Best Lawn Fertilizer and Weed Killer for Summer: Top Products & Tips for a Healthy Lawn

Finding the best lawn fertilizer and weed killer for summer is essential if you want to keep your grass lush, green, and weed-free during the hottest months. Summertime stress—heat, drought, and aggressive weeds—can threaten even the healthiest lawns. In this guide, you’ll discover the highest-performing products for summer lawn care, chosen using real-life effectiveness, safety for grass, ease of use, and suitability for both cool- and warm-season grasses. Whether you’re after the best fertilizer for hot weather or a lawn weed killer safe for grass, you’ll leave with actionable tips and expert-approved recommendations to keep your lawn thriving.

How We Chose the Best Lawn Fertilizer and Weed Killer for Summer

Our testing process centered around a few essential elements — let’s take a closer look at what mattered most.

Key Testing Criteria

To select the best lawn fertilizer and weed killer for summer, we focused on these criteria:

• Effectiveness in High Heat: Can the product perform during peak summer temperatures?
• Safety for Grass: Is it a weed and feed for summer lawns that won’t burn turf?
• Ease of Use: Are the directions clear, and is application straightforward?
• Versatility: Does it work for multiple grass types and handle a range of weeds?
• Environmental Impact: Do formulas minimize harm to beneficial microbes and pollinators?

We also considered real user reviews, recent gardening research, and recommendations from turf specialists.

Why Summer Lawn Care Is Different

Summer presents unique challenges. Lawns face water stress, rampant weed growth, and the risk of fertilizer burn. Improper products or timing can set your yard back for seasons. Expert summer lawn care tips always stress using targeted solutions—ideally, the best lawn fertilizer and weed killer for summer—that operate effectively in hot, dry, or humid climates to control weeds and feed your lawn without damage.

Best Lawn Fertilizer and Weed Killer for Summer: Our Top Picks

We’ve rounded up the best lawn care solutions to help you achieve a greener, healthier yard all summer long.

Best Overall: GreenView Broadleaf Weed Control Plus Lawn Food

GreenView delivers a superb all-in-one weed and feed for summer lawns, consistently topping independent tests. Its special formulation eradicates 250+ varieties of broadleaf weeds while delivering a slow-release nitrogen feed that supports green, healthy grass even in the height of summer.

• Controls common weeds: dandelion, clover, and chickweed
• Slow-release nutrients for up to 8 weeks
• Safe for most cool- and warm-season grasses
• Strong customer and expert reviews (4.6 stars avg. on Home Depot)

Ideal for homeowners wanting a single, reliable summer solution. Slight limitation: not suitable for St. Augustine or carpet grass.

“The best fertilizer for hot weather keeps grass green without burning. GreenView is my go-to.” – Local turf expert

Best Value: Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed

Scotts is renowned for accessible, affordable products, and their Turf Builder Weed and Feed is no exception. Designed for summer application, it helps feed your lawn while controlling up to 50 broadleaf weed types.

• Dual-action to thicken grass and tackle weeds
• Covers up to 5,000 sq. ft. per bag
• Great for those on a budget
• Application is easy using a standard spreader

It may not tackle as many weed varieties as GreenView, but it delivers exceptional value for midsized summer lawns.

Best Upgrade: BioAdvanced 5-in-1 Weed & Feed

BioAdvanced raises the bar with its 5-in-1 formula, combining lawn food, pre-emergent crabgrass control, and more. It’s intensely effective against persistent summer weeds and includes micronutrients for maximum lawn resilience.

• Controls broadleaf weeds, crabgrass, and sedge
• Works as both fertilizer and pre-emergent
• Includes iron for deep greening
• Coverage: up to 10,000 sq ft per bag

Best for high-performance summer lawns with diverse weed problems. The main drawback is its higher price point.

Best Natural Option: Espoma Organic Weed Preventer

If eco-friendliness drives your summer lawn care tips, Espoma is the clear front-runner. Its corn gluten formula is OMRI Listed for organic use and won’t harm kids, pets, or pollinators.

• All-natural weed prevention (corn gluten)
• Feeds lawn while reducing new weed growth
• Safe for established lawns, pets, and children
• Best for preventative use, not for existing weeds

Espoma shines for organic gardeners, though it won’t kill existing weeds—think of it as a proactive solution.

Best for Cool-Season Grass: GreenView Fairway Formula Spring Weed and Feed

A standout for northern lawns, the GreenView Fairway Formula targets weeds that thrive in cooler areas while providing a potent nutrient boost.

• Targets clover, chickweed, dandelion
• Enhanced slow-release nitrogen
• Designed for fescue, bluegrass, and ryegrass
• Expert-recommended for early and midsummer apps

Not suitable for southern warm-season turf. Perfect for late spring to midsummer applications in cooler climates.

Best for Warm-Season Grass: Scotts Turf Builder Southern Triple Action

With triple-action power—fertilizer, weed killer, and fire ant control—this is the best fertilizer for hot weather in southern states. It’s engineered specifically for St. Augustine, zoysia, centipede, and carpet grass.

