Best Overall
Natural Elements Weed Killer
Runner-up
Mighty Mint Weed and Grass Killer
Best Fast-Acting
Natural Armor All-Natural Weed and Grass Killer
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It ’s understandable to reach for weed - bolt down product when ugly weeds and weed muscle their way into your 1000 and garden — but without pet - safe green goddess killers , your dearie can be at risk of exposure for exposure to harsh chemicals . Animals can occupy toxins through their mitt and skin , or they can eat plants that take in those chemicals . favorite - secure weed killers protect furred family members by eliminating the invading weeds without harmful ingredients . We test five of the top products and heavy explore the two other rule we think are deserving considering to help watch which stand out .
The best pet - friendly sens control products are unremarkably made with instinctive or constitutive sustainable ingredient , such as vinegar or concentrated salts . These herbicide destroy plant life by dehydration ( dry the folio ) or disrupt their growth . They ’re less probable to contaminate waterway , disturb instinctive habitat , degrade the soil , or otherwise harm the environment . Pet - dependable , eco - friendly weed killer can be an integral part oflawn careand are also less probable to affect human and wildlife health negatively .
Natural Elements Weed Killerrose to the top of the list for its easy coating and immediate ( and complete ) weed death . The product that made our upright pet - safe weed killers list are intemperate on weeds but gentle on any furry visitors to your yard , so have a facial expression .
Before You Buy a Pet-Safe Weed Killer
Some people choose to tryhomemade weed killersbefore doling out money for one . Before making a purchase , however , it ’s a good idea for shopper to make certain the intersection does n’t contain chemical known to harm pets , people , and the environment .
Look for natural weed sea wolf that target the skunk and grasses that need to be eliminate . Selective weed killers will put down only specific weeds or grasses and not other plant around them , making these a good selection for spotlight - putting to death .
Nonselective weed orca destroy any kind of plant or grass they come in contact with . They ’re better for larger region where they can be sprayed or where granules can be scattered freely without worry that they ’ll damage nearby victuals , flowers , turfgrasses , and other desirable plants .
Our Top Picks
Healthy lawn and liberal gardens take a lineament natural weed sea wolf or constitutive sens killer so people and pets can enjoy the outdoors without risk . record on to discover why these production are among the best brute - friendly weed killers .
principally comprised of commercial - grade vinegar and seawater , Natural Elements ’ green goddess killer is environmentally - friendly , contains no glyphosate , and banish broadleaf skunk and grasses effectively . Nontoxic and organic , this pot slayer can be sprayed on widow’s weeds until the leaves are wet , and the plants will commence give way within 24 hours . If the outdoor temperature is 80 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer , it may take less time to see resultant role . At lower temperature , weeds may take up to 5 days to die .
We apply this weed killer in the ( very ) early Spring in temperatures around 55 degrees Fahrenheit . We sprayed it on grass , dandelions , and generally small sens sprout in a gravel driveway . We used a nebuliser to apply the weed grampus , so it was simple and prompt . The sprayed weeds and grass yellow within 24 hours .
This formula from Natural Elements is nonselective , prediluted , and premixed . It ’s specially good on finger grass , mouse ear , dandelions , and thistle . To avoid harming Gunter Grass , it ’s authoritative for user to put on it cautiously to weeds embedded in lawns . This mathematical product is made in the U.S.
What our tester says : “ I expected the Natural Elements sess sea wolf to act upon well , but I was surprised by how quickly it need effect . The eatage and mourning band were yellow within a few hr , and they were browned within 24 hours . ”—Stacey L. Nash , Product Reviews tester and author
Get the Natural Elements pet - secure gage sea wolf atAmazon(1 - gallon ) orNatural Elements .
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Runner up
Comprised of essential oils and sodium lauryl sulfate , Mighty Mint ’s Weed & Grass Killer is plan to target broadleaf weeds and grasses . The lifelike ingredients are safe for favourite and tyke , and it ’s tight - acting . We used it in dry , 55 - degree Fahrenheit conditions , and the weeds and grass were dying noticeably within 24 hours .
We used the 128 - ounce bottle that amount with a sprayer . While the sprayer was easy to set up , it quickly sputter due to air bubbles . Nonetheless , it got the job done . For those without a freestanding spray unit , the included nebuliser will undoubtedly work . Still , those who already own a separate sprayer unit will belike be happier practice the Mighty Mint that way .
We could tell this pet - safe weedkiller contained of the essence petroleum as it smelled more like a light aura freshener than a weed killer . It was a pleasant odor that dissipate within a few hours . The ready - to - use formula made it even easier to expend . Some difficult weeds may call for a second applications programme , but we saw telling weed kill after only one .
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Get the Mighty Mint pet - secure sess killers atAmazon , Lowe’s , The Home Depot , orMighty Mint .
