Best Overall
Espoma Organic Weed Preventer Plus Lawn Food
Best Bang for the Buck
Harris 20% Vinegar Weed Killer
Best for Perennial Beds
Bonide Captain Jack’s Deadweed Brew Concentrate
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grass spread rapidly across garden and push out desirable plants , but finding a suitable weed killer for flower bed can be a challenge . We recently tested eight weed killers from reputable sword , bounteous and small , that do not moderate chemicals that harm the land and pose health peril to people , creature , or insects when used suitably . The good dope cause of death for efflorescence bed are safe , sustainable , and effectively eradicate unwanted grasses and weed whengardening .
Our favorite nonpoisonous weed killer is theEspoma Organic Weed Preventer Plus Lawn Food , thanks to its natural composition , which is safe to handle , wo n’t harm wildlife or soil , and is very effective . We considered all the constituent shoppers will need to believe before buying these products and listed our top pick for the near weed killer . Keep understand to instruct what to look for when buy at for the sound weed killers for flower beds and why the following picks are among the options useable .
Our Top Picks
In pile up this list , we look for the dear locoweed killer for blossom bed that wo n’t obliterate flowers . However , due to the nonselective nature of most recipe , we adjusted our criteria to emphasize products that are environmentally dependable , sustainable , and easy to practice .
Espoma Organic Weed Preventer, 25 Pounds CGP25
Our rating : Application5/5 ; Effectiveness5/5 ; Value5/5
Home gardeners and landscape gardener who have planted their flower beds and want to prevent new skunk may be interested in the Espoma Organic weed preventer . This nonselective chondritic convention is made from 100 percent corn gluten , often used as a natural pre - emergent weedkiller and one of the best dope slayer that wo n’t kill pot .
Espoma Organic gage killer is a top option because it is effective , easy to use , and secure for utilization around children and pets . Timing is all important when using a pre - emergent . This merchandise has corn gluten meal as its alive ingredient , inhibiting the root development of sprouting weed germ . This reduces the emergence of new weeds . It must be applied at specific times of the twelvemonth — specifically before weed seed germinate , typically early in the springiness and again in the fall , to maximise its effectiveness to kill weeds , not grass . We applied it to our flower bed in the spring before the summertime weeds could take hold . We also used it with ornamental mulch , splosh the corn gluten over the ground in the flower bed before add the mulch on top . The upshot was just what we desire — no pot in our peak beds when the weather condition warm up .
Although this constitutive product is label a lawn smoke killer , it will function the same way in a flower bed by helping prevent weed come from spud . However , it wo n’t kill established weeds , so those must be removed before using this organic merchandise . Additionally , as its primary ingredient is corn gluten , it may attract squirrel and rodent . Any fresh preventer must be stored in a rigid plastic container . Even though we see a few pests looking for food , the welfare of this true Cartesian product make it all worthwhile .
Get the Espoma Organic weed killer for flower beds atAce HardwareorTrue Value .
Harris 20% Vinegar Weed and Grass Killer
Our Ratings : Application5/5 ; Effectiveness4/5 ; Value5/5
To banish Mary Jane in and around flower beds in an economically — and ecologically — well-disposed way , shoppers will want to consider Harris 20 % acetum weed and grass Killer . It features saturated acetic Elvis ( acetum ) as its fighting fixings . This low-cost weed killer come up in a 32 - apothecaries' ounce spray bottle , allowing drug user to apply the product directly on the offending weeds , making it our choice for one of the best weed killer sprays .
During our examination , the Harris weed and grass killer turn out its effectiveness , particularly against vernal weeds . While it may require a little solitaire , it ’s worth the wait . This non - inst solution work over a few mean solar day , take a leak it most effective at killing young weeds before they shew deep tooth root scheme . use it to mourning band that have recently sprout and are vulnerable for unspoilt results . It ’s not super good at killing established weeds . However , this pick is the good mourning band sprayer we sample and is utter for promptly clear a bloom layer of young weeds before implant your flowers .
This is a nonselective weed killer , mean it can kill or damage any plant it comes into tangency with , including your worthy flowers . If necessary , view harbour those pretty nosegay with plastic film during applications programme , off the plastic after the solution has dry . Although it is moot good , wear protective clothing and something to harbor your eyes is advisable . Vinegar is corrosive and can make eye harm and cutis irritation . However , if used appropriately , the Harris mourning band and grass Killer is an effective sprayer weed killer to keep in your gardening arsenal .
Get the Harris weed sea wolf for flower beds atThe Home DepotorHarris .
