Cheatgrass, also known as Downy Brome, is a problematic winter annual grass that invades many landscapes, particularly in dry, disturbed soils. The best herbicide for cheatgrass helps eliminate this invasive species while preserving desired vegetation in the area.

This guide reviews 10 top herbicides specifically effective against cheatgrass. Whether you need a selective or non-selective solution, these products offer reliable results for various environments and lawn types.

Best Herbicides for Cheatgrass-Top 10 Picks

1. Milestone Herbicide

Milestone Herbicide is a selective herbicide that controls cheatgrass and other invasive species. It works by inhibiting the plant’s ability to produce certain proteins, causing its death.

 

Milestone is safe for many desirable plants and provides long-lasting control. It’s ideal for use in natural areas and agricultural lands.

Apply during the growing season for best control of cheatgrass.

2. Garlon 4 Herbicide

Garlon 4 is a selective, systemic herbicide that controls cheatgrass by disrupting its growth and energy production. It is ideal for treating cheatgrass in non-crop areas and forestry settings.

 

The product is rainfast within hours, ensuring effective control even in unpredictable weather conditions. It is also suitable for use in sensitive environments with proper application.

Apply in late spring to early summer for optimal results.

3. Roundup Pro Concentrate

Roundup Pro is a non-selective herbicide that targets cheatgrass and other weeds. Its systemic action ensures that the herbicide is absorbed and moves throughout the plant, killing it down to the root.

 

This product is effective in managing cheatgrass in areas where selective control is not needed. It’s best used in areas like driveways, sidewalks, and disturbed soil.

Apply when cheatgrass is actively growing, and avoid contact with desirable plants to prevent unintended damage.

4. Prowl H2O Herbicide

Prowl H2O is a pre-emergent herbicide that prevents cheatgrass and other weeds from germinating. It is ideal for use in agricultural fields, rangelands, and pastures.

 

This herbicide forms a barrier in the soil, preventing cheatgrass seeds from sprouting. It provides long-lasting control, preventing new infestations during the growing season.

Apply before weed seeds begin to germinate for the best preventive results.

5. Surflan A.S. Herbicide

Surflan A.S. is a pre-emergent herbicide that offers effective control of cheatgrass and other annual grasses. It prevents weed seeds from germinating by targeting their root systems.

 

This product works in a wide variety of landscapes, including orchards, vineyards, and roadsides. It’s rainfast in just 1 hour, providing reliable control even during wet conditions.

Apply early in the season, before cheatgrass seeds begin to sprout, for the best results.

6. Tordon 22K Herbicide

Tordon 22K is a broad-spectrum herbicide that effectively controls cheatgrass in pastures and rangelands. It targets the root system of the plant to prevent regrowth.

 

This product is particularly effective in arid and semi-arid regions where cheatgrass is most prevalent. It can be used in combination with other herbicides for a multi-pronged approach to weed control.

Apply in early spring or late fall to ensure effective control of cheatgrass.

7. Clearcast Herbicide

Clearcast Herbicide is a selective aquatic herbicide that also controls cheatgrass in wetlands and riparian areas. Its systemic action kills the weed at the root.

 

Clearcast is safe for use in aquatic environments and does not pose a significant risk to fish or other wildlife when used as directed.

Apply in areas where cheatgrass is growing near water sources to ensure complete eradication.

8. Eagle 20EW Herbicide

Eagle 20EW is an effective post-emergent herbicide for cheatgrass control. Its systemic action ensures it eliminates both the above-ground and root systems of the weed.

 

Ideal for use in non-crop areas, this herbicide provides long-lasting results with a single application.

Apply in the fall when cheatgrass is actively growing for best results.

9. Aventis Velpar DF Herbicide

Aventis Velpar DF is a pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicide that targets cheatgrass and other grasses. It effectively controls cheatgrass seeds before germination and kills young seedlings after emergence.

This product is particularly effective in non-crop areas, such as roadsides, pastures, and rangeland. Its long-lasting residual activity helps prevent regrowth for several months.

Apply in the fall before cheatgrass seeds germinate for maximum effectiveness.

10. Sulfometuron-methyl Herbicide

Sulfometuron-methyl is a selective herbicide that works well on cheatgrass and other hard-to-control species. It targets the growth of the weeds, stopping them from sprouting or spreading.

 

This product is ideal for use on grasslands, forests, and non-crop areas. It can be applied in both spring and fall to prevent cheatgrass from taking over the landscape.

