Best Herbicide For Poa Annua of 2024: Top 6 Picks

By Harry RamosLast update: 2024-12-06

As the winter season approaches, it's time to start thinking about the pesky weeds that will soon be sprouting up on our lawns. One of the most common and stubborn weeds out there is Poa Annua - a species that can take over your lawn if not dealt with properly. But fear not! We’ll help you find out the best herbicide for Poa Annua.

Here are the best herbicides for poa annua you can buy in 2024:

  • Best For Bermuda Grass (Pre-Emergence): Yard Mastery Prodiamine 65 WDG
  • Best For Centipede Grass (Pre-Emergence): Quali-Pro 2495
  • Rain And Snow Resistance (Pre-Emergence): Scotts 49900
  • Low Odor (Post-Emergence): Quali-Pro Negate 37WG Herbicide
  • Herbicide & Fertilizer Combo (Post-Emergence): BioAdvanced 704841
  • Best For St. Augustine Grass (Post-Emergence): Southern Ag 00614
6 Best Herbicides For Poa Annua
Best For Bermuda Grass
Yard Mastery Prodiamine 65 WDG
  • Pre-Emergence
Best For Centipede Grass
Quali-Pro 2495
  • Pre-Emergence
Rain And Snow Resistance
Scotts 49900
  • Pre-Emergence
Low Odor
Quali-Pro Negate 37WG Herbicide
  • Post-Emergence
Herbicide & Fertilizer Combo
BioAdvanced 704841
  • Post-Emergence
Best For St. Augustine Grass
Southern Ag 00614
  • Post-Emergence

Best For Bermuda Grass: Yard Mastery Prodiamine 65 WDG

Yard Mastery Prodiamine 65 WDG
Yard Mastery Prodiamine 65 WDG
Pros
  • Safe for Bermuda grass yet effective for Poa Annua control – Prodiamine
  • Easy to apply - water-dispersible granule formulation
Cons
  • The instructions could be clearer

The Yard Mastery Prodiamine 65 WDG is best suited for controlling Poa Annua in Bermuda grass due to its unique combination of pre-emergent herbicide and water-dispersible granule formulation.

This means the herbicide can effectively prevent Poa Annua germination and growth before it even starts by creating a barrier in the soil that stops the weed's development.

Regardless, it's gentle on surrounding plants, helping to keep all other turf grass healthy and strong.

Besides, this product is easy to apply with a spreader or sprayer and can be used for both spring and fall applications.

Yard Mastery Prodiamine 65 WDG Specifications

Weight

5.2 Ounces

Volume

5 ounces

Ingredients

Prodiamine

Highlight Features

Prodiamine

water-dispersible granule formulation

Verdict

The Yard Mastery Prodiamine 65 WDG is trusted by many lawn owners whose Bermuda turfgrass is invaded by Poa Annua.

Best For Centipede Grass: Quali-Pro 2495

Quali-Pro 2495
Quali-Pro 2495
Pros
  • Not harm Centipede grass
  • Highly effective - Prodiamine 65%
Cons
  • It takes a little effort to learn how to use

The Quali-Pro 2495 is a highly effective pre-emergent herbicide for Poa Annua due to its active ingredient, Prodiamine.

Prodiamine is a pre-emergent weed control product that works by forming a barrier beneath the soil surface, preventing the growth of annual grassy weeds such as Poa Annua.

It also provides long-term residual control against grass and broadleaf weeds.

On top of that, it's safe for centipede grass.

Quali-Pro 2495 Specifications

Weight

5 Pounds

Volume

5 Liters

Ingredients

Prodiamine 65%

Highlight Features

Not harm Centipede grass

Prodiamine 65%

Verdict

The Quali-Pro 2495 not only kills and controls Poa Annua perfectly but is also safe for centipede grass.

Rain And Snow Resistance: Scotts 49900

Scotts 49900
Scotts 49900
Pros
  • Can be used in wet conditions or during winter – rain and snow resistance properties
  • Ideal for large areas - 10 pounds, with a coverage of 5,000 square feet
Cons
  • Wish the bad could be zippered

As a pre-emergent Poa Annua control, the Scotts 49900 works well to stop the growth of new weed seedlings.

But the best part is this product can resist snow and rain after application. It forms a thin barrier near the surface of the soil which intercepts the germinating crabgrass seeds and stops them from growing, even in wet conditions.

