Monkey grass, also known as liriope or lilyturf, is a popular ornamental ground cover valued for its lush, grass-like foliage and low-maintenance nature. However, weeds can quickly invade monkey grass beds, detracting from their beauty and competing for nutrients and water. Selecting the best weed killer for monkey grass requires understanding selective herbicide chemistry to eliminate unwanted weeds without damaging your desirable liriope plants.
Weed control in monkey grass presents unique challenges because liriope is a monocot plant with similar characteristics to many grassy weeds. Additionally, monkey grass spreads through underground rhizomes, making it susceptible to systemic herbicides that can translocate through the root system. Therefore, careful product selection and application timing are essential for safe, effective weed management.
Horticultural experts recommend using selective post-emergent herbicides specifically formulated for use in liriope and other ornamental monocots, combined with pre-emergent products for season-long weed prevention. Proper identification of weed species, whether grassy or broadleaf, is crucial for selecting the most effective control products.
In this guide, we examine the top 10 best weed killers for monkey grass, evaluating active ingredients, selectivity, application timing, and overall effectiveness to help you maintain beautiful, weed-free liriope beds.
10 Best Weed Killer For Monkey Grass
1. Image Kills Nutsedge – Best selective weed killer for monkey grass with nutsedge
Image Kills Nutsedge is the best selective weed killer for monkey grass with nutsedge and other difficult weeds, featuring sulfentrazone as the active ingredient that targets sedges and broadleaf weeds while leaving liriope unharmed. The formulation is absorbed through both foliage and roots, providing comprehensive control of nutsedge and other problematic weeds that invade monkey grass beds. Additionally, Image provides visible results within 1-2 weeks and can be applied safely over the top of liriope.
- For use on Bermudagrass, Zoysiagrass, St Augustinegrass, and other listed grasses"
- Kills really tough, hard-to-kill weeds in lawns including dandelion, dollar weed, crabgrass and others listed
The selective chemistry makes Image ideal for controlling nutsedge, wild garlic, and other difficult weeds that are not controlled by standard grass herbicides. Consequently, monkey grass beds can be restored to their pristine appearance without damage to desirable plants. Moreover, Image also controls annual and perennial broadleaf weeds, providing broad-spectrum weed management.
Image Kills Nutsedge is available as a ready-to-use spray and a concentrated formula for larger applications. The product is labeled for use in liriope and other ornamental ground covers. Therefore, this product is the preferred choice for monkey grass owners dealing with nutsedge infestations.
Pros
- Selective for liriope
- Controls nutsedge
- Broadleaf weed control
- Foliar and root absorption
- Visible results quickly
- Ready-to-use option
- Easy application
Cons
- Slower action on some weeds
- May require repeat application
- Not for grassy weeds
2. Fusilade II (Fluazifop-P-Butyl) – Best grass-selective weed killer for monkey grass
Fusilade II is the best grass-selective weed killer for monkey grass, featuring fluazifop-P-butyl as the active ingredient that targets annual and perennial grassy weeds while completely safe for liriope. The systemic herbicide is absorbed by weed foliage and translocates to roots and growing points, providing complete control of unwanted grasses that invade monkey grass beds. Additionally, Fusilade II is highly selective for grasses and will not harm liriope or other broadleaf ornamental plants.
- BROAD-SPECTRUM WEED ACTION: Fusilade herbicide weed killer targets perennial and annual grass weeds in various settings. Safe for landscapes, nurseries, and sports fields, it controls weeds without harming ornamentals, ensuring a clean appearance
- POTENT INGREDIENTS, SUPERIOR RESULTS: Featuring 24.5% Fluazifop-P-butyl, this herbicide concentrate delivers targeted control of grass weeds. The 75.5% of other ingredients ensure coverage and performance in diverse turf and ornamental settings
The selective nature of Fusilade II makes it invaluable for controlling bermudagrass, crabgrass, quackgrass, and other invasive grasses that compete with monkey grass. Consequently, liriope beds can be kept free of grassy weeds without damaging the desirable ground cover. Moreover, Fusilade II provides visible results within 7-14 days with complete control of treated grasses.
Fusilade II is available as a concentrated liquid that is mixed with water for spray application. The product is labeled for use in ornamental plantings including liriope and other lilies. Therefore, this herbicide delivers exceptional grass-selective weed control for monkey grass beds.
