Investing in the best weed killer for driveways is one of those small things that makes a big difference. This is because it does a better job of eliminating weeds and grass than any other method. Unlike pulling out weeds, using a driveway weed killer thoroughly removes weeds and prevents new growth. Unfortunately, pulling weeds and grass only removes the surface weeds. It also leaves behind the seeds that go deeper into the ground and are able to encourage new growth.
We’ve taken time to search for the highest quality and safe-to-use weed killers that won’t affect the soil quality underneath your driveway. After in-depth testing, we’ve managed to put together the list of the top five recommendations for the best weed killer for driveways.
1. Roundup Ready-to-Use Sure Shot Wand Weed & Grass Killer
The Roundup Ready-to-Use Weed & Grass Killer features an all-around formula you can use around your property. This weed killer is designed for use around the driveway, walkway, vegetable garden, tree rings, and flowerbeds. You can also use it on your patio.
This is a ready-to-use weed killer that is fitted with a sure-shot wand. The wand makes the application easy and precise. Additionally, the sure-shot features a protective shield design that fits over weeds to contain the spray. Therefore, this design prevents healthy plants and flowers from being affected by the weed killer. The potent formula yields result in just three hours. Moreover, it remains rainproof for up to 10 minutes.
Pros
Includes application wand
The ready-to-use formula requires no mixing
Can treat spaces up to 400 square feet
A protective shield protects other plants
Formulated to treat roots and prevent regrowth
Cons
Limited rainproof period
2. Roundup Ready-To-Use Pump & Go Weed Killer
Featuring a dual-action formula, the Roundup Ready-To-Use Weed Killer doesn’t just tackle existing weeds. It also prevents new ones from growing back for up to four months. Unlike regular weed killers, this weed killer attacks the root to eliminate the chances of regrowth.
Furthermore, this versatile formula is suitable for weeds in different parts of your outdoor space. You can use this weed killer for your driveway, sidewalk, patio, and lawn. Its formula also has a waterproof feature that lasts for up to 10 minutes. Notably, when applied to the driveway, you can see results in just 30 minutes.
Pros
Pump and go spray
Extendable wand
10 minutes continuous spray
Ready-to-use formula
Refillable bottle
Cons
Must wear protective gear to use
Sprayer gets weak overtime
3. Roundup Max Control Weed Killer & Preventer
If you are looking for a long-term solution to weed growth on your driveway, the RoundUp Max Control is the answer. Formulated with highly potent components, this solution is designed to kill weeds and prevent regrowth for up to a year.
Moreover, this weed killer is reasonably fast-acting, but it still requires roughly 12 hours to clear your driveway thoroughly. You can also use the weed killer on your patio, sidewalks, and other gravel areas. Additionally, the weed killer remains rainproof for up to 30 minutes.
Pros
Prevents weed regrowth for up to 1 year
Unique comfort wand
Rainproof up to 30 minutes
Cons
Strong scent
It takes longer to see results
4. Roundup Ready-to-Use Poison Ivy Plus Killer
This Roundup formula is the go-to solution for anyone struggling with particularly stubborn weeds. The weed killer combines two potent brush-killing ingredients to tackle even the toughest weeds and grass. Like any good-quality weed killer, the sprayer targets the roots of weeds and grass.
This pick is specially formulated to kill stubborn growth such as ivies, poison oak, poison sumac, invasive vines, and shrubs. This spray promises noticeable results in as little as 24 hours, regardless of the type of weed or vine you are using it for. It also offers rainproof protection for up to 30 minutes.
Pros
Kills stubborn weeds, grass, vines, and ivies
Results in 24 hours
Easy, ready to use formula
Extendable wand
Cons
No specified regrowth prevention time
5. Ortho Ground Clear Vegetation Killer
The Ortho Ground Clear Vegetation Killer is formulated to target growing weeds to clear out your driveway. You can also use it on sidewalks, gravel areas, and rock/desert landscapes. The concentrate works by targeting the weed roots and prevents regrowth for up to a year.
Its fast-acting formula yields result in no time, with visible changes in just 3 hours. During the wet season, the weed killer offers rainproof protection for up to an hour after application. To use the concentrate, simply mix 24 ounces of the concentrate with a gallon of water and transfer it to a sprayer bottle.
Pros
It covers up to 3,200 square feet
Fast-acting formula
Rainproof for up to an hour
Prevents regrowth for up to 1 year
It comes in four sizing options
Cons
Needs to be sprayed away from grass you do not want killed
Buying Guide — Choosing the Best Weed Killer for Driveways
When shopping for the best weed killer for driveways, always focus on the features offered. Doing so allows you to pick the right product for your task. Here are the key factors to consider before you purchase any driveway weed killer.
Formula
When choosing the best weed killer for driveways, you will come across selective and non-selective formulas. Selective weed killers target certain weeds and grass while leaving no impact on other vegetation. These types of weed killers work best for targeted weeds and grass near healthy plants and vegetation. For example, the best weed killer for bermuda grass will be much different than what you would use on a driveway.
On the other hand, non-selective weed killers attack any plant life they come in contact with. So, they work best if you want to clear out large areas or areas with no plants, such as gravel areas. However, keep in mind that weed killers can still have an impact on soil quality.
Mode of Application
Weed killers come in different forms and application styles. The most common style includes ready-to-use sprays, concentrates, and granules.
Ready-to-Use Sprays
Ready-to-use sprays come in a pre-mixed formula ready to spray on weeds and grass. These types of weed killers are usually pre-filled in a ready-to-spray jar or bottle. They are also equipped with a wand for close contact application. You can opt for a gun-style spray or a battery-powered spray bottle. You can also find small eight-ounce bottles you can take with you anywhere that offer more convenience.
Concentrate
Weed killers can also come in a potent concentrate form. Before using the concentrate, you must mix a small amount with water and transfer it to an applicator bottle. This type of weed killer is ideal for those who want to cover large spaces.
Granules
Some weed killers come in powder or granule form. Like the concentrated form, they have to be mixed with water before application. You don’t necessarily have to invest in an applicator sprayer every time you purchase a new pack of weed killer granules or concentrate. You can buy a reusable sprayer and simply refill it with the product over time you need to clear your driveway.
FAQs
Will weed killer permanently remove weeds from my driveway?
On its own, no. You have to combine two methods of weed removal to eradicate them from your driveway completely. First, you’ll need to pull any weeds you can see. Do your best to pull out the weeds from the root and make sure you can see no visible signs of weeds or grass when you’re finished. Second, you need to apply weed killer. Look for the best weed killer for driveways, and be sure to apply it in every nook and cranny you can get to. This allows the weed killer to target any remaining weeds or seeds underneath to prevent potential regrowth.
Can I make my own weed killer?
Some people use a mixture of water and vinegar or bleach to tackle weeds in their driveway. While this method successfully kills small growing weeds, it is not as effective as store-bought weed killer. Homemade mixtures aren’t potent enough to tackle older weeds or prevent regrowth.
Conclusion
Using the best weed killer for driveways offers a reliable solution to clearing your space from excess weed and grass growth. Our list above features a selection of different driveway weed killers to suit different needs.
Nonetheless, special care should be taken when using these chemicals. Always ensure you put on proper hand and face protection. Additionally, avoid using the weed killer on rainy or windy days. You don’t want the chemicals ending up in the wrong part of your outdoor space!