A good weed killer for pets , people , and the environment , Natural Armor ’s weed and locoweed slayer contains no glyphosate or other dangerous chemicals . And yet , the claim of dope and grass dying within 24 hour are true !
This nonpoisonous sess grampus can be used around flower bed , mulched areas , walkways , fence channel , pavers , cracks in driveways and pavement , and other expanse , though two applications may be needed on turgid weeds or weeds with resistive roots . It ’s also safe to use around fountainhead and water systems .
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Natural Armor is ready to practice and eliminates over 250 kinds of weeds and grasses . This nonselective , pet - safe grass killer hold constitutive ingredients and comes from a kinsperson - own and operate business .
We spray it on grass and small skunk on a dry day at 55 degrees Fahrenheit . While the include atomiser was n’t a lot of help , the product itself was great . We ’d probably skip the included nozzle and just use a sprayer alternatively .
Get the Natural Armor pet - safe weed killer atAmazonorNatural Armor .
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Best Bang for the Buck
Eco Garden Pro Organic Vinegar Weed Killer
Safe for pets and other animals , kids , fish , livestock , and bees , Eco Garden Pro ’s organic weed and grass slayer works on contact lens within 24 hr . It can be used to eliminate poison ivy , clover , moss , chickweed , thistle , crabgrass , dandelions , dollar weed , and other widow’s weeds and Gunter Grass .
We tested it in dry , moderate temperatures on grass and dandelion . Within 24 hours , there was detectable browning . It had a light vinegar odor ( which we find pleasant ) that spread out within a few time of day . In some areas , we used a light spray volume and heavy in others . The heavily sprayed areas conk out faster .
This constituent weed Orcinus orca ’s quick - to - use formula is 100 percentage inorganic phosphate - complimentary ; does not carry dicamba , glyphosate , or other toxic ingredients ; and will not harm groundwater . unregenerate locoweed that do n’t snuff it all or that are prone to grow back may require a repeat applications programme . Our program did not require a 2nd spray . Like other acetum weed killers , this one is nonselective and kill locoweed , ornamentals , and other plants on contact , so substance abuser will need to check that to apply it only to unwanted plants .
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
At $ .21 per snow leopard , this weed killer offers a good deal than many of the formulas on our list . Please note that individual savings may vary based on the substantial footage spray and whether repeat applications are ask .
What our quizzer say : “ locoweed did n’t tolerate a chance . The event ( brown , shriveled weeds and sens ) were evident within 24 hour , and the weeds did n’t come back . ”—Stacey L. Nash , Product Reviews tester and author
Get the Eco Garden Pro pet - good weed killer atAmazonandEco Living Solutions .
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Best for Small Spaces
Sunday Weed Warrior Grass and Weed Killer
Sold in atomiser bottles or Imperial gallon - size refills , Sunday Weed Warrior is a glyphosate - costless , ready - to - use weed and smoke cause of death . Formulated to run quick , it starts dehydrating and killing many green goddess and skunk within 20 transactions of program , admit algae , bluegrass , stinkweed , thistle , lambsquarters , lichen , crabgrass , dandelion , and more .
This nonselective , pet - safe pot killer also pop anything it touches , so it ’s important to avoid spraying it on turfgrasses or other desirable plant life . It can be used in crack in sidewalks and driveways without stain , and also around patios , gardens , bloom beds , sidewalks , flower beds , and mulch areas .
We tested the 32 - oz. spray bottleful in a crushed rock private road with stock grass and weeds . While the spray bottle is n’t hardheaded for tumid - area program , it was quite effective for spot - spraying weeds . Weed end took about 48 hours , but the weed and grass did die . A second diligence might be needed for with child , hard weeds .
Listed by OMRI ( the Organic Materials Review Institute ) and okay for organic gardening , Sunday Weed Warrior contains a potent Georgia home boy made from fatty acids that move out the waxy software that protects most leafy unripe vegetation . For best results , substance abuser can enforce it to target low , early - growth weeds less than 5 column inch in size and repetition if ask . When it comes to preventative use , this non-poisonous weed slayer is effective for about 21 days , but it should not be used in veg gardens .
Get the Sunday pet - safe weed killer atAmazon(2 - pack of 32 ounces),Lowe’s(1 gallon),Walmart(32 ounces ) , orSunday(2 - pack of 32 ounces ) .
More Great Options
While we did n’t prove the following product , we researched their fixings and weighed their reviews before determine they were on par with our top picking .
Honorable Mention
Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed and Grass Killer
Made from 20 pct acetic superman and ethanol distilled from corn get in the U.S. , the acetum in Green Gobbler is four times firm than even mesa vinegar and kills sess within 24 hours by desiccation ( drying them out ) . It comes in a concentrate , so a small bit goes a long way .
