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If you want a thicker, greener lawn and fewer broadleaf weeds without extra watering or multiple products, choosing the right High Yield Weed and Feed matters. These combined fertilizer-plus-herbicide formulas behave differently depending on grass type, time of year, and application rate, so picking an option that matches your site and schedule reduces stress on turf and cuts repeat work. This guide covers seven shortlisted options that match common home and small-property needs. We evaluate coverage per bag, nutrient mix and release profile, weed control spectrum, and gardener-focused safety and application factors to help you match a product to your lawn goals.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action 14.1 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 | GreenView Weed & Feed Lawn Fertilizer, 39 lb (Covers 15,000 sq ft) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Scotts Weed Control for Lawns, 14 lb. Granules |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Preen Garden Weed Preventer + Plant Food, Granules, 16 lb. |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Spectracide Weed & Feed 20-0-0, Dual Action Liquid, 32 fl oz (3-Pack) |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed2, 13.79 lb |  |
Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action 14.1 lb
| Item Form | Granule |
|---|---|
| Coverage | 5,000 sq. ft. |
| Active Ingredients | Pendimethalin 1.22%, 2,4-D 1.22%, Dicamba 0.081% |
Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action combines weed control, crabgrass prevention, and fertilizer in one granular bag to simplify spring lawn care. You apply it with a broadcast spreader when dandelions are actively growing and the grass is wet so granules stick to weed leaves, then water 24 hours later to move the preventative ingredient into the soil. The formula lists active herbicides (pendimethalin, 2,4-D, and dicamba) plus nutrients, so it both removes many common broadleaf weeds and establishes a barrier against new grassy weeds like crabgrass for up to four months while feeding the grass. In practice this reduces the number of separate products and applications needed across a 5,000 sq. ft. lawn. Important limitations are the restricted application window and safety precautions: follow label directions, avoid use on sensitive grass types or newly seeded lawns, and keep people and pets off treated areas until dust settles. Also it will not kill existing crabgrass, only prevent future germination.
Best for: Homeowners who prioritize strong seasonal performance and want a single product to reduce application steps while improving lawn density and weed suppression.
Less Ideal for: Those with newly seeded or very young lawns, people who prefer organic-only products, or gardeners treating areas near ponds or sensitive aquatic life.
- Three-in-one formula combines fertilizer, broadleaf weed control, and crabgrass prevention
- Covers up to 5,000 sq. ft. from a single 14.1 lb bag
- Designed for use with a Scotts spreader for even application
- Provides up to four months of crabgrass prevention when applied correctly
- Contains herbicides that require careful handling and re-entry restrictions
- Does not kill existing crabgrass, only prevents new germination
Verdict: If you want a performance-focused, all-in-one spring treatment to feed your lawn while preventing crabgrass and controlling common broadleaf weeds, this product delivers in a single application.
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.
GreenView Weed & Feed Lawn Fertilizer, 39 lb (Covers 15,000 sq ft)
| NPK | 27-0-4 |
|---|---|
| Form | Granule |
| Coverage | 15000 sq ft |
| Active Ingredient | Nitrogen |
| Unit Count | 624 Ounce |
GreenView Weed & Feed is a single-application granular product that combines a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer with a broadleaf herbicide to feed turf and control common lawn weeds. It is typically applied to established lawns when weeds are actively growing, using the recommended rate and watering in afterward; the bag covers up to 15,000 square feet at the stated application rate. Notable features include MESA controlled-release nitrogen for up to eight weeks of steady feeding and labeled control of over 250 weeds such as dandelion and clover. Practical benefits are faster, uniform green-up without a surge of growth, improved root development for heat and drought tolerance, and convenience from a combined weed-control plus fertilizer approach. Important limitations are that it is intended only for established turf and specific grass species, requires careful timing (do not mow two days before or after application) and is not suitable for some grasses like dichondra or certain St. Augustine varieties in Florida, so checking the label for species compatibility is essential.
Best for: A cautious buyer who values proven results and wants a convenient, evidence-backed product to maintain and improve established warm- or cool-season lawns while reducing application frequency.
Less Ideal for: Do not choose this if you are overseeding, establishing a new lawn, or managing grass types listed as incompatible such as certain Floratam St. Augustine selections or non-turf groundcovers.