Besides, this product also provides protection against other existing weeds as well.

With two size options—10 pounds and 20 pounds, with a coverage of 5,000-10,000 square feet respectively—we recommend the Scotts 49900 for large areas.

Scotts 49900 Specifications

Weight

10 pounds

Ingredients

Pendimethalin, 1.79%

Highlight Features

rain and snow resistance properties

10 pounds, with a coverage of 5,000 square feet

Verdict

The Scotts 49900 is the most effective pre-emergence herbicide for Poa Annua with great rain-and-snow resistant properties that you can find on the market.

Low Odor: Quali-Pro Negate 37WG Herbicide

Quali-Pro Negate 37WG Herbicide
Quali-Pro Negate 37WG Herbicide
Pros
  • More comfortable to use – low-odor formulation
  • Economical & long-lasting – a dual-powered post-emergent Sulfonylurea formula
  • Easy to store – compact size & tight cap
Cons
  • It works slowly
  • Complicated to mix

Making the Quali-Pro Negate 37WG Herbicide a standout from the competition is its unique dual-powered post-emergent Sulfonylurea formula that can excellently control Poa Annua in Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass.

(Sulfonylurea herbicides are known to be highly effective at low use rates.)

When applied at temperatures between 65-85 degrees, this herbicide can provide up to 3 years of control.

Another benefit of this unique dual-powered post-emergent Sulfonylurea formulation is low odor.

Quali-Pro Negate 37WG Herbicide Specifications

Weight

0.04 Kilograms

Volume

1.5 ounces

Ingredients

metsulfuron methyl, Herbicide

Highlight Features

low-odor formulation

a dual-powered post-emergent Sulfonylurea formula

Verdict

Compared to other post emergence herbicides for Poa Annua, the Quali-Pro Negate 37WG Herbicide stands out for its low-odor formulation.

Herbicide & Fertilizer Combo: BioAdvanced 704841

BioAdvanced 704841
BioAdvanced 704841
Pros
  • Help turf grow thicker and denser – contain a slow-release fertilizer
  • Long-lasting – provide 6-month protection
  • Specially designed for Southern lawns
Cons
  • The product works slowly
  • Hard to store – the bag has no zipper

Our next pick, the BioAdvanced 704841, is for those seeking a reliable Poa Annua herbicide that doubles as a slow-release fertilizer.

This product contains a unique blend of active ingredients which are proven to prevent Poa Annua, along with grassy weeds including annual bluegrass, crabgrass, spurge, and goosegrass.

Also, it helps control damaging pests such as Emerald Ash Borer.

But that's not all. This herbicide contains a slow-release fertilizer that provides essential nutrients to the grass, enabling it to become thicker and denser, which will further suppress weed growth.

BioAdvanced 704841 Specifications

Weight

25.2 Pounds

Ingredients

0.027% Indaziflam

0.041% Penoxsulam

0.088% Dicamba acid

Highlight Features

contain a slow-release fertilizer

provide 6-month protection

Specially designed for Southern lawns

Verdict

As an herbicide and fertilizer combo, the BioAdvanced 704841 makes it easy and convenient to take care of your lawn.

Best For St. Augustine Grass: Southern Ag 00614

Southern Ag 00614
Southern Ag 00614
Pros
  • Safe on St. Augustine Grass
  • Easy to use and rainfast within 2 or 3 days of application
  • Easy to hold – a top handle
Cons
  • It requires a pump-up sprayer for use

The Southern Ag 00614 is the best option when it comes to controlling Poa Annua in St. Augustine grass.

This powerful weed killer is specifically designed to target and control Poa Annua and is effective against emerging weeds and weeds from seed.

As an added bonus, it is easy to use and rainfast within 2 or 3 days of application.

Southern Ag 00614 Specifications

Weight

4.33 Ounces

Volume

3.79 Milliliters

Ingredients

atrazine

Highlight Features

Safe on St. Augustine Grass

Easy to use and rainfast within 2 or 3 days of application

a top handle

Verdict

The Southern Ag 00614 is labeled to be safe for use on St Augustine grass while delivering excellent control over Poa Annua weed.

How To Choose The Best Herbicide For Poa Annua?

Active Ingredients

The active ingredients in herbicides that are best for controlling Poa Annua are Atrazine, Simazine, and Glyphosate.

