The Best Weed Killers for Flower Beds of 2024, Tested
Hello, my friend, hello again; today we come together to talk about The Best Weed Killers for Flower Beds of 2024, Tested and hope the blog can help you.
Flowers and ornamentals grow better in a weed-free environment. Find out how to rid a garden of weeds in an environmentally safe manner.
Weeds spread rapidly across gardens and crowd out desirable plants, but finding a suitable weed killer for flower beds can be a challenge. We recently tested eight weed killers from reputable brands, big and small, that do not contain chemicals that harm the soil and pose health risks to people, animals, or insects when used appropriately. The best weed killers for flower beds are safe, sustainable, and effectively eradicate unwanted grasses and weeds.
Our favorite nontoxic weed killer is the Espoma Organic Weed Preventer Plus Lawn Food, thanks to its natural composition, which is safe to handle, won’t harm wildlife or soil, and is very effective. We considered all the factors shoppers will want to consider before buying these products and listed our top picks for the best weed killer. Keep reading to learn what to look for when shopping for the best weed killers for flower beds and why the following picks are among the options available.
- BEST OVERALL: Espoma Organic Weed Preventer Plus Lawn Food
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Harris 20% Vinegar Weed Killer
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR PERENNIAL BEDS: Bonide Captain Jack’s Deadweed Brew Concentrate
↓ Jump to Review - BEST ALL-NATURAL: Natural Armor All-Natural Weed & Grass Killer
↓ Jump to Review - BEST SHAKER JUG: Preen Natural Vegetable Garden Weed Preventer
↓ Jump to Review - SAFEST FOR PETS: Just For Pets Pet-Safe Weed Killer
↓ Jump to Review - BEST CHEMICAL-FREE: Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed & Grass Killer
↓ Jump to Review - BEST SYNTHETIC OPTION: Preen Garden Weed Preventer
↓ Jump to Review
Before You Buy a Weed Killer
Commercial weed killers have stern warnings on their product labels: it’s a violation of Federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling. Many weed killers for lawns and gardens alike contain toxic chemicals that can harm humans, pets, and the environment if not applied correctly. Using these products in a safe, responsible manner is essential.
As with all Bob Vila solutions, conservation and sustainability are our most important focus. This is especially true when it comes to growing flowers because honey bees visit brightly colored blossoms daily. Any chemicals bees pick up are carried back to their hives, which can destroy an entire colony. We aim to give growers the tools they need to produce bountiful blooms safely and responsibly. Shoppers will want to start with the least toxic methods of weed control and prioritize solutions that will help ensure the health and longevity of the planet.
How We Tested the Best Weed Killers for Flower Beds
To find the best weed killers for flower beds, we tested each product and scored them based on a detailed rubric. We measured ease of application, weed-killing effectiveness, and overall value. We evaluated the simplicity of application by considering factors like the spray nozzle’s design, ease of hand spreading, and the clarity of instructions.
For our tests, we applied the flower bed weed killers to designated sections to measure their effectiveness. For post-emergent weed killers, we monitored weed die-off speed and thoroughness of weed removal over 2 weeks. For pre-emergent weed killers, we monitored the product’s effectiveness in preventing weeds from sprouting. In addition, we considered the product’s overall value by calculating its cost per unit, coverage area, and duration of effectiveness. Each product was scored on a scale of 1 to 5.
| Testing Stats | |
| Products tested: | 8 |
| Hours spent testing: | 1 hour hands on, 2 weeks observation |
| Tests performed: | 3 |
| Price range: | $12 to $45 |
Our Top Picks
In compiling this list, we looked for the best weed killer for flower beds that won’t kill flowers. However, due to the nonselective nature of most formulas, we adjusted our criteria to emphasize products that are environmentally safe, sustainable, and easy to use.
