I Think I Killed My Lawn With Weed-B-Gon

Weed-B-Gon, a chemical weed killer made by Ortho, removes weeds but can destroy a lawn if used incorrectly or on some vulnerable types of grass. Weed-B-Gon contains two common herbicides, 2,4-D and dicamba.

Application

Apply Weed-B-Gon by attaching the canister to a hose and spraying the weeds, or apply it directly from the bottle, depending on the type and product directions. Ortho recommends application during the day, when the temperature does not exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and no more than two applications each year.

Effects

Weeds treated with Weed-B-Gon wilt, yellow, die out and become brittle. Excessive or improper application can cause the same for healthy grass and plants, with bald spots appearing on the lawn.

Prevention/Solution

Apply Weed-B-Gon carefully and according to instructions. Do not spray more areas of the lawn than necessary, and wait at least two weeks between applications.

Plant new grass seed in areas damaged by Weed-B-Gon. Soak and fertilize the lawn before planting new grass seed to help remove herbicide residue and improve the soil.

Warning

Do not use Weed-B-Gon on centipede grass, Bahia grass or any type of St. Augustine grass. The herbicide will kill these types of grasses.

References

• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Household Products Database: Ortho Weed B Gon Weed Killer for Lawns
• The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company; Ortho® Weed-B-Gon MAX® Plus Crabgrass Control Ready-Spray: Details and Usage
• Colorado State University Extension; "Broadleaf Weed Control in Lawns"; Tony Koski; December 2010