• Controls dollarweed, clover, and over 25 more
• Feeds and strengthens against drought
• Also controls fire ants for up to 6 months
• Fast, visible results within weeks

Not for use on cool-season grasses. A top performer for homeowners in warm, humid climates.

Best Liquid Formula: Scotts Liquid Turf Builder With Plus 2 Weed Control

Perfect for those who need fast results or have smaller lawns, this spray-on option works quickly in the heat.

• Combines feeding and broadleaf weed control
• Easy hose-end sprayer covers 2,000 sq ft
• Results as fast as 24 hours in ideal conditions
• Effortless for targeted applications

The only caution: less economical for large yards, but unbeatable for spot treatments or busy schedules.

DIY Alternatives: How to Make Your Own Weed and Feed

For DIYers, mixing their own weed and feed can be rewarding and eco-friendly. Here’s a basic approach:

1. Homemade Weed Prevention: Sprinkle corn gluten meal (10-20 lbs per 1,000 sq ft) as a pre-emergent.
2. Natural Fertilizer: Use compost tea, seaweed extract, or diluted fish emulsion for gentle summer feeding.
3. Manual Weed Removal: Combine pulling with selective spot spraying of vinegar-based solutions (not for use on grass) for tougher weeds.

TIP: Always test homemade mixes on a small section first to avoid damaging your lawn.

What to Consider When Choosing a Lawn Fertilizer and Weed Killer for Summer

A few smart choices now can lead to a greener, stronger lawn. Here’s what matters most when selecting summer lawn products.

Grass Type and Climate Considerations

Understanding your grass species is key to effective summer lawn care. Cool-season varieties (fescue, bluegrass) differ from warm-season types (zoysia, Bermuda, St. Augustine) in their nutrient needs and heat tolerance. Choose products labeled for your grass type and region.

Understanding the NPK Ratio

The NPK ratio tells you the product’s blend of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). For summer, pick a formula slightly lower in nitrogen to reduce the risk of burning. Look for NPK ratios emphasizing potassium for heat and drought resilience.

Natural vs. Synthetic Formulas

Natural options (like corn gluten) are safer for children, pets, and pollinators, plus they contribute long-term soil health. Synthetic blends, meanwhile, act faster and often provide weed-killing power but may lead to build-up or runoff if not used responsibly. Consider your priorities and local regulations, especially during summer.

For gardeners serious about sustainable options, explore our guide to the best liquid lawn fertilizer for organic recommendations.

Application Timing and Method

Apply your chosen product when temps are below 85°F to reduce burn risk. Early morning or late evening, when grass is dry, ensures optimal absorption and weed control.

• Granular feeds, spread evenly and watered in
• Liquid options for targeting specific zones

Weed Types Targeted

Read labels to make sure your product handles the specific weeds plaguing your lawn (dandelion, crabgrass, clover, etc.). If you’re torn, opt for covers-all formulas like GreenView or BioAdvanced.

How to Use Fertilizer and Weed Killer Safely and Effectively in Summer

• Water your lawn well a day or two before application.
• Choose calm, dry days to apply your weed and feed, avoiding wind drift.
• Always follow directions precisely—overuse can burn your grass or pollute local waterways.
• Keep people and pets off the lawn until the product has been watered in and dried.
• Mow a few days before application but avoid mowing right after.

“Lawns thrive on proper timing—understand when and how to feed and treat to avoid common summer missteps.”

FAQs: Summer Lawn Fertilizer and Weed Killer

Is it safe to fertilize your lawn during hot summer months?

Yes, provided you choose a summer-formulated weed and feed for summer lawns and follow label directions, fertilizing is safe—even beneficial—in hot months. Avoid midday applications to reduce burn risk.

What fertilizer ratio is best for summer use?

The best lawn fertilizer and weed killer for summer typically uses an NPK ratio like 20-0-10 or a lower-nitrogen blend. This supports root strength and stress resistance without overstimulating rapid growth, a key summer lawn care tip shared by turf specialists.

How do you prevent burning your grass in summer?

• Apply when soil is moist and temperatures are moderate.
• Don’t exceed recommended application rates.
• Use slow-release nitrogen when possible.

What if my area has a nitrogen blackout period?

If you’re under a fertilizer blackout, focus on manual weed removal and mowing high. Natural weed preventers like corn gluten meal (Espoma) are generally allowed but always double-check with your municipality.

Can I combine fertilizing and weed killing in one application?

Absolutely! Modern products, like those reviewed above, excel at offering both nutrients and weed-killing action in a single step, simplifying your summer routine.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendations for a Lush, Weed-Free Summer Lawn

A beautiful summer lawn starts with choosing the best lawn fertilizer and weed killer for summer—tailored to your grass and climate. Those needing a proven, all-around solution should consider GreenView Broadleaf Weed Control Plus Lawn Food. For value, Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed is hard to beat, while organic gardeners will love the safety of Espoma Organic Weed Preventer. Remember to factor in your lawn’s species, specific weeds, and whether you want a synthetic or all-natural formula.

Ready for more garden success? Check out our expert picks for the best liquid lawn fertilizer and discover our top expandable garden hose recommendations for efficient watering. Invest in the right products, follow essential summer lawn care tips, and enjoy a lush, weed-free yard all season!