Stickers, also known as burrs, sandburs, or grass burs, are painful weeds that can make walking barefoot in your lawn unbearable. Selecting the right pre emergent for stickers ensures your lawn remains free from these painful pests before they can establish and spread.
Pre-emergent herbicides work by creating a chemical barrier in the soil that prevents weed seeds from germinating, stopping stickers before they become a problem. Understanding application timing, active ingredients, and lawn preparation helps match the right product to your specific grass type and regional conditions.
Quality pre-emergent herbicides for stickers provide effective control, long-lasting protection, and safe formulations that won’t damage your established lawn. Choosing appropriate products prevents common issues like poor control, missed application windows, or lawn damage that compromise your weed management efforts.
In this guide, we will review the top 15 pre-emergent herbicides ideally suited for sticker control, evaluating their active ingredients, application timing, and overall effectiveness. We will also provide essential application guidance to ensure your lawn remains sticker-free throughout the growing season.
Top 15 Pre Emergent For Stickers
1. Prodiamine 65 WDG – Best pre-emergent for stickers in warm-season lawns
Prodiamine 65 WDG is a professional-grade pre-emergent herbicide that provides exceptional control of stickers, sandburs, and crabgrass in warm-season lawns. This active ingredient creates a long-lasting barrier that prevents sticker seeds from germinating for up to 4 months. Prodiamine is safe for use on Bermuda, zoysia, and St. Augustine grasses when applied at the correct rate.
- Crabgrass Control
- Pre-emergent and broadleaf weed control
This formulation is highly effective against sticker-producing weeds and provides season-long protection with a single application. The water-dispersible granule formulation mixes easily with water and provides even coverage when applied with a sprayer. Prodiamine is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking professional-grade sticker control.
To apply Prodiamine 65 WDG, mix the recommended rate per gallon of water and apply as a broadcast spray evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F and again in late summer for extended protection. Water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation within 24 hours of application.
Pros:
- Long-lasting
- Professional grade
- Warm-season safe
- Season-long control
- Easy mixing
- Effective
- Cost efficient
Cons:
- Requires sprayer
- Timing critical
- Not for cool-season
2. Dithiopyr 40 WDG – Best pre-emergent for stickers in cool-season lawns
Dithiopyr 40 WDG is a highly effective pre-emergent herbicide that provides excellent control of stickers, sandburs, and crabgrass in cool-season lawns. This active ingredient creates a barrier that prevents seed germination and also provides early post-emergent control of small seedlings. Dithiopyr is safe for use on fescue, bluegrass, and ryegrass lawns when applied at the correct rate.
- Effective Against: Annual grasses and broadleaf weeds
- Provides early post-emergent crabgrass control
This formulation provides up to 4 months of protection against sticker-producing weeds with a single application. The water-dispersible granule formulation mixes easily with water and provides even coverage when applied with a sprayer. Dithiopyr is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking reliable sticker control in northern lawns.
To apply Dithiopyr 40 WDG, mix the recommended rate per gallon of water and apply as a broadcast spray evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55-60°F for optimal results. Water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation within 24 hours of application.
Pros:
- Cool-season safe
- 4-month control
- Post-emergent action
- Easy mixing
- Effective
- Professional grade
- Reliable
Cons:
- Requires sprayer
- Timing critical
- Not for warm-season
3. Pendimethalin 38.7% – Best granular pre-emergent for stickers
Pendimethalin 38.7% is a granular pre-emergent herbicide that provides effective control of stickers, sandburs, and crabgrass in both warm and cool-season lawns. This active ingredient creates a chemical barrier that prevents sticker seeds from germinating for up to 3 months. The granular formulation is easy to apply with a broadcast spreader, making it ideal for homeowners.
- Effective Pre Emergent Solution: Our 0-0-7 Prodiamine granular pre-emergent is a reliable barricade pre-emergent herbicide designed to prevent a variety of weeds, including crabgrass. This crabgrass killer for lawns ensures a pristine, weed-free lawn environment.
- Comprehensive Crabgrass Prevention: This crabgrass preventer not only serves as a potent weed control agent but also acts as a lawn weed killer. With its prodiamine granular formulation, it efficiently prevents crabgrass and other common lawn weeds from emerging.