Atrazine has been used for many years to control Poa Annua and is considered to be one of the most effective herbicides for this purpose. It works by preventing weeds’ germination, so it is important to apply it before any Poa seeds have had a chance to sprout.

Simazine is a contact herbicide that is absorbed by the leaves of the plant and then translocated throughout the plant tissue, killing the plant within two weeks.

Glyphosate is also a contact herbicide and works by disrupting the plant’s ability to produce proteins needed for growth and development.

Bonus tips:

When using any of these active ingredients, it is important to apply them at the recommended rate according to the label instructions and to ensure proper coverage over the affected area.

All three herbicides should be applied when the temperature is below 85 degrees Fahrenheit and the grass is dry.

Users should be sure to wear protective equipment such as gloves and long pants when applying the herbicides.

Consider The Type Of Turfgrass Being Treated

The herbicide formulation should be targeted toward the type of turfgrass being treated, as different species of turfgrass may have different herbicide sensitivities.

For example, warm-season turfgrass such as Bermuda and Zoysia requires different herbicides than cool-season turfgrass such as Fescue and Ryegrass.

Pre-emergent herbicides are generally the most effective way to prevent Poa Annua from germinating, while post-emergent herbicides are effective at controlling existing weeds.

Depending on the type of turf, some herbicides can be used before or after the grass has emerged.

Additionally, some herbicides have a residual effect, meaning they will remain active in the soil even after the Poa Annua has been killed, allowing for continued protection against future germination of Poa Annua seeds.

Therefore, knowing the type of turf that exists in an area will help determine the most effective and safest herbicide for controlling Poa Annua.

Method Of Application

The method of application should be considered, as some products may require selective spot-treating, while others may require extensive ground coverage.

Which Brands Make The Best Herbicide For Poa Annua?

Yard Mastery

Yard Mastery is a reliable brand that provides high-quality lawn care products and has a team of experts with a wealth of knowledge to help you get the most out of your lawn care experience.

They are committed to providing the best in lawn care products and services and have a proven track record of customer satisfaction.

They also offer instructional videos that provide valuable tips on how to properly use the product.

Scotts

Scotts offers from organic to traditional herbicides, so you can choose the best one for your needs.

It also offers a line of weed and feed fertilizers that combine weed prevention and control with essential lawn nutrients that help to improve soil health and promote grass growth. These products are designed to provide long-lasting protection against weeds while boosting the health of your lawn.

BioAdvanced

BioAdvanced is a reliable and trustworthy brand for herbicides.

Their products have effective formulas that have been tested and approved by the EPA, and can help you get rid of unwanted weeds and crabgrass. Plus, they offer a variety of products designed to fit different needs and budgets.

FAQs

Is there a selective herbicide for Poa Annua?

Yes, there are many selective herbicides for Poa Annua, such as:

  • Yard Mastery Prodiamine 65 WDG
  • Quali-Pro 2495
  • Scotts 49900
  • Quali-Pro Negate 37WG Herbicide
  • BioAdvanced 704841
  • Southern Ag 00614

What month does Poa Annua germinate?

Poa Annua weeds typically germinate when soil temperatures drop lower than 70 degrees Fahrenheit, usually in the late summer or early autumn. This usually occurs at the end of August or beginning of September.

When should you not spray herbicide for Poa Annua?

You should not spray herbicide for Poa Annua when temperatures of the soil are above 70°F, or when you are unsure if the weed is actually Poa Annua. You should also avoid spraying a post-emergent herbicide over turfgrass, as it could kill them.

What happens to Poa Annua after herbicide?

After application of a pre-emergent or post-emergent herbicide, Poa Annua will begin to die off and eventually disappear.

How many times can I spray herbicide for Poa Annua?

The number of times you can spray herbicide for Poa Annua depends on which specific herbicide you are using.

For pre-emergent herbicides, you should generally spray once in the fall and once in the spring. For post-emergent herbicides like Blindside, you may need to re-apply if the initial application begins to wear off.

Conclusion

The best herbicide for Poa Annua control should be the one that targets the weed without harming your plants.

Selecting the appropriate product for your situation and unique needs can be difficult without proper research and assessment. But we hope this comprehensive guide has helped you select the right option to maximize success in eliminating this tenacious weed from your lawn or garden.

Thanks for reading!


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