Pros
- Grass-selective
- Safe for liriope
- Systemic activity
- Controls tough grasses
- Complete kill
- Concentrated formula
- Professional quality
Cons
- No broadleaf control
- Requires mixing
- Higher cost
3. Over-The-Top II (Sethoxydim) – Best grass killer for monkey grass beds
Over-The-Top II is the best grass killer for monkey grass beds, featuring sethoxydim as the active ingredient that provides selective post-emergent control of annual and perennial grasses without harming liriope. The systemic herbicide is absorbed through weed foliage and moves throughout the plant, killing grasses including crabgrass, foxtail, and other invasive species. Additionally, Over-The-Top II is specifically formulated for use over the top of ornamental grasses and ground covers including monkey grass.
The product name indicates its primary benefit: application directly over desirable plants to control emerging grasses. Consequently, Over-The-Top II simplifies weed control in liriope beds by allowing broadcast application without worry about damaging the ground cover. Moreover, the product provides effective control of most common grassy weeds that plague monkey grass.
Over-The-Top II is available in a convenient concentrated formulation that is compatible with standard spray equipment. The product is labeled for use in residential and commercial ornamental plantings. Thus, this herbicide provides straightforward grass control for monkey grass beds.
Pros
- Safe for liriope
- Broadcast application
- Controls annual grasses
- Systemic activity
- Easy to mix
- Affordable
- Widely available
Cons
- No broadleaf control
- Slower acting
- May require repeat
4. Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D Weed Killer – Best broadleaf weed killer for monkey grass
Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D Weed Killer is the best broadleaf weed killer for monkey grass, featuring 2,4-D as the active ingredient that effectively controls a wide range of broadleaf weeds without harming liriope. The systemic hormone-type herbicide is absorbed through weed foliage and translocates throughout the plant, providing complete control of dandelions, clover, plantain, and other broadleaf weeds. Additionally, 2,4-D has been used safely in liriope for decades when applied according to label directions.
The broad-spectrum activity makes 2,4-D the standard for controlling broadleaf weeds in monkey grass and other ornamental monocots. Consequently, liriope beds can be kept free of invasive broadleaf species with a single product. Moreover, Southern Ag Amine formulation provides excellent control with minimal odor and easy mixing.
Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D is available in a concentrated liquid that is mixed with water and applied as a spray. The product is labeled for use in lawns, ornamental beds, and ground covers including liriope. Thus, this herbicide delivers essential broadleaf weed control for monkey grass beds.
Pros
- Broadleaf-selective
- Safe for liriope
- Systemic activity
- Controls tough weeds
- Affordable
- Proven performance
- Easy mixing
Cons
- No grass control
- Volatility concerns
- Temperature sensitive
5. Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer – Best combination weed killer for monkey grass
Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Plus Crabgrass Killer is the best combination weed killer for monkey grass, featuring a blend of 2,4-D, dicamba, and MCPP for comprehensive broadleaf and crabgrass control. The three-way herbicide formulation provides broad-spectrum weed control while remaining safe for use in liriope beds. Additionally, the product includes crabgrass control, targeting the most common grassy weed problem in monkey grass beds.
The combination formula simplifies weed management by controlling both broadleaf weeds and crabgrass with a single application. Consequently, monkey grass owners can address multiple weed problems without using separate products. Moreover, the ready-to-use formulation eliminates mixing and measuring for convenient application.
Spectracide Weed Stop is available in ready-to-use spray bottles and hose-end sprayer formulations for easy application. The product is labeled for use in established lawns and ornamental ground covers. Therefore, this herbicide provides convenient combination weed control for monkey grass.
Pros
- Combination formula
- Broadleaf and grass control
- Ready-to-use option
- Easy application
- Affordable
- Widely available
- Quick results
Cons
- May not kill all grasses
- Not for sedges
- Lower concentration
6. Select 2 EC (Clethodim) – Best selective grass herbicide for monkey grass
Select 2 EC is the best selective grass herbicide for monkey grass, featuring clethodim as the active ingredient that provides exceptional control of annual and perennial grasses with no injury to liriope. The systemic herbicide is absorbed through foliage and translocates to growing points, providing complete control of grasses including bermudagrass, crabgrass, and foxtail. Additionally, Select 2 EC is highly effective against grass weeds that have become resistant to other herbicides.
The advanced chemistry of clethodim provides superior control of tough grasses in ornamental plantings. Consequently, Select 2 EC is preferred by professional landscapers for monkey grass weed control. Moreover, the product provides visible results within 7-10 days and complete control within 2-3 weeks.
Select 2 EC is available in a concentrated formulation that is cost-effective for larger applications. The product is labeled for use in liriope and other ornamental monocots. Thus, this herbicide delivers professional-grade grass control for monkey grass beds.