Free of glyphosate and other potentially toxic chemicals , it ’s a nontoxic sess killer that is also pet - friendly . Certified by OMRI , this constitutional weed Orcinus orca works efficiently on the most common weeds and grasses . It can be used on crabgrass , dandelions , white clover , crawl Charlie , oxalis , musk thistle , crabgrass , and broadleaf plantain . It ’s uncommitted as a quick - to - use 32 - ounce or a 1 - gallon container , and substance abuser can stockpile up on the 1 - gallon or 5 - gallon refill options also on offering . While it can be used around food crops and ornamental , it ’s nonselective , so any overspray will wipe out any flora it touches . Weeds with large , strong antecedent may need repetition applications .
Get Green Gobbler pet - dependable grass killer atAmazon(1 - gallon),The Home Depot , orWalmart .
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Also Consider
Just for Pets Weed Killer
Safe for pet and people , this eco - well-disposed dope killer whale made by Natural Armor contains no glyphosate and kill many weeds within 24 hours of coating . It ’s an organic weed killer that wo n’t harm bees ; dry quickly ; and can be used around shrubs and Tree , blossom beds , barns , butt , fencing crinkle , understructure , crushed rock field , walkways , paths , well and H2O systems , and more . It come in quick to use , so no premixing or diluting is required .
This U.S.-made nonselective weed killer is effective on blowball and trefoil , broadleaf grass , and grassy weed such as crabgrass . It ’s made from all - lifelike ingredients , let in acetum , Strategic Arms Limitation Talks , clove oil , and citric superman . Portions of each cut-rate sale are donated to animal shelters nationwide .
Get Just for Pets pet - safe weed killer atAmazon .
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Or, DIY Your Own Pet-Safe Weed Killer
Your hands are the best pet - good , natural weed killers if you may pull up the intact root system of weeds and grasses you do n’t want . crown : it ’s prosperous to do this after a soaking rain . If you preferweeding toolsto DIY gage killers , opt for aCobrahead weeder and cultivator hand creature , which is an ergonomically project mitt tool with a forged steel sword for digging , butt , and planting ; a standingFiskers four - chela weeder ; or choose one of thebest garden hoes .
saturated acetum can be used as a DIY weed cause of death . Whip up ahomemade natural weed killerby mixing a gallon of white vinegar with a cup of salinity and a tablespoon of melted dish easy lay . Spray it on a dry , cheery day and weeds should pall in about a week . Salt , sugar , bleaching agent , and bake tonic can also pop weeds more naturally . However , these DIY grass - kill ingredients can harm land , poison small mammals , or , if sugar is used , attract unwanted pests and wildlife .
Russell Taylor , frailty president ofLive Earth Products , a company located in Emery , Utah , that mine and manufactures ingredients used in a number of industries , including lawn upkeep product , say , “ It ’s important to note that high salinity mental object , which kills the green goddess , can stymie grass regrowth after skunk remotion . Consider drenching those dead spots with smooth humic acid to counter common salt damage and maintain a pet - well-disposed , spot - complimentary lawn . ” Pouring boil body of water on pot also works , although they ’ll regrow if the roots do n’t die . It ’s a good idea to have on shoe to protect your feet from splashes and handle the raging body of water carefully .
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Bob Mann counsel , “ When in doubt , hire a professional lawn caution company … Or if you settle to do it yourself : One , read the product label ; two , read the Cartesian product label ; and three ( you guessed it ) , read the merchandise recording label . Everything you need to cognise to safely use any pesticide is bear on the recording label . ”
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Chose and Tested the Best Pet-Safe Weed Killers
To find the unspoiled pet - dependable weed killers , we researched 12 products , which consisted of vetting their websites , reviews , and ratings . We then examine five of those products ourselves . We avoid product contain celluloid or toxic chemicals and centre on sustainable , natural , or organic choices . We consider the effectiveness of pet - friendly weed sea wolf , nontoxic weed killers , and homemade dope Orcinus orca for pet ; how long they take to work ; and how tenacious people and pets have to persist away from the treat areas .
What to Consider When Choosing a Pet-Safe Weed Killer
Look for sens killers label “ pet - safe ” that do n’t check rough chemical . Even if you utilise innate or constitutive weed killers , follow all directions to keep your pet safe . Check to see how foresighted to keep your pets aside from treat region , and do n’t salt away or leave any sort of weed killer within their reach . For a list of constitutive herbicides that are weigh toxic to brute , see theMerck Veterinary Manual . You may want to protect yourself by wear protective clothing and goggles when using vinegar - establish or other secure - smell weedkiller .
If a product does n’t specify when people and ducky can safely re - enter the cover domain , a rule of ovolo is to look 48 to 72 60 minutes — or until the atomizer is completely dry or engage ( some products take less time . ) We found that resolution vary depending on the weather , whether sens are young or fully settle down , and whether they ’re wet from rainfall or dew . Not all pet - safe pot killers are rainproof . The adept time to utilise mourning band killer is when skunk first seem , when rain is n’t expected , and on warm , dry , gay days .
