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Getting the right dandelion killer is not easy.
The first step is being able to differentiate between a weed and a plant. A weed is any unwanted plant. It doesn’t matter the nutrition value of the plant as long as it is undesirable. It competes for resources with plants making them grow weaker.
By using the best dandelion killer, it is possible to get rid of them. However, knowing the best dandelion killer requires one to be fully informed.
I would like to highlight some factors to help you narrow down your research for the best dandelion killers!
Our Recommended Dandelion Killers:
| Image | Product | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns | 9.7 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Roundup For Lawns4 Ready to Use | 9.5 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | BioAdvanced 704125A All-in-One Lawn Weed & Crabgrass Killer | 9.1 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Natural Armor Weed and Grass Killer All-Natural | 8.8 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer | 8.6 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Just For Pets Weed Killer Spray (128 oz Gallon) | 8.2 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Ike’s Dandelion Destroyer | Lawn Weed Killer | 8 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Scotts 26003 Turf Builder Triple Action | 7.7 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready to Spray | 7.4 | Check Price on Amazon |
 | Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed | 7.2 | Check Price on Amazon |
Last update on 21st March 2023 / Affiliate Links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How to Get Rid of Dandelion Roots for Good?
Dandelions are usually yellow in color and have a head that contains seeds. When the dandelion’s flower is broken, it releases white fluffy particles known as a pappus. The leaves of the plant grow close to each other, unlike other plants whose leaves spread out and away from the stem.
Everyone wants to see their garden and lawns neat and clean. Some weeds might not pose a threat but they still need to be removed since they make the landscape unattractive. It is important to realize that different people have diverse reasons for removing weeds.
Getting rid of weeds is a continuous process since they grow back progressively. This means that you will need to apply the weed treatment every year before the weed germinates and starts growing.
The best way to prevent them from growing back is by getting rid of the root system. This can be achieved by aggressively removing the weed from its root. It will not grow back when it does not have access to water and sunlight. However, it is important to note that some of the weeds might still grow back after a few weeks or months.
Do Dandelion Killers work?
Dandelion killers can be acquired from a local drugstore. It depends on what kind of weed one is trying to get rid of and how big of an infestation they have. A multi-purpose weed killer will kill more than one type of weed. Some products even contain chemicals that are only meant for specific weeds.
Some weed killers are not safe to use around children, pets, fruits, or vegetables. It must be mentioned that certain products can take up to a few weeks to start showing results so patience is key.
Most of the time, these types of weed killers do not work due to their low concentration level when compared to commercial-grade weed killers. In addition, there are chemicals in them that have been linked to causing cancer so it is important to be extra careful when using them.
How Should You Use Dandelion Killers?
Ideally, you should apply dandelion killer by using a spray bottle.
It is important to note that weeds are usually found at places where they are not easily accessible. This is where spray bottles come in handy. It allows the user to apply weed killer without having to bend or kneel down. One can even use it from a standing position which makes it easier and more convenient to use.
Types of Dandelion Killers
There are three major types of weed killers.
The first type is known as non-selective herbicide which will kill any plant it comes in contact with. The second type is a selective herbicide which kills specific weeds without killing other plants around it.
The third type is known as organic weed killer which is made from natural sources and is considered to be safe to use around kids and pets. Some of the most common types of organic weed killers include cinnamon oil, vinegar, and boiling water.
It takes a few days or weeks before weeds start showing signs of dying. Aggressive removal of weeds should also be done because this will reduce their chances of growing back again.
Granular vs. Spray Herbicide
Granular is considered to be an effective way of treating weeds that can be seen by humans such as crabgrass and dandelions.
Granular dandelion killers usually take up to 3 months before the dandelions die. It may even take as long as 6 months for all of them to be killed. On the other hand, spray weed killers can be used more than once on a yearly basis and takes approximately 1-4 weeks to show results.
Things to Consider When Looking for the Best Dandelion Killers
There are many things one should consider when choosing a dandelion killer. In order to find the best weed killer, read reviews and ask questions before purchasing it.
Chemical or Organic
Chemical weed killers are usually liquids that can be poured into a spray bottle and placed around the house or garden before weeds start growing. They require repeated application every 2-3 weeks before it starts killing dandelions.