Best Overall
Espoma Organic Weed Preventer, 25 Pounds CGP25
Photo: Ace Hardware
Our Ratings: Application 5/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Form: Granular
- Type: Pre-emergent
- Active ingredient: Corn gluten meal
What We Like
- Offers an organic alternative to chemical weed preventers
- Provides organic nitrogen
- Nontoxic, making it safe for households with pets and children
What We Don’t Like
- Attracts wildlife, especially squirrels and rodents
Home gardeners and landscapers who have planted their flower beds and want to prevent new weeds may be interested in the Espoma Organic weed preventer. This nonselective granular formula is made from 100 percent corn gluten, often used as a natural pre-emergent herbicide and one of the best weed killers that won’t kill grass.
Espoma Organic weed killer is a top choice because it is effective, easy to use, and safe for use around children and pets. Timing is crucial when using a pre-emergent. This product has corn gluten meal as its active ingredient, inhibiting the root development of sprouting weed seeds. This reduces the emergence of new weeds. It must be applied at specific times of the year—specifically before weed seeds germinate, typically early in the spring and again in the fall, to maximize its effectiveness to kill weeds, not grass. We applied it to our flower beds in the spring before the summer weeds could take hold. We also used it with decorative mulch, sprinkling the corn gluten over the soil in the flower bed before adding the mulch on top. The result was exactly what we wanted—no weeds in our flower beds when the weather warmed up.
Although this organic product is labeled a lawn weed killer, it will function the same way in a flower bed by helping prevent weed seeds from sprouting. However, it won’t kill established weeds, so those must be removed before using this organic product. Additionally, as its primary ingredient is corn gluten, it may attract squirrels and rodents. Any unused preventer must be stored in a rigid plastic container. Even though we encountered a few pests looking for food, the benefits of this reliable product make it all worthwhile.
Get the Espoma Organic weed killer for flower beds at Ace Hardware or True Value.
Best Bang for the Buck
Harris 20% Vinegar Weed and Grass Killer
Photo: The Home Depot
Our Ratings: Application 5/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Form: Liquid
- Type: Nonselective
- Active ingredient: Acetic acid (main component of vinegar)
What We Like
- Comes ready to use
- Effective at killing young weeds before they establish deeper root systems
- Effective for clearing large areas with diverse weed types
What We Don’t Like
- Less effective on established weeds with hearty roots
To banish weeds in and around flower beds in an economically—and ecologically—friendly way, shoppers will want to consider Harris 20% vinegar weed and grass Killer. It features concentrated acetic acid (vinegar) as its active ingredient. This affordable weed killer comes in a 32-ounce spray bottle, allowing users to apply the product directly on the offending weeds, making it our pick for one of the best weed killer sprays.
During our testing, the Harris weed and grass killer proved its effectiveness, particularly against young weeds. While it may require a little patience, it’s worth the wait. This non-instant solution works over a few days, making it most effective at killing young weeds before they establish deeper root systems. Apply it to weeds that have recently sprouted and are vulnerable for best results. It’s not super effective at killing established weeds. However, this pick is the best weed spray we tried and is perfect for quickly clearing a flower bed of young weeds before planting your flowers.
This is a nonselective weed killer, meaning it can kill or damage any plant it comes into contact with, including your desirable flowers. If necessary, consider shielding those pretty posies with plastic film during application, removing the plastic after the solution has dried. Although it is considered safe, wearing protective clothing and something to shield your eyes is advisable. Vinegar is corrosive and can cause eye damage and skin irritation. However, if used appropriately, the Harris weed and grass Killer is an effective spray weed killer to keep in your gardening arsenal.
Get the Harris weed killer for flower beds at The Home Depot or Harris.
Best for Perennial Beds
Bonide Captain Jack’s Deadweed Brew Concentrate
Photo: Amazon
Our Ratings: Application 4/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- Form: Spray
- Type: Nonselective
- Active ingredients: Caprylic and capric acid
What We Like
- Safe for use with metal sprayers, as it does not cause corrosion or damage
- Quickly causes the dieback of both annual and perennial weeds
- Concentrated formula can be diluted to make up to 32 gallons
What We Don’t Like
- May require multiple applications for effective long-term control
The active ingredient of Captain Jack’s Deadweed Brew concentrate by Bonide is capric acid, a saturated fat derived from coconut and palm kernel oils that kills broadleaf and grassy weeds by drying out the foliage. Available in a quart-size package with a dedicated measuring cup, this concentrate can make up to 8 gallons of spray-on contact weed killer when mixed with water.