This formulation is safe for use on established lawns and provides season-long protection with proper timing. The granules release the active ingredient slowly, providing consistent control over an extended period. Pendimethalin is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking convenient, easy-to-apply sticker control.
To apply Pendimethalin 38.7%, fill a broadcast spreader with the recommended rate and apply evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F and water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation. For best results, apply before sticker seeds have a chance to germinate.
Pros:
- Granular formula
- Easy application
- Both grass types
- 3-month control
- No mixing
- Convenient
- Effective
Cons:
- Requires spreader
- Timing critical
- Shorter control
4. Benefin & Trifluralin 2.9% – Best combination pre-emergent for stickers
Benefin & Trifluralin 2.9% is a granular pre-emergent herbicide that combines two active ingredients for enhanced sticker and sandbur control. This formulation provides broad-spectrum control of sticker-producing weeds and other annual grasses. The dual-active ingredient formulation reduces the risk of resistance development and provides more consistent control.
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This product is safe for use on established warm-season lawns and provides up to 3 months of protection. The granular formulation is easy to apply with a broadcast spreader, making it convenient for homeowners. This combination product is an excellent choice for those seeking enhanced sticker control.
Apply Benefin & Trifluralin 2.9% using a broadcast spreader at the recommended rate evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F and water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation. For best results, apply before sticker seeds have a chance to germinate.
Pros:
- Two actives
- Granular formula
- Easy application
- Broad-spectrum
- Resistance fighter
- 3-month control
- Effective
Cons:
- Requires spreader
- Timing critical
- Warm-season only
5. Oryzalin 4 SC – Best liquid pre-emergent for stickers
Oryzalin 4 SC is a liquid pre-emergent herbicide that provides effective control of stickers, sandburs, and crabgrass in warm-season lawns. This active ingredient creates a long-lasting barrier that prevents sticker seeds from germinating for up to 4 months. The liquid formulation is ideal for homeowners with spray equipment and large lawns.
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This formulation is safe for use on Bermuda, zoysia, and St. Augustine grasses and provides season-long protection with proper timing. The liquid formulation mixes easily with water and provides even coverage when applied with a sprayer. Oryzalin is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking professional-grade sticker control.
To apply Oryzalin 4 SC, mix the recommended rate per gallon of water and apply as a broadcast spray evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F and again in late summer for extended protection. Water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation within 24 hours of application.
Pros:
- Liquid formula
- 4-month control
- Warm-season safe
- Season-long
- Easy mixing
- Professional grade
- Effective
Cons:
- Requires sprayer
- Timing critical
- Not for cool-season
6. DCPA 75 WP – Best professional pre-emergent for stickers
DCPA 75 WP is a professional-grade pre-emergent herbicide that provides exceptional control of stickers, sandburs, and crabgrass in both warm and cool-season lawns. This active ingredient creates a long-lasting barrier that prevents sticker seeds from germinating for up to 4 months. DCPA is widely used by golf courses and sports turf managers for reliable sticker control.
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This formulation is safe for use on established lawns and provides season-long protection with proper timing. The wettable powder formulation mixes easily with water and provides even coverage when applied with a sprayer. DCPA is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking professional-grade sticker control.
To apply DCPA 75 WP, mix the recommended rate per gallon of water and apply as a broadcast spray evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F and water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation. For best results, apply before sticker seeds have a chance to germinate.
Pros:
- Professional grade
- Both grass types
- 4-month control
- Season-long
- Easy mixing
- Effective
- Reliable
Cons:
- Requires sprayer
- Timing critical
- Higher cost
7. Simazine 90 WDG – Best pre-emergent for stickers in warm-season lawns
Simazine 90 WDG is a pre-emergent herbicide that provides effective control of stickers and sandburs in warm-season lawns. This active ingredient creates a barrier that prevents seed germination and also provides some control of winter weeds. Simazine is safe for use on established Bermuda, zoysia, and St. Augustine lawns.
- SIMAZINE 4L herbicide controls a variety of annual broadleaf and grass weeds in Agricultural Crops, Turf and Ornamentals.
- REGISTERED for use in Citrus, Field crops, Tree Fruit and Nut.
This formulation provides up to 3 months of protection against sticker-producing weeds with a single application. The water-dispersible granule formulation mixes easily with water and provides even coverage when applied with a sprayer. Simazine is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking effective sticker control in warm-season lawns.
