The best weed killer for yard stickers targets both the existing plants and their seeds to break the cycle.Yard stickers, also known as grass burrs or sticker weeds, are thorny nuisances that can overrun lawns quickly if not controlled.

These spiky seed heads stick to clothing, pet fur, and bare feet, making them a persistent issue for homeowners.

Most yard stickers fall under the category of annual grassy weeds, and selective herbicides are key for control without harming your lawn. Pre-emergent products help stop future growth, while post-emergents eliminate active infestations.

Below are the top 10 best weed killers for yard stickers, carefully chosen for their effectiveness, safety on turf, ease of use, and long-lasting results. Whether you prefer spot treatments or broad applications, these products will help reclaim your lawn from sticker weeds.

Top 10 Best Weed Killers for Yard Stickers

1. Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer

Targets over 250 broadleaf and grassy weeds including yard stickers. Contains 2,4-D, dicamba, and quinclorac for comprehensive control. Works best on warm-season lawns like Bermuda and Zoysia.

Rainproof in 1 hour with results in 3 days. Hose-end option for larger areas. Safe for pets after it dries.

Use when stickers are young. Don’t mow right before treatment. Gloves recommended.

2. Image Herbicide for Crabgrass and Sticker Weeds

Post-emergent formula that controls sticker weeds, crabgrass, and other lawn pests. Works on most Southern lawn types. Contains quinclorac and sulfentrazone.

Apply during active growth with visible results in 7–10 days. Works well with surfactants. Rainproof in 6 hours.

Apply when temperatures are below 85°F. Follow label for mixing. Not for new grass.

3. Scotts Halts Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Preventer

Pre-emergent granules that stop yard stickers before they sprout. Effective for early-season prevention. Lasts up to 4 months.

Safe for most turf types if applied before seeding. Requires watering in. Apply in spring and fall.

Do not use on recently seeded areas. Reapply every season. Spread evenly for full coverage.

4. BioAdvanced Season-Long Weed Control

Dual-action formula kills and prevents weeds like stickers. Safe on Bermuda, Fescue, and Zoysia grasses. Contains fenoxaprop and dicamba.

Lasts for months with one application. Rainproof in 1 hour. Best used early in the season.

Do not apply during drought. Wear gloves and eye protection. Store away from pets.

5. Roundup For Lawns Ready-To-Spray

Formulated to kill sticker weeds without harming grass. Safe for Southern lawns when used as directed. Contains MCPA, quinclorac, and dicamba.

Visible results in 3 days. Hose-end sprayer makes application easy. Rainproof in under 4 hours.

Don’t use near flowers or garden beds. Avoid overspray. Store upright and sealed.

6. Tenacity Herbicide

Powerful pre- and post-emergent control of grassy and broadleaf weeds including stickers. Mesotrione-based formula safe on cool-season grasses. Visible whitening shows weed control progress.

Works best when mixed with non-ionic surfactant. Apply with tank sprayer. Rainproof in 1 hour.

Avoid heat over 85°F. Can reseed after 2 weeks. Gloves required during handling.

7. Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns

Targets yard stickers and other broadleaf invaders. Uses a three-way herbicide mix for complete lawn coverage. Suitable for both spot and large area treatments.

Rainproof in 6 hours. Kills to the root. Effective in most US regions.

Don’t mow before applying. Avoid runoff into storm drains. Store locked and labeled.

8. RM18 Fast-Acting Weed & Grass Killer

Non-selective formula ideal for clearing sticker patches along driveways or edges. Combines glyphosate and diquat dibromide. Visible results within hours.

Best for non-lawn areas or targeted bare spot treatments. Not safe for use on turfgrass. Rainproof once dry.

Do not use on windy days. Wear full protection. Avoid pets and children until dry.

9. Hi-Yield Atrazine Weed Killer

Effective pre- and post-emergent for sticker control in St. Augustine and Centipede lawns. Controls a broad spectrum of weeds. Use in early spring.

Requires watering in after application. Avoid overuse. Visible results in 10–14 days.

May not work on all lawn types. Follow all local regulations. Not for northern grasses.

10. Quali-Pro MSM Turf Herbicide

Professional-grade weed killer used on golf courses and sports fields. Excellent for controlling yard stickers. Contains metsulfuron-methyl.

Low-use rate makes it economical. Long-lasting effect with slow but effective results. Safe on Bermuda and Zoysia.

Use with care near trees. Mix precisely. Avoid use in hot temperatures. This guide features top-rated solutions to keep your lawn sticker-free and safe for everyone.

Buyer’s Tips for Treating Yard Stickers

1. Use Pre-Emergents Early: Apply before sticker seeds germinate in spring.
2. Spot Treat Active Areas: Use non-selective products cautiously to avoid turf damage.
3. Choose Turf-Safe Herbicides: Select products based on your grass type.
4. Add Surfactants: For stubborn stickers, surfactants improve coverage and kill rates.
5. Mow Properly: Keep grass slightly taller to shade out weed seeds.
6. Stay Consistent: Multiple treatments may be needed across seasons.
7. Water as Directed: Follow product instructions for watering before or after use.

Best Weed Killer For Yard Stickers (FAQs)

1. What are yard stickers? They are sharp seed heads from weeds like sandbur and burweed.
2. When do stickers grow? Typically in spring and summer, depending on location.
3. Do vinegar sprays work? Only for foliage burn—roots and seeds survive.
4. Can I mow stickers? Mowing spreads seeds—treat first, then mow.
5. Are stickers harmful to pets? Yes—they can injure paws and fur.
6. Will one treatment solve the problem? Often not—combine pre- and post-emergents.
7. Should I pull stickers manually? It helps in small areas but won’t stop regrowth alone.

Conclusion

Sticker weeds can turn a peaceful yard into a painful mess, but with the right weed killers, control is possible.

Use pre-emergents like Scotts Halts early and follow up with post-emergents such as Image or Ortho for lasting results.

For severe infestations, consider Tenacity or professional-grade options. Combine herbicide use with proper lawn care practices to reduce recurrence. Take action now to protect your yard from painful burrs and enjoy a safer outdoor space.