- Combines fertilizer and herbicide so you treat weeds while feeding in one application
- MESA controlled-release nitrogen provides up to 8 weeks of steady feeding
- Labeled to control over 250 common broadleaf lawn weeds
- Large 39 lb bag covers up to 15,000 sq ft at the recommended rate
- Formulation is for established turf only and can harm non-listed species
- Requires precise timing and watering instructions to work effectively
Verdict: Choose this if you want a single, proven weed-and-feed product that delivers steady feeding and broadleaf weed control across common established turf.
Scotts Weed Control for Lawns, 14 lb. Granules
| Item Form | Granule |
|---|---|
| Coverage | 5000 square_feet |
| Active Ingredients | 1.108% 2,4-D, 0.167% Mecoprop-p, 0.071% Dicamba |
Scotts Weed Control for Lawns is a ready-to-use granular broadleaf weed killer intended for residential turf. You broadcast it over actively growing weeds in spring or early fall using a spreader, avoid watering for 1 to 2 days so the granules contact leaves, then water thoroughly to move the product into the root zone. The formula contains 2,4-D, Mecoprop-p, and Dicamba and is labeled to control common targets such as dandelion, clover, chickweed, and ground ivy. Practical benefits include easy application with a recommended Scotts spreader, single-bag coverage of 5,000 sq. ft., and a fast contact action that works down to the root. Important limitations are the species exclusions and turf cautions — it must not be used on certain grasses (Dichondra, Carpetgrass, Floratam St. Augustine, Creeping Bentgrass) or where desirable clover grows, and care is needed to follow spreader settings and post-application watering instructions. For a balanced homeowner wanting straightforward, granular broadleaf control on compatible lawns, this is a convenient option.
Best for: Homeowners who want a simple, granular solution to reduce common broadleaf weeds across a medium-sized lawn and prefer an easy spreader-applied product.
Less Ideal for: People managing sensitive turf varieties listed on the label or those who need a weed product safe for lawns with desirable clover or specialized grass species.
- Controls over 200 broadleaf weed species including dandelion and clover
- Covers up to 5,000 sq. ft. from a single 14 lb. bag
- Granular form is easy to apply with a spreader and avoids mixing
- Starts working on contact and is formulated to kill to the root
- Not safe for several turf types and must be avoided where desirable clover exists
- Requires careful timing, spreader settings, and 1–2 days without rain or watering after application
Verdict: A convenient, spreader-ready granular formula for homeowners who need reliable broadleaf weed control on compatible lawns up to 5,000 sq. ft.
Preen Garden Weed Preventer + Plant Food, Granules, 16 lb.
| Item Form | Granule |
|---|---|
| Coverage | 3365 sq ft |
This Preen product combines a pre-emergent weed barrier with a low-level fertilizer so you can prevent weed seedlings while feeding established ornamentals and edibles. It is applied as granules on top of mulch or bare soil, then watered to activate an ingredient that forms an underground barrier. Typical use is a single application in spring or during the growing season to protect flower beds, around trees and shrubs, and vegetable areas listed as safe for use. Notable features include a flip-top style applicator on some SKUs and coverage large enough for multiple beds from one container. The practical benefits are less time spent pulling young weeds and a modest boost to blooms and root development from the included plant food. Important limitations are that it does not kill existing weeds so beds must be weeded first and it is a preventative rather than a curative product, and some formulas provide control for three months while extended-control versions claim up to six months, so reapplication timing matters.
Best for: Gardeners who prioritize a dependable, low-effort strategy to keep beds weed-free and want steady plant nutrition without frequent feeding.
Less Ideal for: People needing an immediate weed-killing solution for existing, established weeds or those who require precise nutrient formulations for specialist crops.
- Combined weed prevention and balanced fertilizer reduces separate feeding steps
- Granular formula is easy to sprinkle over mulch and activated by watering
- Covers a large area from one container, suitable for multiple beds
- Safe for use around a long list of established flowers, vegetables, trees, and shrubs
- Does not kill existing weeds so thorough weeding is required before application
- Different formulations offer varying control durations which requires attention when scheduling reapplications
Verdict: Choose this product if you want a reliable, two-in-one granular treatment that prevents new weeds while giving plants a steady boost so you can spend less time weeding and feeding.