Our evaluation : Application4/5 ; Effectiveness5/5 ; Value4.5/5
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
The active ingredient of Captain Jack ’s Deadweed Brew concentrate by Bonide is capric acid , a saturated adipose tissue derived from coconut and palm pith oils that down broadleaf and grassy green goddess by drying out the leaf . Available in a quart - size package with a consecrate measurement cup , this concentrate can make up to 8 gallons of atomiser - on link dope slayer when mixed with body of water .
Captain Jack ’s concentrate kills several weed over magnanimous expanse without noxious aroma . It can be used against annual and perennial broadleaf weeds and grasses , and it works in temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit .
After testing , we bump that Captain Jack ’s efficaciously reject weeds in our flower bed . The concentrate is sluttish to flux and apply , making the covering aboveboard without any complications . You just need to follow the mixing instructions accurately . Once diluted , it ’s quick to apply and coats the leaf evenly , provide beneficial coverage . It go impressively on newly emerged weeds such as dandelion and trefoil , showing visible result within hours . However , its effectivity on established sess with deep roots can be limited , requiring repeated software . Overall , it ’s a reliable ware that bear on its promise , provided you handle it carefully due to its nonselective nature — it will obliterate your bloom if not correctly apply .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
Get the Bonide weed Orcinus orca for flower beds atAmazon .
Best All-Natural
Natural Armor All-Natural Weed & Grass Killer
Our Ratings : Application4/5 ; Effectiveness4/5 ; Value4/5
Natural Armor weed and grass sea wolf is completely free from glyphosate and other rough chemical substance , making it an excellent pick for those who favor a more eco - friendly approach . Its ability to target over 250 type of weed and grasses think of it ’s not only effective but also incredibly powerful despite its natural preparation .
The dope killer have active ingredient sodium chloride and citric dose to vote down weeds effectively . During examination , we plant that it easy killed younger weed but needed repeated applications to destroy established weeds . It acts quickly , shew visible answer fast , which is always satisfying when trying to keep your garden appear its best . The weed grampus is a dressed ore , so you must mix it before usage .
Photo: Ace Hardware
Overall , we recommend Natural Armor to any nurseryman looking for a reliable , raw solution to weed control . Its plant - safe formulation means you do n’t have to worry about harm pollinator or wildlife while tackling undesirable weeds . However , it ’s important to notice that it ’s a nonselective locoweed killer , so measured app is necessary when used around desirable plants .
Get the Natural Armor weed killer for flower beds atAmazonorNatural Armor .
Best Shaker Jug
Preen Natural Vegetable Garden Weed Preventer
Like all Preen weed preventers , this pre - emergent product stop weed seeds from shoot , but this one is entirely innate . It contains only corn gluten , which is known for forbid semen germination . This Preen production can be used in blossom bed and around other type of industrial plant — including fruits and vegetables .
This natural product comes in granular signifier and is wanton to put on with a shaker hat for fuss - free , uniform software . A unmarried app will keep weed seeds from sprouting for 6 weeks . It can be used on spare soil or with mulch , such as shredded barque or pea plant gravel . Like the Espoma constitutive weed preventer , this pre - emergent efficaciously cease all seeds from stock . seeded player of desirable plants will only develop if sown in soil treated with corn gluten once the granules biodegrade to the extent that they no longer act as a barrier to germ germination .
In our test , we applied it to our vegetable garden before adding graft seedling . Our plants were hunky-dory , and novel sens did not pullulate . Spreading it is a cinch since the corn whiskey gluten repast is pelletized . No special equipment is call for — just open and shake . However , since it is a corn gluten repast , it does attract squirrels and other rodents .
Photo: The Home Depot
Get the Preen innate mourning band grampus for flower layer atAmazon , Tractor Supply Co. , orThe Home Depot .
Safest for Pets
Just For Pets Pet-Safe Weed Killer
Our Ratings : Application4/5 ; Effectiveness5/5 ; Value4/5
This herbicide intersection ’s alive locoweed - killing ingredient is acetic acid — or vinegar , as it ’s commonly known — plus some essential oil and citrus to give it a pleasing smell . It ’s secure for pets and the environment . Still , as a nonselectiveorganic weed Orcinus orca , it can harm worthy plants , so apply cautiously .
We have used vinegar - based dope Orcinus orca in the past and hump that the participating fixings was efficacious at killing weed and grasses . Similarly , Just For Pets pet - safe sens slayer easily killed weeds , specially untried , less established weeds . replicate program was necessary to kill more accomplished weeds . While the liquid is quick to use with no mix or dilution require , there ’s no included nebuliser . You ’ll want to pour the liquidness into a trigger - type deal nebulizer or pump - eccentric garden sprayer to apply it . For the serious results , we found that we needed to saturate weeds thoroughly on a dry , sunny twenty-four hours and allow the product to dry all before letting ducky toy in the area .
