If you’re struggling with black medic in your garden or lawn, choosing the Best Herbicide for Black Medic is essential to effectively manage and control its growth.

Black medic (Medicago lupulina) is a fast-growing, low-lying legume that is often considered a weed in lawns and gardens.

It is known for its ability to quickly spread and compete with desirable plants

Black medic is particularly challenging to control because it has deep taproots and can thrive in various soil conditions. The right herbicide will target its growth without harming surrounding plants.

In this article, we will review the best herbicides for controlling black medic and provide tips on how to apply them for maximum effectiveness.

10 Best Herbicides for Black Medic

1. Roundup Weed and Grass Killer

Roundup Weed and Grass Killer, containing glyphosate, is a non-selective herbicide that works effectively on black medic. It inhibits the plant’s ability to produce essential proteins, leading to the plant’s death. Roundup is most effective when applied directly to the foliage of black medic during the active growing season.

For best results, apply Roundup when the black medic is actively growing, typically in the spring or early summer. Be cautious when applying near desirable plants, as Roundup can damage anything it touches.

2. Ortho Weed B Gon

Ortho Weed B Gon is another selective herbicide that targets a wide range of broadleaf weeds, including black medic. It contains the active ingredient 2,4-D, which interferes with the growth processes of weeds.

Ortho Weed B Gon is effective when applied directly to the leaves of black medic. It can be used in lawns without harming most grass species, making it a good option for homeowners looking to control black medic in their lawns.

3. Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed

Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed is a combination fertilizer and herbicide designed to control broadleaf weeds, including black medic, while feeding your lawn. It contains the active ingredient 2,4-D, which is effective at targeting and controlling black medic.

Scotts Weed and Feed is applied to lawns, and it works best when black medic is actively growing. This product not only kills weeds but also nourishes the grass, leading to a healthier lawn.

4. Image Weed Killer

Image Weed Killer is an excellent herbicide for controlling black medic, as it specifically targets broadleaf weeds while being safe for most grasses. It contains the active ingredient imazethapyr, which is effective at controlling tough weeds like black medic.

Image Weed Killer can be applied during the growing season when black medic is in its active growth phase. It provides fast-acting results, helping to prevent the weed from spreading further.

5. Atrazine

Atrazine is a selective herbicide that is particularly effective on broadleaf weeds, including black medic. It works by inhibiting photosynthesis, which eventually kills the weeds.

Atrazine is most effective when applied during the early stages of weed growth. It can be used on lawns and turf but should be applied carefully to avoid damage to other plants.

6. Preen Weed Preventer

Preen Weed Preventer is a pre-emergent herbicide that can be used to prevent black medic from sprouting. It does not kill existing weeds but is effective in stopping weed seeds from germinating.

For best results, apply Preen Weed Preventer early in the spring before black medic seeds have a chance to sprout. It is ideal for use in garden beds, lawns, and around trees and shrubs.

7. Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns

Spectracide Weed Stop for Lawns is another effective option for controlling black medic. It contains the active ingredient 2,4-D and is formulated to kill a broad spectrum of broadleaf weeds without harming grass.

Spectracide Weed Stop can be applied directly to the foliage of black medic. It is most effective when applied during the active growing season for black medic.

8. Green Light Weed & Grass Killer

Green Light Weed & Grass Killer is a non-selective herbicide that can help control black medic and other weeds. It contains glyphosate, which kills the entire plant from the roots up.

Green Light Weed & Grass Killer is effective when applied to actively growing black medic plants. It should be used carefully around desirable plants, as it is non-selective.

9. Weed-B-Gon Max

Weed-B-Gon Max is a powerful herbicide that targets broadleaf weeds like black medic. It contains the active ingredient dicamba, which disrupts the growth of the weed and prevents it from spreading.

For best results, apply Weed-B-Gon Max during the active growing season when black medic is most susceptible to herbicides.

10. Hi-Yield 2,4-D Selective Weed Killer

Hi-Yield 2,4-D Selective Weed Killer is a selective herbicide that effectively controls broadleaf weeds, including black medic. It works by interrupting the plant’s growth processes and preventing it from spreading.

Hi-Yield 2,4-D can be applied directly to the foliage of black medic. It is best used during the growing season for optimal results.

Tips for Choosing the Best Herbicide for Black Medic

• Look for herbicides that specifically target broadleaf weeds like black medic.
• Choose a selective herbicide if you want to protect your grass while controlling weeds.
• Consider pre-emergent herbicides if you want to prevent black medic from germinating.
• Apply herbicides when black medic is actively growing for the best results.
• Be cautious with non-selective herbicides, as they can harm surrounding plants.
• Ensure the herbicide is safe to use in your area and won’t cause harm to pets or wildlife.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe and effective application.

Conclusion

Controlling black medic can be challenging, but with the right herbicide, it is entirely possible. Products like Roundup, Ortho Weed B Gon, and Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed offer effective solutions for managing black medic and other broadleaf weeds.

Applying herbicides during the growing season will ensure the best chance of success.

Whether you’re dealing with black medic in your lawn or garden, the key to effective control is selecting the right product for your needs and applying it properly. Follow the guidelines provided, and you can enjoy a weed-free landscape in no time!