Spectracide Weed & Feed 20-0-0, Dual Action Liquid, 32 fl oz (3-Pack)
| Item Form | Liquid |
|---|---|
| Coverage | 7,500 square feet |
| Unit Count | 96 Ounce |
| Number of Packs | 3 |
Spectracide Weed & Feed 20-0-0 is a hose-end liquid that combines fertilizer and a broadleaf herbicide so you can treat weeds and feed the lawn in one pass. You attach the QuickFlip sprayer to a garden hose and spray the product over actively growing weeds; one 32 fl oz bottle is rated to cover up to 7,500 square feet and the three-pack supplies multiple applications. The 20% nitrogen formulation helps green up grass while the active ingredient targets dandelion, clover, chickweed and similar broadleaf weeds. It requires no measuring or mixing, and application typically takes about 20 minutes per bottle depending on water pressure. Important limits to note are timing and temperature restrictions you must follow to avoid turf injury, and very tough weeds may need a follow-up spot treatment after a few weeks. Also the hose-end delivery depends on household water pressure for spray quality and coverage consistency.
Best for: Buyers who want a simple, low-effort way to control common broadleaf weeds while feeding their lawn and who prefer products with straightforward application instructions and predictable results.
Less Ideal for: Users needing selective control of grass weeds or professional landscapers seeking granular, high-precision fertilization plans should consider specialized products or professional services instead.
- Two-in-one action fertilizes lawn while killing many common broadleaf weeds
- QuickFlip hose-end sprayer for no-mix, easy application
- One 32 fl oz bottle covers up to 7,500 sq ft, and the 3-pack gives multiple treatments
- Formulated with 20% nitrogen to visibly green turf after application
- Should not be applied when air temperatures exceed 85°F to avoid grass damage
- Effectiveness on very tough or persistent weeds may require additional spot treatments
Verdict: If you want an easy, no‑mix hose-end solution to kill common broadleaf weeds while feeding your lawn, this Spectracide three-pack delivers fast, convenient coverage.
Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed2, 13.79 lb
| Item Form | Granule |
|---|---|
| Coverage | 4000 square feet |
| Unit Count | 220.64 Ounce |
This Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed & Feed2 combines a broadleaf weed killer with a slow-release fertilizer made specifically for southern lawns. It is designed for spot-to-whole-lawn applications with a broadcast or drop spreader and must be applied to a dry, actively growing lawn and watered in immediately. Notable features include a formula that targets more than 25 southern weed species, including clover, and guidance for spreader settings to ensure even coverage. Practical benefits are twofold: it reduces existing broadleaf weeds while providing nutrients that encourage grass to fill in and compete with future weeds, helping create a denser turf. Important limitations are that it is labeled only for St. Augustine, Centipede, Zoysia, and Carpetgrass and should not be used during winter dormancy or on other grass types, and timing matters—apply after the third mowing when soil temperatures reach the recommended range. Coverage per 13.79 lb bag is 4,000 square feet, so larger yards will need multiple bags or a larger size option.
Best for: Homeowners with southern-style lawns who want a single product to control clover and other broadleaf weeds while feeding the turf, and who follow label timing and application guidance.
Less Ideal for: Those with cool-season lawns, mixed-grass yards, or users who prefer spot-treating weeds with herbicide-only products should look elsewhere.
- Kills a wide range of southern broadleaf weeds including clover
- Feeds grass while killing weeds to encourage thicker turf
- Formulated for common southern grasses so label directions are targeted
- Includes recommended spreader settings for even application
- Restricted to specific southern grass types and not safe for all lawns
- Must be applied when grass is actively growing and watered in immediately which requires correct timing
Verdict: Choose this if you have a southern grass lawn and want one granular product that kills clover and other broadleaf weeds while feeding the turf to promote a denser lawn.
Choosing the Right High Yield Weed and Feed: Key Factors to Consider
Nutrient Composition and Release Type
The fertilizer portion determines how quickly grass responds and how long benefits last. A higher quick-release nitrogen percentage produces fast green-up within days but can burn if overapplied or used in hot, dry weather. A mix that includes slow-release or coated nitrogen provides sustained feeding over weeks, reducing the need for follow-up applications and smoothing growth spurts.