Photo: Amazon
Get the Just For Pets weed cause of death for flower bed atAmazon .
Best Chemical-Free
Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer
If you take a potent skunk killer that does n’t stop chemicals , deal try out out the Green Gobbler 20 percent vinegar weed and sess killer . It ’s throng with a gamy assiduity of acetum , making it an effective weed and locoweed killer for heyday beds . Most significantly , it ’s free from harmful chemicals , inorganic phosphate , or bleaches that could harm the soil or the surround .
Unlike unconstipated household acetum , which contains 5 percentage acetic acid , Green Gobbler has a significantly higher concentration , reach it effective in eliminating different types of weed , including dandelions and crabgrass . This natural product comes in liquid form and can be easy applied with a hand-held or pump - type garden spray . It ’s a full - strength liquid , so no dilution is necessary .
We ’ve used several vinegar - establish weed killers and retrieve that Green Gobbler works well in eradicating unseasoned weed . Since it is a acetum weed grampus , multiple applications may be needed to extinguish established sens . Be conservative to prevent overspray from contacting desired flowers , bush , or pot , as this nonselective weed slayer can damage or toss off them . It does have a solid vinegar odor , so take care to spray it windward . Overall , we find that this weed cause of death performed well and will be a part of our environmentally safe herbicide assemblage .
Photo: Amazon
Get the Green Gobbler pot killer for flush beds atAmazonorGreen tom turkey .
Best Synthetic Option
Preen Garden Weed Preventer
Preen Garden weed preventer is not an all - natural mathematical product , but it ’s one of the good chondritic weed killers on the mart . It is safe in vegetable garden and decorative flower bed . Its nonselective granular formula is easy to expend . sparge it around the base of desirable flora and over scanty soil in a flower bed , then lightly water it to admit the granules to unfreeze and form a roadblock .
you may also splash Preen Garden Mary Jane preventer overmulch , such as tear up barque or pea gravel , and it will dissolve to form a roadblock that prevents weed seeded player from burgeon forth . However , it is important to take note that this product will also stop desirable seeds from shoot , so guardianship should be taken when propagate it . Preen ’s chemical rule will work continuously for up to 3 months , after which it should be reapplied .
Unlike Preen Natural vegetable garden sens preventer , which forbid cum from germinating , Preen Garden weed preventer is a pre - emerging herbicide that stops seedlings from plant . We love this product because it can be used after laying down mulch and throughout the growing time of year once your desirable plants are established . It is an effective tool in our sess - direction system , but it is crucial to note that this pre - emerging weed killer will not obliterate existing weeds . If any mourning band have already taken root , habituate a post - emergent product or pull them by hired hand before treat the bed with Preen . Overall , it ’s an effective product that we extremely recommend .
Photo: Amazon
Get the Preen Garden weed grampus for flower beds atAmazon , Ace Hardware , orTarget .
Or, DIY Your Own Weed Killer
commercial-grade weed killers are relatively new . Home raiser have used rude methods of controlling unwanted smoke for many years , admit :
Some of the abovementioned options can be mixed with water and spray on unwanted dope to obliterate them . add together a duad of drops of smooth dish max to the mixture will help keep the answer on leave of absence longer and give natural weed killers a chance to make for .
Or, DIY Your Own Weed Killer for Flower Beds
Commercialweed killersare comparatively raw . Home growers have used natural methods of controlling undesirable dope for many years , let in :
Some of the abovementionednatural optionscan be mixed with urine and sprayed on unwanted weed to obliterate them . add together a couple of pearl of swimming dish liquid ecstasy to the mix will facilitate keep the solution on leaf longer and give natural weed killers a chance to puzzle out .
Jump to Our Top Picks
Before You Buy a Weed Killer
commercial-grade gage killers have inexorable warnings on their product labels : it ’s a encroachment of Federal law to use this product in a way inconsistent with its labeling . Many sens slayer for lawn and garden alike contain toxic chemicals that can harm humans , positron emission tomography , and the environment if not use correctly . Using these ware in a dependable , responsible mode is substantive .
As with all Bob Vila solutions , conservation and sustainability are our most important focus . This is particularly dead on target when it comes to growing flowers because honey bee visit brightly colorise heyday daily . Any chemicals bees pick up are behave back to their urtication , which can destroy an entire colony . We direct togive growers the toolsthey need to produce bountiful prime safely and responsibly . Shoppers will require to originate with the least toxic methods of locoweed control and prioritise solutions that will help ensure the health and longevity of the planet .