To apply Simazine 90 WDG, mix the recommended rate per gallon of water and apply as a broadcast spray evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F for optimal results. Water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation within 24 hours of application.
Pros:
- Warm-season safe
- 3-month control
- Winter weed control
- Easy mixing
- Effective
- Professional grade
- Reliable
Cons:
- Requires sprayer
- Timing critical
- Not for cool-season
8. Prodiamine 0.57% Granular – Best granular prodiamine for stickers
Prodiamine 0.57% Granular is a convenient, easy-to-apply pre-emergent that provides effective control of stickers, sandburs, and crabgrass. This granular formulation contains the same effective active ingredient as the professional-grade liquid but in a ready-to-use spreader format. The granular formulation is ideal for homeowners who prefer broadcast spreader application over spraying.
- Designed to prevent weeds; will not aid in eliminating existing weeds. Prevents grassy and broadleaf weeds, including crabgrass, poa annua, goosegrass, henbit, and more.
- Contains 0.48% of the active ingredient prodiamine for professional-grade weed control for early spring and fall applications
This product provides up to 3 months of protection against sticker-producing weeds and is safe for use on established lawns. The granules release the active ingredient slowly, providing consistent control over an extended period. Prodiamine granular is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking convenient sticker control.
Apply Prodiamine 0.57% Granular using a broadcast spreader at the recommended rate evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F and water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation. For best results, apply before sticker seeds have a chance to germinate.
Pros:
- Granular formula
- Easy application
- 3-month control
- No mixing
- Convenient
- Effective
- Both grass types
Cons:
- Requires spreader
- Timing critical
- Shorter control
9. Dithiopyr 0.2% Granular – Best granular dithiopyr for stickers
Dithiopyr 0.2% Granular is a convenient, easy-to-apply pre-emergent that provides effective control of stickers, sandburs, and crabgrass in cool-season lawns. This granular formulation contains the same effective active ingredient as the professional-grade liquid but in a ready-to-use spreader format. The granular formulation is ideal for homeowners who prefer broadcast spreader application over spraying.
This product provides up to 3 months of protection against sticker-producing weeds and is safe for use on established fescue, bluegrass, and ryegrass lawns. The granules release the active ingredient slowly, providing consistent control over an extended period. Dithiopyr granular is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking convenient sticker control in northern lawns.
Apply Dithiopyr 0.2% Granular using a broadcast spreader at the recommended rate evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55-60°F and water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation. For best results, apply before sticker seeds have a chance to germinate.
Pros:
- Granular formula
- Easy application
- 3-month control
- No mixing
- Cool-season safe
- Effective
- Convenient
Cons:
- Requires spreader
- Timing critical
- Not for warm-season
10. Benefin 2.5% Granular – Best budget pre-emergent for stickers
Benefin 2.5% Granular is an affordable, easy-to-apply pre-emergent that provides effective control of stickers, sandburs, and crabgrass. This granular formulation is ideal for budget-conscious homeowners seeking reliable sticker control without breaking the bank. The granules release the active ingredient slowly, providing consistent control over an extended period.
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This product provides up to 3 months of protection against sticker-producing weeds and is safe for use on established warm-season lawns. The granular formulation is easy to apply with a broadcast spreader, making it convenient for homeowners. Benefin granular is an excellent choice for those seeking budget-friendly sticker control.
Apply Benefin 2.5% Granular using a broadcast spreader at the recommended rate evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F and water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation. For best results, apply before sticker seeds have a chance to germinate.
Pros:
- Budget friendly
- Granular formula
- Easy application
- 3-month control
- No mixing
- Warm-season safe
- Effective
Cons:
- Requires spreader
- Timing critical
- Shorter control
11. Oxadiazon 2G – Best pre-emergent for stickers in Southern lawns
Oxadiazon 2G is a granular pre-emergent herbicide that provides effective control of stickers, sandburs, and crabgrass in warm-season southern lawns. This active ingredient creates a long-lasting barrier that prevents sticker seeds from germinating for up to 4 months. The granular formulation is easy to apply with a broadcast spreader, making it ideal for homeowners.
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This formulation is safe for use on established Bermuda, zoysia, and St. Augustine lawns and provides season-long protection with proper timing. The granules release the active ingredient slowly, providing consistent control over an extended period. Oxadiazon is an excellent choice for homeowners in southern regions seeking effective sticker control.
