strong herbicide. A balanced formula with modest nitrogen and added potassium often aids recovery without overstimulating seedling weeds.
Consider timing relative to the growing season. In early spring you may prioritize weed suppression and steady feeding; in late summer or fall you may prefer formulas emphasizing root health. For garden beds with ornamentals, choose gentler nutrient mixes that reduce transplant or foliage stress.
Application Method and Equipment Needs
Different products require granular spreaders, hose-end sprayers, or hand-pump sprayers. The chosen method affects coverage uniformity and the risk of damaging desirable plants. Granular weed killer fertilizers are easy to apply broadly on lawns but can be hard to place precisely near borders and beds. Liquid formulations allow spot treatment and better control around plantings but need careful mixing and might require surfactants.
Also think about calibration and how instructions translate to your equipment. Clear label guidance for spreader settings or sprayer dilution reduces the chance of over-application. If you have uneven terrain or small lawn patches, choose the method that delivers the most consistent coverage for your layout.
Turf Type Compatibility and Plant Safety
Not every fertilizer-herbicide blend suits all turfgrasses or ornamental plants. Cool-season grasses and warm-season grasses differ in tolerance to certain herbicide chemistries and nutrient schedules. Review whether a product is labeled for your turf type, and pay attention to any cautions about sensitive species in adjacent beds.
Plant safety also includes waiting periods before mowing, irrigation restrictions, and recommended re-seeding windows. Matching products to your grass and landscape reduces the risk of burn, thinning, or unintended damage to flowers and vegetables.
Residual Control and Re-treatment Timing
Some herbicides offer residual soil activity that prevents new weeds from emerging for a period, while others act only on existing foliage. Residual control can reduce follow-up treatments but may restrict re-seeding or planting in treated areas. Determine how long residual activity lasts and whether you plan to over-seed, plant transplants, or harvest nearby edibles.
If frequent re-treatment is likely in high-pressure weed areas, choose a product with predictable re-application intervals and clear guidance on cumulative annual application limits. That helps you plan a season-long management strategy without exceeding safe use recommendations.
Safety, Environmental, and Label Considerations
Always read label instructions for personal protective equipment, runoff warnings, and re-entry intervals. Some formulations have restrictions around water bodies, pollinator exposure, or companion planting. Choosing products with lower drift potential and clear buffer guidance helps protect beneficial insects and nearby plantings.
Disposal and storage instructions also matter. Look for products with straightforward handling requirements that fit your storage options and do not require complicated disposal steps.
When to Use a Combined Weed Killer Fertilizer
A combined weed killer fertilizer is useful when you want simultaneous weed suppression and a nutrient boost to grass or established plants. They are practical during active growth periods when weeds are visible and the lawn can quickly use the applied nutrients.
Avoid combined products when you plan to over-seed or plant new transplants right away, especially if the herbicide has residual soil activity. In those cases, separate timing of herbicide and fertilizer reduces risk to seedlings.
- Best for established lawns needing maintenance during the growing season
- Useful for spot-treating weed patches while feeding surrounding turf
- Not ideal immediately before seeding or sensitive transplanting
Timing Treatments Through the Year
Match treatment timing to weed life cycles. Broadleaf weeds often respond well in spring and fall when they are actively growing, while pre-emergent strategies for grassy weeds are handled differently and are not part of combined post-emergent formulations.
For lawns, apply when grass is actively growing and can recover within a few weeks. Avoid application during drought stress or extreme heat to reduce burn risk and improve uptake.
- Spring and fall are generally best for broadleaf control plus feeding
- Skip application during heat waves or prolonged dry spells
- Follow label windows for re-seeding or replanting after treatment
Spot Treatment Techniques
Spot treating with a liquid weed killer fertilizer allows you to target problem areas while preserving nearby ornamentals. Use a hand-pump sprayer or targeted applicator with a shield to prevent drift and overspray.
For small patches, dilute according to the label for spot work rather than full-yard concentration. Rinse equipment and avoid treating downwind of sensitive plants.