Pros
- High grass selectivity
- Safe for liriope
- Controls resistant grasses
- Systemic activity
- Professional quality
- Cost-effective concentrate
- Reliable performance
Cons
- No broadleaf control
- Requires surfactant
- Premium price
7. Bayer Advanced Southern Weed Killer For Lawns – Best ready-to-use weed killer for monkey grass
Bayer Advanced Southern Weed Killer For Lawns is the best ready-to-use weed killer for monkey grass, featuring a combination of 2,4-D, dicamba, and MCPP in a convenient spray formulation. The broad-spectrum product controls over 200 broadleaf weeds and crabgrass while being safe for liriope when applied as directed. Additionally, the ready-to-use spray eliminates the need for mixing, measuring, and special equipment.
The Southern formula is specifically designed for warm-season grasses and ground covers, making it ideal for monkey grass in southern gardens. Consequently, this product is widely available and familiar to most homeowners. Moreover, the sprayer design allows for targeted application directly to weeds without excessive overspray.
Bayer Advanced Southern Weed Killer is available in ready-to-use spray bottles with adjustable spray patterns. The product is labeled for use in lawns and ornamental plantings, including liriope. Thus, this product provides convenient, effective weed control for monkey grass.
Pros
- Ready-to-use
- No mixing required
- Broad-spectrum control
- Southern formula
- Convenient sprayer
- Affordable
- Widely available
Cons
- Lower concentration
- Smaller coverage area
- May require multiple bottles
8. Sedgehammer (Halosulfuron-Methyl) – Best nutsedge killer for monkey grass
Sedgehammer is the best nutsedge killer for monkey grass, featuring halosulfuron-methyl as the active ingredient that provides exceptional control of yellow and purple nutsedge without harming liriope. The selective herbicide is absorbed through both foliage and roots, providing complete control of nutsedge that traditional weed killers cannot manage. Additionally, Sedgehammer is safe for use around desirable ornamental plants including monkey grass.
The specialized chemistry makes Sedgehammer the go-to product for nutsedge infestations in liriope beds. Consequently, homeowners dealing with this persistent weed can achieve effective control without damaging their monkey grass. Moreover, Sedgehammer is effective against other sedges and some broadleaf weeds, expanding its usefulness.
Sedgehammer is available in convenient water-soluble packets for easy mixing and application. The product is labeled for use in ornamental plantings including liriope, daylilies, and other lilies. Thus, this herbicide provides targeted nutsedge control for monkey grass beds.
Pros
- Nutsedge selective
- Safe for liriope
- Root and foliar activity
- Water-soluble packets
- Complete control
- Professional quality
- Easy to use
Cons
- Higher cost
- Slower acting
- Narrow spectrum
9. Roundup For Lawns (No Glyphosate) – Best safe weed killer for monkey grass
Roundup For Lawns (No Glyphosate) is the best safe weed killer for monkey grass, featuring a specialty formulation that controls weeds without harming desirable ground covers. The product contains a combination of selective herbicides that target broadleaf weeds and crabgrass while being safe for liriope. Additionally, this formulation does not contain glyphosate, making it safe for use in ornamental plantings where glyphosate would cause damage.
The non-glyphosate formula provides peace of mind for monkey grass owners concerned about accidentally damaging their liriope. Consequently, this product is ideal for homeowners who want effective weed control without risk to their ornamental plants. Moreover, the product controls a wide range of weeds common in southern landscapes.
Roundup For Lawns is available in ready-to-use spray bottles and hose-end sprayer formulations. The product is labeled for use in established lawns and ornamental ground covers. Therefore, this herbicide delivers safe, effective weed control for monkey grass.
Pros
- No glyphosate
- Safe for liriope
- Broad-spectrum control
- Ready-to-use option
- Widely available
- Easy application
- Trusted brand
Cons
- Limited coverage per bottle
- May not kill all weeds
- Requires repeat applications
10. Dismiss (Sulfentrazone) – Best broad-spectrum weed killer for monkey grass
Dismiss is the best broad-spectrum weed killer for monkey grass, featuring sulfentrazone as the active ingredient that provides comprehensive control of broadleaf weeds, sedges, and some grasses with safety for liriope. The advanced herbicide is absorbed through both foliage and roots, providing rapid visual results and complete weed control. Additionally, Dismiss has pre-emergent activity that provides residual weed prevention in addition to post-emergent control.
