Maintaining a healthy St. Augustine lawn requires effective weed prevention, especially with pre emergent herbicides designed to stop weeds before they start. Below is a summary table of top-rated pre emergent products tailored for St. Augustine grass to help you make an informed choice based on coverage, weed control spectrum, and ease of use.
| Product | Brand | Coverage | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Ag Atrazine 32oz | Southern Ag | 3,720 sq ft | Controls weeds in St. Augustine, Centipede; Specialty herbicide |
| The Andersons Barricade Granular | The Andersons | 5,800 sq ft | Professional-grade, prevents grassy and broadleaf weeds, contains prodiamine |
| Prodiamine 65 WDG 5lbs | Quali-Pro | Varies | Pre emergent, controls grass and broadleaf weeds, multiple pest targets |
| Scotts WeedEx Prevent | Scotts | 5,000 sq ft | Stops crabgrass, grassy weed prevention, spring & fall use |
| BioAdvanced Season Long Lawn Weed Killer | BioAdvanced | 4,000 sq ft | Kills & prevents broadleaf and grassy weeds up to 6 months |
Southern Ag 32oz Atrazine St. Augustine Weed Killer

Southern Ag Atrazine is a specialty herbicide formulated specifically for St. Augustine and Centipede grasses. One quart covers up to 3,720 square feet, making it effective for small to medium-sized yards. This product delivers targeted control against broadleaf weeds and some grassy weeds, aligning well with turf types common in southern lawns. Its light tan liquid form allows for easy mixing and application. Continuous use in early growing seasons supports weed prevention and maintains a lush, even lawn.
The Andersons Barricade Granular Pre-Emergent Weed Control

This granular pre-emergent by The Andersons provides professional-grade weed prevention using 0.48% prodiamine, a powerful active ingredient. Designed to prevent crabgrass, poa annua, goosegrass, henbit, and other broadleaf weeds, it covers up to 5,800 sq ft. It is intended for early spring and fall applications, offering season-long protection without affecting existing weeds. Easy to spread granules make lawn treatment straightforward, ensuring your St. Augustine grass stays weed-free.
Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG Pre-Emergent Weed Control

The Quali-Pro Prodiamine 65 WDG is a water-dispersible granule pre-emergent herbicide effective against a wide range of grassy and broadleaf weeds including crabgrass, chickweed, henbit, and goosegrass. Suitable for established turf grasses, including St. Augustine, it offers broad protection in various landscaping setups such as lawns, ornamentals, and nurseries. This product is ideal for users needing versatile weed control without compromising turf health.
Scotts WeedEx Prevent Crabgrass Pre-Emergent

Scotts WeedEx Prevent with Halts is designed to stop crabgrass before it germinates, providing season-long prevention for up to 5,000 square feet. Applying in early spring keeps lawns free from crabgrass, while a fall application stops winter weeds like henbit and Poa annua. Its granular formula is user-friendly and a popular choice for maintaining a smooth, uniform St. Augustine lawn throughout the growing season.
BioAdvanced Season Long Lawn Weed Killer + Preventer

The BioAdvanced Season Long Lawn Weed Killer offers dual action by killing existing broadleaf weeds like dandelion, clover, and henbit and preventing new grassy and broadleaf weed growth for up to six months. Designed exclusively for southern lawns and St. Augustine grass, this granular treatment covers 4,000 sq ft. It combines residual herbicides for long-term lawn health, making it an effective choice for comprehensive weed management.
Buying Guide for Pre Emergent Weed Control in St Augustine Lawns
Choosing the best pre emergent for St. Augustine depends on several factors:
- Active Ingredients: Look for proven herbicides like Atrazine and Prodiamine, which are effective on St. Augustine grass and provide broad-spectrum weed control.
- Coverage Area: Consider the size of your lawn. Granular formulas often cover larger areas while liquid concentrates provide dosing flexibility.
- Weed Spectrum: Select products based on the common weeds in your area—crabgrass, Poa annua, henbit, and broadleaf weeds.
- Application Timing: Pre emergents work best when applied before weed seeds germinate, generally in early spring and fall seasons.
- Ease of Use: Granular formulations spread easily with a spreader; liquid products require mixing and spraying equipment.
- Lawn Compatibility: Ensure the herbicide is safe for St. Augustine grass to avoid damage while maximizing weed control.
- Duration of Control: Some products offer up to six months of protection, reducing the frequency of applications.
By carefully assessing these aspects, you can select a pre emergent herbicide that effectively protects your St. Augustine lawn, keeping it green and weed-free throughout the growing season.