Understanding the N-P-K numbers and the proportion of soluble to slow-release nitrogen helps you match a product to your mowing and irrigation routine. Lawns that receive regular irrigation can tolerate more quick-release nitrogen, while drought-prone lawns do better with higher slow-release fractions.
Herbicide Actives and Target Weeds
Not all weed-and-feed products control the same spectrum of broadleaf weeds. Check which active ingredients are listed and which weeds are claimed on the label so you know whether common problems like clover, dandelion, plantain, or chickweed are covered. Some actives perform better on specific weeds or at certain growth stages.
Timing matters for herbicide efficacy. Many post-emergent herbicides work best when weeds are actively growing and not drought-stressed. A product that lists effective control for your dominant weeds and fits the season you plan to treat will deliver the most consistent results.
Coverage Rate and Bag Yield
Coverage per bag dictates how much area you can treat with a single purchase and affects cost per square foot. Labels usually give a range of application rates tied to desired nitrogen pounds per 1,000 square feet. Pay attention to the recommended rate for both feeding and herbicide efficacy because using too low a rate can reduce weed control, while too high a rate risks turf injury.
Estimating lawn area accurately and choosing a product whose coverage matches that area reduces waste and ensures you apply the labeled rate. Consider whether you need multiple passes for spot treatments versus whole-yard applications and pick a bag size or formulation that makes those workflows simple.
Application Method and Equipment Compatibility
Granule size and how a product spreads influences evenness of application. Some granules flow smoothly through common broadcast spreaders, while others clump or require hand spreading for small areas. Look for products with application instructions for the type of spreader you own and settings for common machines.
Ease of application also covers mixing for liquid formulations, recommended reentry intervals, and whether the product needs immediate watering-in. Choosing a formulation that matches your tools and technique reduces application error and helps achieve uniform turf results.
Timing and Turf Safety
Applying at the right season and under the right conditions reduces stress on grass and increases weed control. Cool-season lawns generally respond differently than warm-season lawns; labels usually specify optimal application windows. Avoid applications during extreme heat or drought to prevent burning. Follow any listed reentry or irrigation recommendations to limit human and pet exposure and to help the herbicide activate properly.
Consider your mowing schedule and any recent renovations. Newly seeded or sodded areas will often be excluded from treatment until they are established. Prioritize products that provide clear guidance about safe timing to protect tender turf while still addressing weeds.
Environmental and Household Safety Considerations
Pay attention to environmental precautions on the label, including restrictions near water features, desirable ornamentals, or vegetable gardens. Some herbicide actives can injure nearby broadleaf plants if particles drift or if lawn clippings are used as mulch. Choose products with clear containment and runoff guidance when working near slopes or hardscapes.
Also check reentry intervals and pet restrictions. If you have children or pets that use the lawn frequently, shorter reentry times and clear watering guidance help you plan safe windows for play after application.
When to Apply High Yield Weed and Feed
Timing depends on the grass type and local climate. For cool-season lawns, early fall and early spring are often the best windows because turf is actively growing and weeds are vulnerable. Warm-season grasses typically respond best to treatments in late spring through early summer when the grass is out of dormancy and weeds are actively growing.
Avoid applying during drought, heat waves, or when the lawn is newly seeded. Weather forecasts matter because heavy rain shortly after application can reduce herbicide effectiveness, while no rain when a watering-in step is required can limit activation.
- Check label windows for cool- versus warm-season grasses
- Avoid applications during extreme heat or drought
- Plan around heavy rain to prevent wash-off
Preparing the Lawn for Treatment
Mow to a normal height and remove excess clippings before applying. A uniform mowing height helps granules contact the turf canopy rather than accumulate in thatch or depressions. Watering a day or two before application can help weeds be actively growing, which improves herbicide uptake, but do not apply right after irrigation unless the product allows it.
Mark areas with desirable broadleaf plants and protect them from drift. Close attention to spreader settings and walking speed during application helps maintain even distribution across the lawn.
- Mow and clear debris before spreading
- Avoid overlapping spreader passes to prevent burn
- Protect shrubs and flower beds from drift
Post-Application Care and Expectations
After application follow label instructions for watering. Some products call for immediate light irrigation to move granules into the root zone; others advise waiting for a dry period so herbicide can be absorbed. Expect fertilizer effects to show as greener turf within one to three weeks, and herbicide browning or dieback of targeted weeds in one to four weeks depending on species and growth stage.