Also , while you search for the correct normal , here ’s something to keep in mind : “ Labeling something as ‘ raw ’ or ‘ organic ’ does not tell apart you anything about the perniciousness of that picky sum , and you should n’t assume that it is good . In fact , the most toxic substance known to humanity , the Botulinum toxin , is 100 percent all - natural and organic , ” say Bob Mann , senior managing director of technological and regulatory social occasion at theNational Association of Landscape Professionals , locate in Fairfax , Virginia . He names envenom common ivy and mushroom as examples . “ An excellent ( and completely free ) source of info on all type of pesticides is theNational Pesticide Information Center , which is based at Oregon State University and fund by the EPA . They ’ll even hop on the phone with you to answer any dubiousness about various production applications . ”
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Ingredients
Most best-loved - safe green goddess killers contain organic or natural ingredients such as acetic dot , atomic number 19 , or sodium salts . Certainlow - toxicingredients recur in pet - secure weed - killer formulas . For example , the Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA ) says corn meal gluten , a by-product of milled Indian corn , is pet - safe , and it prevents weeds without being harmful to brute or people . Sea salt eliminates sess and green goddess and wo n’t harm pet or bee .
Selective vs. Nonselective
Selective weed cause of death are products that kill smoke but not desirable plants like ornamentals or turfgrasses . Nonselective dope killers ruin any kind of vegetation they touch , whether they ’re liquid sprays or granule applied to the soil . If you ’re seek to kill all the plants in a large area , you may want a nonselective weed killer . prefer a selective smoke killer if you ’re trying to obliterate belittled , weedy patches in a lawn or if you ’re ferment near suitable plant life . Be mindful of where the Cartesian product may wash onto or purport on the wind beyond the area you ’re treating and take forethought if necessary .
Application
Most pet - dependable weed killer come in as quick - to - use liquids , though some come in a concentrate . Some are sold with spraying attachments , and others are available as refill you could put in a sprayer you already have . Concentrated pet - good weed killer must be diluted before you spray them . melted mourning band killers can be used as pip - killer whale or spray over area of any size .
Weed killer whale are also available in granular shape . Many are safe for dearie directly after lotion and can prevent weeds from growing around established plants that are at least 3 inches marvelous . However , these will not kill mourning band that have already sprouted . For best termination , live weeds should be absent before lend oneself pre - emergent , granular dope killer . Weed grampus that come as granule should be applied to bare grunge or add to mulched surface area and mildly rake or water in .
FAQs
skunk and undesirable grass often burgeon forth up in lawns and gardens , robbing the want plant of much - need water , food , and room to spread their source . Some produce big enough to shade off the intentional plant and close up the sun . A weed grampus that is safe for pets and is made with constituent or natural ingredients can be an good , sustainable way to banish them , but there ’s a lot to have it off about unlike products . The following often ask questions may address any tarry fear .
Vinegar acts as an organic green goddess killer for lawns because it kills Mary Jane leaves ; however , those weeds may grow back from their roots . Make a unassailable root by contribute a cup of table salinity and a tablespoon of dishwashing scoop to a gallon of vinegar .
dry out time varies depend on the atmospheric condition , the mathematical product , and how heavily it ’s go for . A good principle of quarter round is to keep multitude and pets off treated areas for at least 48 to 72 hr unless the label enunciate differently .
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Get your dearie safely away and immediately call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888 - 426 - 4435 . Tell them which weed killer your darling take on , and have the recording label or original container handy .
Some are , but it depends on what you ’re point . Some necessitate repeat applications and take longer to work . Many gardener do n’t listen the trade - off to keep their pets safe .
maker of intersection with glyphosate typically advocate that ducky stay away until the spray dry . However , for safety , it ’s better to void the region for 48 to 72 hours .
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
weed is n’t a barren of prison term . root for new weeds when they ’re small and when the territory is moist to make it easier to pull them out by the root .
Both methods can be effective . Spray works well when you do n’t want to stir up the surrounding soil . fag often works better for large smoke , though it can leave golf hole .
Meet the Tester
Stacey L. Nash has researched , tested , and review product for BobVila for four years , focusing on habitation and garden products . She ’s passionate about research and hand - on testing to get hold the products that add rightful value to homeownership and everyday life . She lives on 12 hard wooded estate , where she and her kinfolk put home and outdoor products to the test while keep off bears and Felis concolor .
Additional research supply by Lynn Coulter .
Our Best Advice for Beginner Gardeners
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
We ’ll aid you set up your first garden — whether that ’s a few pots on your patio , a raised bed , or an in - earth plot out back — and select the ripe plants for your soil and region .
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
Photo: Stacey L. Nash for Bob Vila
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