Captain Jack’s concentrate kills several weeds over large areas without noxious odors. 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 found that Captain Jack’s effectively eliminated weeds in our flower bed. The concentrate is easy to mix and apply, making the application straightforward without any complications. You just need to follow the mixing instructions accurately. Once diluted, it’s ready to use and coats the leaves evenly, providing good coverage. It worked impressively on newly emerged weeds such as dandelion and clover, showing visible results within hours. However, its effectiveness on established weeds with deeper roots can be limited, requiring repeated applications. Overall, it’s a reliable product that delivers on its promises, provided you handle it carefully due to its nonselective nature—it will kill your flowers if not correctly applied.
Get the Bonide weed killer for flower beds at Amazon.
Best All-Natural
Natural Armor All-Natural Weed & Grass Killer
Photo: Amazon
Our Ratings: Application 4/5; Effectiveness 4/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Form: Ready-to-use liquid
- Type: Nonselective
- Active ingredients: Sodium chloride and citric acid
What We Like
- Offers a safer alternative to chemical herbicides
- Lacks glyphosate, diminishing the risk of toxicity and environmental pollution
- Applicable in diverse settings such as gardens, driveways, and along fences
What We Don’t Like
- Acts slower than chemical alternatives due to its natural composition
Natural Armor weed and grass killer is completely free from glyphosate and other harsh chemicals, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more eco-friendly approach. Its ability to target over 250 types of weeds and grasses means it’s not only effective but also incredibly powerful despite its natural formulation.
The weed killer features active ingredients sodium chloride and citric acid to kill weeds effectively. During testing, we found that it easily killed younger weeds but needed repeated applications to destroy established weeds. It acts quickly, showing visible results fast, which is always satisfying when trying to keep your garden looking its best. The weed killer is a concentrate, so you must mix it before use.
Overall, we recommend Natural Armor to any gardener looking for a reliable, natural solution to weed control. Its plant-safe formulation means you don’t have to worry about harming pollinators or wildlife while tackling unwanted weeds. However, it’s important to note that it’s a nonselective weed killer, so careful application is necessary when used around desirable plants.
Get the Natural Armor weed killer for flower beds at Amazon or Natural Armor.
Best Shaker Jug
Preen Natural Vegetable Garden Weed Preventer
Photo: Amazon
Our Ratings: Application 5/5; Effectiveness 5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Form: Granular
- Type: Nonselective
- Active ingredient: Corn gluten meal
What We Like
- Safe to use around established vegetables, herbs, and fruit
- Easy-to-apply shaker lid
- Lasts up to 3 months
What We Don’t Like
- Won’t kill existing weeds
- Can attract squirrels and other rodents
Like all Preen weed preventers, this pre-emergent product stops weed seeds from sprouting, but this one is entirely natural. It contains only corn gluten, which is known for preventing seed germination. This Preen product can be used in flower beds and around other types of plants—including fruits and vegetables.
This natural product comes in granular form and is easy to apply with a shaker lid for fuss-free, uniform application. A single application will keep weed seeds from sprouting for 6 weeks. It can be used on bare soil or with mulch, such as shredded bark or pea gravel. Like the Espoma organic weed preventer, this pre-emergent effectively stops all seeds from sprouting. Seeds of desirable plants will only grow if sown in soil treated with corn gluten once the granules biodegrade to the extent that they no longer act as a barrier to seed germination.
In our test, we applied it to our vegetable garden before adding transplant seedlings. Our plants were fine, and new weeds did not sprout. Spreading it is a cinch since the corn gluten meal is pelletized. No special equipment is needed—just open and shake. However, since it is a corn gluten meal, it does attract squirrels and other rodents.
Get the Preen Natural weed killer for flower beds at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., or The Home Depot.
Safest for Pets
Just For Pets Pet-Safe Weed Killer
Photo: Amazon