- Formulated to help achieve faster visible sedge control
- Penetrates the soil and helps to control sedge tubers to prevent future outbreaks
The broad-spectrum activity and residual action make Dismiss valuable for comprehensive weed management in monkey grass beds. Consequently, one application can both eliminate existing weeds and prevent new ones from germinating. Moreover, Dismiss is effective in various soil types and weather conditions.
Dismiss is available in concentrated liquid formulations for professional and commercial use. The product is labeled for use in ornamental plantings including liriope. Thus, this herbicide delivers comprehensive, long-lasting weed control for monkey grass.
Pros
- Broad-spectrum control
- Pre and post-emergent
- Safe for liriope
- Rapid results
- Residual activity
- Professional quality
- Versatile application
Cons
- Premium pricing
- Professional use only
- Requires careful mixing
7 Essential Tips For Weed Control In Monkey Grass
- Identify weeds correctly: Determine whether weeds are grassy, broadleaf, or sedges to select the most effective selective herbicide for your specific weed problem in monkey grass.
- Apply at the right time: Apply post-emergent herbicides when weeds are actively growing and temperatures are between 60-85°F for optimal absorption and effectiveness without stressing liriope.
- Use proper application techniques: Apply herbicides with a sprayer on calm days to avoid drift onto desirable plants. Spot treat where possible to minimize chemical use and protect monkey grass.
- Incorporate pre-emergent herbicides: Apply pre-emergent products in early spring before weed seeds germinate to prevent weed establishment in monkey grass beds season-long.
- Maintain healthy monkey grass: Healthy, dense liriope naturally suppresses weeds through competition. Maintain proper watering, fertilization, and division to keep monkey grass vigorous.
- Consider mechanical removal: Hand-pull large weeds or use a hoe for small infestations before they become established, reducing the need for chemical controls in monkey grass beds.
- Follow label instructions carefully: Read and follow all herbicide labels for application rates, timing, and safety precautions specific to liriope to ensure effective weed control without plant damage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Weed Killers For Monkey Grass
1. What weed killer can I use on monkey grass without killing it?
Selective herbicides like Fusilade II (for grasses), Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D (for broadleaf weeds), and Image Kills Nutsedge (for sedges) can be used safely on monkey grass when applied according to label directions. Always spot-test before widespread application.
2. Can I use Roundup on monkey grass?
No, regular Roundup contains glyphosate, which will kill monkey grass. Use Roundup For Lawns formulations that do not contain glyphosate and are specifically labeled for use around ornamental plants.
3. How do I kill weeds in monkey grass without harming it?
Use selective herbicides that target specific weed types (grassy, broadleaf, or sedge). Spot-treat weeds rather than broadcast spraying to minimize chemical contact with monkey grass. Hand-pulling is also safe for small infestations.
4. Will 2,4-D kill monkey grass?
2,4-D is generally safe for monkey grass when applied according to label directions for use in liriope. It selectively controls broadleaf weeds without harming liriope, which is a monocot plant.
5. What kills crabgrass in monkey grass?
Products containing fluazifop-P-butyl (Fusilade II), sethoxydim (Over-The-Top II), or clethodim (Select 2 EC) effectively control crabgrass in monkey grass without damaging the liriope.
6. Can I use pre-emergent herbicides in monkey grass?
Yes, pre-emergent herbicides like prodiamine or pendimethalin can be applied to monkey grass beds in early spring to prevent weed seed germination. Apply before weed seeds begin to germinate for best results.
7. Why is nutsedge so hard to control in monkey grass?
Nutsedge is difficult to control because it produces underground tubers that can regrow even after top growth is killed. Products like Sedgehammer or Image Kills Nutsedge are needed for effective control.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the best weed killer for monkey grass requires matching the herbicide to your specific weed problems while ensuring safety for your valuable liriope plants. Fusilade II stands as the best overall choice for controlling grassy weeds in monkey grass, providing selective, systemic control of crabgrass, bermudagrass, and other invasive grasses without harming liriope.
Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D serves as the top option for broadleaf weed control, effectively eliminating dandelions, clover, and other broadleaf weeds while remaining safe for monkey grass. For nutsedge infestations, Image Kills Nutsedge provides targeted control that standard herbicides cannot achieve.
Implement integrated weed management strategies including proper identification, appropriate product selection, timing applications correctly, and maintaining healthy monkey grass to minimize weed problems. With the right herbicide and proper application, you can maintain beautiful, weed-free monkey grass beds that enhance your landscape.
Choose the weed killer that best matches your specific weed problems, application preferences, and budget to achieve effective weed control in your monkey grass beds. With consistent management and timely applications, you can preserve the beauty and health of your liriope for years to come.