Apply Oxadiazon 2G using a broadcast spreader at the recommended rate evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F and water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation. For best results, apply before sticker seeds have a chance to germinate.
Pros:
- Southern lawns
- 4-month control
- Granular formula
- Easy application
- Season-long
- Effective
- Reliable
Cons:
- Requires spreader
- Timing critical
- Warm-season only
12. Prodiamine & Sulfentrazone – Best combination pre-emergent for stickers and broadleaf weeds
Prodiamine & Sulfentrazone is a combination pre-emergent herbicide that provides control of stickers, sandburs, and broadleaf weeds in one application. This formulation combines the pre-emergent action of prodiamine with the broadleaf control of sulfentrazone for comprehensive weed management. The liquid formulation is ideal for homeowners seeking a complete weed control solution.
- PREVENT WEED DEVELOPMENT: Barricade 4FL controls the growth and development of weeds before they germinate. Barricade 4FL will not control weeds after they have germinated. This product is labeled for use in a broad range of areas such as vegetation sites, turf species, weed control, grass, broadleaf weeds, established turfgrasses, lawns, sod nurseries, and Christmas tree farms.
- LONG-LASTING PREEMERGENCE WEED PREVENTION: Take action before unsightly vegetation infiltrates your landscaped lawn with our pre-emergent concentrate. One application can prevent weeds season long when used as directed. You can apply this selective weed spray solution several months before germination and expect it to work well into the peak season.
This product provides up to 4 months of protection against sticker-producing weeds and also controls existing broadleaf weeds. The liquid formulation mixes easily with water and provides even coverage when applied with a sprayer. This combination product is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking comprehensive weed control.
To apply Prodiamine & Sulfentrazone, mix the recommended rate per gallon of water and apply as a broadcast spray evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F and water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation. For best results, apply before sticker seeds have a chance to germinate.
Pros:
- Combination formula
- Broadleaf control
- 4-month control
- Liquid formula
- Comprehensive
- Easy mixing
- Effective
Cons:
- Requires sprayer
- Timing critical
- Higher cost
13. Benefin 2.5% + Prodiamine 0.57% – Best dual-action granular pre-emergent
Benefin 2.5% + Prodiamine 0.57% is a dual-action granular pre-emergent that combines two active ingredients for enhanced sticker and sandbur control. This formulation provides broad-spectrum control of sticker-producing weeds and other annual grasses. The dual-active ingredient formulation reduces the risk of resistance development and provides more consistent control.
- Prevent Weeds
- Effective Weed Prevention: Incorporating 0.37% PRODIAMINE into your lawn care routine ensures effective strategies for weed prevention, particularly targeting common weeds like crabgrass in the spring and poa annua (annual bluegrass) in the fall.
This product is safe for use on established warm-season lawns and provides up to 3 months of protection. The granular formulation is easy to apply with a broadcast spreader, making it convenient for homeowners. This combination product is an excellent choice for those seeking enhanced sticker control.
Apply Benefin 2.5% + Prodiamine 0.57% using a broadcast spreader at the recommended rate evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F and water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation. For best results, apply before sticker seeds have a chance to germinate.
Pros:
- Dual action
- Granular formula
- Easy application
- Broad-spectrum
- Resistance fighter
- 3-month control
- Effective
Cons:
- Requires spreader
- Timing critical
- Warm-season only
14. Isoxaben 75 WDG – Best pre-emergent for broadleaf stickers
Isoxaben 75 WDG is a pre-emergent herbicide that provides exceptional control of broadleaf weeds, including sticker-producing species like burr clover and lawn burweed. This active ingredient creates a barrier that prevents broadleaf seed germination for up to 4 months. Isoxaben is safe for use on established lawns and provides effective control of hard-to-kill broadleaf stickers.
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This formulation is particularly effective against sticker-producing broadleaf weeds that are not controlled by other pre-emergents. The water-dispersible granule formulation mixes easily with water and provides even coverage when applied with a sprayer. Isoxaben is an excellent choice for homeowners struggling with broadleaf stickers.
To apply Isoxaben 75 WDG, mix the recommended rate per gallon of water and apply as a broadcast spray evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F and water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation. For best results, apply before sticker seeds have a chance to germinate.