Organic weed killers are usually made from natural sources. They are used by mixing them with water and spraying it onto the weeds in the garden or lawn. Organics usually take about 1-4 weeks before they start working.
Many people consider organic weed killers to be safer than chemical ones because it is made from natural sources. However, this may not be the case because some chemicals are actually natural.
Most importantly, one should always double-check if their children or pets can get in contact with them without any negative side effects. If there is skin contact, wash the area with soap and water immediately.
Selective vs. Nonselective Weed Killers
Selective weed killers are usually used for ornamental purposes while nonselective herbicides are best in killing dandelions. Selective weed killers can be used around children and pets without worrying about negative effects.
It is also important to note that nonselective weed killers will kill the dandelions as well as other surrounding weeds and grasses, which can be quite messy for those who want a clean lawn. Nonselective herbicides should only be used by those with ample experience in killing weeds because one might end up killing too much.
Liquid or Granular
Liquid weed killers usually come in a bottle with a nozzle where they can be sprayed onto surrounding weeds to kill them. They are best used if the lawn is not cluttered with other plants. Spray weed killers are the most popular because they are extremely effective in killing weeds. It is not necessary to wait until weeds appear on one’s lawn or garden. One can simply spray them directly onto surrounding areas where it is needed.
Granule weed killers may take a long time before they start killing dandelions. They are best spread around the lawn or garden before weeds start to grow. According to many users, granule weed killers are best placed in areas where there is little sunlight.
Potency
A weed killer’s potency usually depends on its concentration. Most brands available in the market are concentrated at 5-10%. The remaining 90-95% of the bottle is composed of water or other chemicals that aid in killing weeds.
Cheaper weed killers usually have lower concentrations while more expensive ones are normally concentrated at 5%. Concentrated weed killers are best used when there is a large area to be covered or when one wants immediate results. On the other hand, diluted weed killers will take a long time before killing dandelions because they require about 2-3 weeks before they take effect.
Manufacturers who offer concentrated weed killers normally let the consumer choose the concentration. If one wants an extra-strong concentration, then they can ask for a higher percentage of chemical in it. However, diluted weed killers are usually cheaper because not all chemicals have been added to them yet.
Longevity
A diluted weed killer may only last up to 2-3 weeks before it becomes useless, while a concentrated one can last for months or even years depending on how strong it is and where it has been placed.
Durable weed killers may cost more but they are worth trying because one can get their money back through lower costs on herbicides.
If using a weed killer with low durability, then one will have to keep spraying their lawn or garden often. However, if one uses a weed killer with high quality, then they can expect a longer time before weeds start sprouting again. They may also save money on herbicides because cheaper ones might have less durability.
Climatic Conditions
Most weed killers need about 2-3 weeks to take effect. If one does not see results within this time, then there is no reason for them to continue applying the herbicide because they will most likely fail in killing dandelions.
Weed killers with certain chemicals tend to lose their potency when subjected to extreme heat or cold. For instance, acetochlor is a popular chemical used in weed killers but it tends to lose its effectiveness as the temperature starts dropping below 15 degrees Celsius.
Drought and rain also have an effect on weed killers. When there is less rain, weeds may start growing again. In addition, some chemicals may not be as effective during a drought because they require a certain amount of water to release their full potential.
If one is unable to apply herbicides during the rainy season or when it gets too hot, then the weed killer may not work as well.
Safety
Some chemicals may require special permits or licenses before they can be used on weeds. Whether one’s intended weed killer requires a license or not, it is better for them to know in advance so they will have an idea where to buy the chemicals if necessary.
However, there are still some precautions that one should take prior to spraying anywhere they want. If children have access to areas where weed killers have been applied, then it is best for them not to be there until the herbicide has been completely absorbed by the soil.
People with health conditions should stay away from weed killers as well. Pregnant women and those with respiratory problems or weak immune systems should not be around any chemicals that have to do with weed killing. People who plan on using herbicide should wear protective gear such as gloves, boots, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and eyewear.
When using weed killers, do not go overboard on them. Do not use too much because it may have negative effects on the environment. In addition, one should not have to apply herbicides too much or too often.