Do not reseed or sod treated areas until the interval specified on the label. Keep pets and children off the lawn for the recommended reentry period and handle clippings with caution if they might be used near sensitive plants.
- Follow watering-in instructions precisely
- Monitor treated weeds for progressive decline over weeks
- Delay reseeding according to label timelines
Spot Treatment Versus Whole-Lawn Applications
If weeds are confined to patches, consider spot treatment with a targeted herbicide rather than applying a full lawn weed-and-feed. Spot-treating reduces chemical use and limits turf stress, especially in small problem areas. Whole-lawn applications are more efficient for diffuse weed pressure or when feeding is needed across the entire yard.
When planning spot control, avoid contaminating granules with higher herbicide concentrations. Use products specifically designed for spot work or follow the dilution and application guidance on the label to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Use spot treatments for isolated infestations
- Choose whole-lawn feeds when broad nutrient boost is needed
- Ensure correct dilution and application for spot sprays
Managing Expectations for Complex Weed Problems
Some weeds are persistent and may require multiple tactics. Deep-rooted perennials or grasses that appear in lawns, such as nutsedge or plantain, may not be fully controlled by a single application. Combine cultural practices like proper mowing, irrigation, and overseeding with targeted herbicide strategies for long-term reduction.
Recordkeeping helps. Note application dates, weather conditions, and observed effectiveness so you can adapt timing and product choices in subsequent seasons.
- Combine cultural controls with chemical treatment for tough weeds
- Track applications and outcomes for better future planning
- Expect some species to need follow-up treatments
How We Chose the Best High Yield Weed and Feed
We shortlisted products that deliver both fertilizer and broadleaf weed control in a single packaged formula designed for home lawns and small properties. Selection focused on measurable product attributes gardeners can verify on the label: nitrogen percentage and release type, listed active herbicide ingredients, coverage per unit, and recommended application windows for cool- and warm-season grasses. We also considered ease of application, including granule size and feed spreader compatibility, plus guidance on watering-in and reentry intervals. Excluded items included specialty mixes intended only for professional turf managers, granular feed-only or herbicide-only products, and formulations labeled exclusively for sports fields or commercial sod farms. We prioritized options that balance a meaningful fertilizer program with effective post-emergent broadleaf control, and that offer clear instructions for safe homeowner use. The result is a list focused on performance in real garden conditions, predictable coverage, and manageable safety and timing requirements.
FAQ
Can I use High Yield Weed and Feed on newly seeded lawns?
Usually you should not. Most labels restrict use on newly seeded or sodded turf until the grass is well established. Newly germinated seedlings are sensitive to fertilizer salts and herbicides, so wait the label-specified interval to avoid stunting or killing new grass.
How long before I can water or mow after applying?
That depends on the product. Some require immediate light irrigation to activate granular herbicides, while others advise waiting a day to allow uptake. Mowing is often okay once granules are watered in and the grass has recovered from any short-term stress, but follow the product label for precise timing.
Will a single application eliminate all common broadleaf weeds?
Often it will control many common broadleaf weeds, but effectiveness varies by species and growth stage. Some stubborn or deep-rooted weeds may need additional treatments or complementary cultural practices to be fully managed.
Is it safe for pets and children to use the lawn after treatment?
Safety depends on the product and label directions. Most labels specify a reentry interval for people and pets and give guidance on watering and when it is safe to let animals back on the grass. Follow those instructions closely to minimize exposure risk.
Can I apply High Yield Weed and Feed during hot, dry weather?
Applying during extreme heat or drought increases the risk of turf burn and reduces herbicide uptake by stressed weeds. It is usually better to wait for milder conditions and ensure weeds are actively growing for best control.
Final Verdict
Choosing a High Yield Weed and Feed requires balancing a fertilizer program with effective broadleaf weed control while protecting turf health. Prioritize products with a nutrient release profile that matches your irrigation and mowing habits, plus herbicide actives that target the weeds you see most often. Be realistic about timing and turf sensitivity. When you match application windows, coverage needs, and safety guidance to your yard, you get the best combination of green-up and weed reduction with minimal stress to the lawn.