Pros:
- Broadleaf stickers
- 4-month control
- Easy mixing
- Professional grade
- Effective
- Both grass types
- Reliable
Cons:
- Requires sprayer
- Timing critical
- Higher cost
15. Prodiamine & Isoxaben – Best combination for stickers and broadleaf stickers
Prodiamine & Isoxaben is a combination pre-emergent herbicide that provides comprehensive control of both grass-type stickers (sandburs) and broadleaf stickers (burweed) in one application. This formulation combines the grass weed control of prodiamine with the broadleaf weed control of isoxaben for complete sticker protection. The liquid formulation is ideal for homeowners seeking comprehensive sticker control.
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This product provides up to 4 months of protection against all types of sticker-producing weeds and is safe for use on established lawns. The liquid formulation mixes easily with water and provides even coverage when applied with a sprayer. This combination product is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking comprehensive sticker control.
To apply Prodiamine & Isoxaben, mix the recommended rate per gallon of water and apply as a broadcast spray evenly over the lawn before sticker seeds germinate. Apply in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F and water the product into the soil with 0.5 inches of irrigation. For best results, apply before sticker seeds have a chance to germinate.
Pros:
- Complete control
- Grass & broadleaf
- 4-month control
- Liquid formula
- Comprehensive
- Easy mixing
- Effective
Cons:
- Requires sprayer
- Timing critical
- Higher cost
Frequently Asked Questions About Pre Emergent For Stickers
1. What is the best pre-emergent for stickers?
Prodiamine 65 WDG, Dithiopyr 40 WDG, and Pendimethalin 38.7% are among the best pre-emergents for stickers, offering effective control and season-long protection. The right choice depends on your grass type and application preference.
2. When should I apply pre-emergent for stickers?
Apply pre-emergent for stickers in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55°F and again in late summer for extended protection. Timing is critical, as pre-emergents must be applied before sticker seeds germinate.
3. Can I apply pre-emergent and fertilizer at the same time?
Yes, many pre-emergent products are available in combination with fertilizer for convenience. However, separate applications allow for more precise timing and control of both products.
4. How long does pre-emergent last for stickers?
Most pre-emergent herbicides provide 3-4 months of control against stickers, depending on the active ingredient and application rate. A single spring application often provides season-long control.
5. Will pre-emergent kill existing stickers?
No, pre-emergent herbicides only prevent seed germination and will not control existing stickers. Use post-emergent herbicides or manual removal for existing sticker plants.
6. Can I apply pre-emergent to a newly seeded lawn?
Most pre-emergent herbicides should not be applied to newly seeded lawns until the grass is established, typically after 3-4 mowings. Check the product label for specific timing recommendations.
7. Is pre-emergent safe for pets?
Most pre-emergent herbicides are safe for pets once they have been watered in and the lawn is dry. Always follow label instructions for safety precautions and keep pets off the lawn during application.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the right pre emergent for stickers is essential for maintaining a comfortable, sticker-free lawn that you and your family can enjoy barefoot. Prodiamine 65 WDG earned our top recommendation for its long-lasting control, professional-grade formulation, and exceptional effectiveness against stickers in warm-season lawns. Pendimethalin 38.7% emerged as the runner-up for its convenient granular formulation, ease of application, and reliable performance that makes it accessible for homeowners of all skill levels. Both products excel in their categories, addressing different priorities including application method, grass type, and control duration. The remaining thirteen products provide specialized advantages for specific needs, from cool-season lawns to broadleaf sticker control.
Each product reviewed above offers unique benefits tailored to specific grass types and application preferences. Consider your lawn type, regional conditions, and preferred application method when making your selection. The right pre-emergent program creates a sticker-free lawn that provides comfort and enjoyment for your family and pets.
Investing in quality pre-emergent herbicides for sticker control protects your lawn from painful weeds and reduces the need for post-emergent treatments. Proper timing, correct application rates, and adequate watering are essential for optimal results. The modest investment in pre-emergent products returns significant dividends in lawn comfort, usability, and peace of mind.
Ready to enjoy a sticker-free lawn with the best pre emergent for stickers? Choose from our recommended options above and experience the difference in lawn comfort and appearance. Browse our selection today and invest in effective sticker control for your lawn. Start your pre-emergent program now and enjoy a pain-free lawn all season long.