- Use shields or nozzle adjustments to limit drift
- Treat on calm days and early in the morning for best uptake
- Consider physical removal for isolated perennial weeds before chemical treatment
Watering and Mowing After Application
Watering and mowing schedule after application depends on the formulation. Some products require a dry period after application for herbicide uptake, while others need light irrigation to move active ingredients into the soil. Follow label directions closely for best results.
Delay heavy mowing for the period recommended on the label to avoid removing treated foliage and reducing effectiveness. Light mowing may be acceptable, but avoid collecting clippings for a short window if the label advises.
- Check whether irrigation is recommended or restricted
- Wait the label-specified time before mowing or collecting clippings
- Avoid over-watering immediately after treatment unless instructed
Integrating With Cultural Weed Control
Weed killer fertilizers work best as part of a broader cultural program that includes proper mowing height, overseeding, and soil health management. Healthy, dense turf competes better with weeds and reduces reliance on repeat chemical applications.
Addressing soil compaction, pH imbalances, and nutrient deficiencies improves long-term weed resistance. Use combined products as a corrective tool rather than the only strategy.
- Aeration and appropriate fertilization reduce weed pressure over time
- Adjust mowing height to favor desired grass species
- Test soil periodically to guide nutrient choices and avoid overuse
How We Chose the Best Weed Killer Fertilizer
We evaluated products that combine herbicidal action with fertilizer in a single formulation and excluded separate tank-mix approaches. Priority criteria were the herbicide spectrum, fertilizer analysis, and application flexibility for lawns and garden edges. We favored formulations with clear instructions and established dilution or spreader settings to minimize risk to desirable plants. Practical handling and coverage mattered: we checked label guidance for treated area per container, recommended spreader or sprayer type, and compatibility with common turf types. Safety and re-entry intervals were considered, along with whether the formula included surfactants or other adjuvants that affect weed contact. Products lacking clear use directions, those limited to a single weed group without broader utility, or those with unusually long re-entry or irrigation restrictions were excluded. Our selection balanced effectiveness against common broadleaf and grassy weeds, nutrient balance to support recovery, and real-world usability for home gardeners and lawn-care maintenance.
FAQ
Can I use weed killer fertilizer around flower beds and vegetable gardens?
Often you can, but it depends on the product label. Many combined formulations are labeled for lawns and landscape areas but caution against use directly on or too close to edible crops and sensitive ornamentals. Use shields, spot treatments, and follow buffer recommendations to protect nearby plants.
How long after applying can I re-seed my lawn?
It usually depends on the herbicide residual. Some products allow re-seeding in a few weeks, while others recommend waiting several months. Check the label for specific waiting periods before over-seeding or planting new turf.
Will weed killer fertilizer harm my pets or pollinators?
Risk varies by formulation and how it is applied. Most labels include guidance on keeping pets off treated areas until dry and note precautions for pollinators. Avoid spraying flowering plants and follow safety intervals listed on the product.
Can I mix a weed killer fertilizer with other garden chemicals?
Mixing should only be done if the label explicitly permits it. Compatibility tests and clear instructions are necessary because some combinations reduce effectiveness or increase plant injury. When in doubt, make separate applications as directed.
How often should I expect to reapply during the growing season?
Re-application frequency depends on the herbicide active ingredient and label limits. Some products are designed for single-season corrective use, while others allow multiple applications spaced out according to label intervals. Avoid exceeding annual application limits.
Is granular or liquid weed killer fertilizer better for small yards?
Small yards can benefit from liquid spot treatments for precision, but granular products are quick for whole-lawn coverage. Your choice should reflect the garden layout, access to sprayers, and the need to protect nearby beds and ornamentals.
Final Verdict
Pick a weed killer fertilizer that matches the weeds you need to control and the turf or plants you want to protect. Prioritize a product whose herbicide spectrum, nutrient balance, and application method align with your timing and equipment. Accept tradeoffs between stronger residual control and re-seeding windows, and plan cultural practices alongside chemical treatment to reduce future weed pressure. With the right match, you will suppress weeds while helping desirable plants recover and maintain a healthier lawn or garden.