How We Tested the Best Weed Killers for Flower Beds
To discover the best weed killers for flower bottom , we test each product and scored them based on a detailed statute title . We valuate ease of software , weed - kill effectiveness , and overall value . We valuate the simmpleness of lotion by considering component like the spray nozzle ’s excogitation , ease of hand spreading , and the clearness of direction .
For our psychometric test , we applied the flower bed weed killers to designated section to value their effectuality . For post - emergent weed killers , we monitored Mary Jane die - off speed and thoroughness of weed removal over 2 weeks . For pre - emerging weed killer , we monitor the ware ’s effectiveness in prevent weeds from stock . In summation , we conceive the merchandise ’s overall note value by cipher its cost per unit , insurance coverage domain , and duration of effectiveness . Each product was scored on a scale of measurement of 1 to 5 .
Why We Didn’t Recommend Weed Killers With Glyphosate
We prioritize product without harmful chemicals like glyphosate . Glyphosate - found weed killer can contribute to environmental degradation by binding to soil particles , which reduces microbial diversity and fecundity . Additionally , they can accumulate in water body , negatively affecting aquatic lifetime and reducing overall biodiversity , especially in freshwater ecosystem . Other common weed - killer options includeRoundup , Spectracide , andOrtho GroundClear . However , due to environmental concerns and wellness risks associated with their chemical fixings , they do not meet our sustainability guidelines and are not recommended in our top weft .
What to Consider When Choosing a Weed Killer for Flower Beds
Selective vs. Nonselective
Weed killers come in two elemental types : selective and nonselective .
Pre-Emergent vs. Post-Emergent
This distinction refers to whether existing green goddess need to be destroyed or whether the gardener hopes to preclude them from taking root .
Contact vs. Systemic
Designed to kill all plants , nonselective weedkiller are also classified as either link or systemic . These terms do n’t always appear on product labels , though .
Natural vs. Chemical
chemic green goddess slayer are generally more dangerous to humans , animals , and the environment than natural varieties . alas , chemical pot killersare often also more effective than natural types , like salt or acetum . A natural herbicide , for example , may require two or more DOS to kill weeds compared to a synthetic one that contains glyphosate , which may only require one dose .
While some gardeners will DIY their own effective natural weed killer by creating a acetum , salinity , and dish liquid ecstasy solution ( as note above ) , a commercial product does volunteer grab - and - spray convenience .
However , no mourning band - pop merchandise — even a natural one — is whole harmless because inadvertent overspray may kill worthy plant . Plus , some all - rude products may irritate the cutis of man who are raw to the ingredients . While natural products are less harmful overall , it ’s imperative to carefully take after the diligence pedagogy for any weedkiller . The most environmentally well-disposed method acting of smoke removal is a manual one .
Photo: Amazon
Method of Application
software methods will vary based on the type of grass cause of death selected .
FAQs
blossom beds are at their most striking when they ’re full of beautiful blooms — not weed . gardener are always free to practice the time - observe tradition of hand weeding , but for those who ’d like a little aid , herbicide can aid . Those who are fresh to cultivate flowers are likely to have a few questions . Here are some answers .
A flower bed ca n’t be entirely weed - proof , but weeds can be repress by applying a pre - emerging herbicide to the bed after suitable flora are established but before weeds sneak in .
Unwanted weed contend for vital nutrient that ornamental plants necessitate to produce large , colorful blooms . Plus , a weed - detached flush bed greatly beautifies any thousand .
Photo: Amazon
A selective weed cause of death that targets just grass is one of the best style to stop grass intrusion without harm peak .
Only if the weed killer is a selective product design not to harm plants . If it ’s nonselective , it will shoot down good plants as well as weed .
Yes , and they ’re better for the environment . We always hint using natural weed killers before sample any chemical substance products .
Photo: Amazon
It varies . Natural weed orca are generally safer than chemical - ground gage killers , but always check the label to be sure .
Meet the Tester
With her green quarter round and hang for DIY , Debbie Wolfe has transformed her Georgia acreage into a plant haven . She ’s always on the watch for ready to hand garden tools to keep her green space looking its best !
Additional research provided by Glenda Taylor .
Our Best Advice for Beginner Gardeners
We ’ll serve you lay out up your first garden — whether that ’s a few Mary Jane on your patio , a raised bed , or an in - ground plot out back — and select the right plants for your land and part .