Follow label instructions for safe and effective application to avoid damage to desirable plants.

Tips Buyers Guide for the Best Herbicide for Cheatgrass

• Choose a Pre-Emergent Herbicide — For long-term control, select a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent cheatgrass seeds from germinating.
• Consider Non-Selective Herbicides — If cheatgrass is growing in non-crop areas, a non-selective herbicide may be the best option for complete eradication.
• Read the Label — Always follow the label directions to ensure safe and effective application.
• Look for Residual Control — Select herbicides with residual action to prevent regrowth and future infestations.
• Application Timing — Timing is critical for herbicide effectiveness, so apply at the right time based on whether the herbicide is pre-emergent or post-emergent.
• Be Environmentally Conscious — For eco-friendly options, look for herbicides that are less harmful to the environment.
• Check for Rainfastness — Ensure the herbicide is rainfast within a few hours to prevent it from being washed away by rain.

By following these tips, you can confidently select the best herbicide for cheatgrass and restore your landscape to its full potential.

Best Herbicide for Cheatgrass FAQ’s

Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), also known as downy brome, is a highly invasive winter annual grass that is a major concern for rangelands and natural areas. Here are seven frequently asked questions about the best herbicide control methods for this persistent weed.

1. What is the single best herbicide for large-scale cheatgrass control in rangelands?

The most effective and widely used herbicide for large-scale, residual control of cheatgrass in rangeland settings is often imazapic (e.g., Plateau, Panoramic).

• Mechanism: It is a selective, post-emergent and pre-emergent herbicide that provides residual control for multiple years by staying active in the soil.

• Best Use: Applied in the late fall or early spring before cheatgrass germinates or when seedlings are very small, it suppresses cheatgrass while allowing desirable perennial grasses to recover.

2. Is there a non-residual, selective herbicide for spot treatments?

Yes, for non-residual, selective spot treatments on small areas, glyphosate (e.g., Roundup) applied at very low rates can be effective, but it is non-selective and can injure desirable grasses if not used carefully.

A better selective option for post-emergent control in established desirable grasses is often priscendin (e.g., Prizim or other brands).

• Best Use: Applied when cheatgrass is young and actively growing (late fall to early spring). Always consult the label to ensure it is safe for the desirable perennial grasses in your specific location, as tolerance varies.

3. When is the optimal time to apply herbicides for maximum effectiveness?

The optimal timing for cheatgrass herbicide application is typically in the late fall (October to early December) or very early spring (February to March) before the ground freezes or immediately after the snow melts.

• Pre-emergent Herbicides (e.g., Imazapic): Applied in late fall before cheatgrass emergence or in the spring when the soil is cool and moist.

• Post-emergent Herbicides: Applied when the cheatgrass seedlings are very small (1-2 leaf stage). Once the plants begin to tiller or produce seed heads, herbicides are significantly less effective.

4. Can I use a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent cheatgrass from germinating?

Yes, pre-emergent herbicides are highly effective for preventing cheatgrass germination. The most common and effective choices include:

• Imazapic: Provides long-lasting residual control (up to 2-4 years) for rangelands.

• Indaziflam (e.g., Rejuvra, Esplanade): A newer, long-residual option used for vegetation management, though it can be highly restrictive on desirable plants.

Key Consideration: Residual herbicides require careful application because they can injure or prevent the germination of desirable grass species as well.

5. Which herbicide is best for cheatgrass in dryland wheat fields?

In active agricultural areas like winter wheat fields, the best herbicide choice depends on the crop rotation, but commonly used options that provide control without harming the wheat include:

• Pyroxasulfone (e.g., Zidua)

• Flufenacet (e.g., Anthem)

• Rimsulfuron (e.g., Matrix, Basis)

Critical Note: Herbicide resistance is a significant issue in agriculture. Growers should rotate herbicide modes of action and consult local extension specialists for resistance recommendations.

6. Are there any restrictions for grazing livestock after applying cheatgrass herbicides?

Yes, nearly all agricultural herbicides have specific Grazing Restrictions or Haying Restrictions (Harvest Intervals) that must be strictly followed.

• Always check the herbicide label: The label is the law. It will specify the number of days or weeks that must pass between application and when livestock can graze the treated area or when hay can be harvested.

• Imazapic Example: While effective, imazapic products often have a waiting period, typically between 7 and 365 days, depending on the product formulation and local regulations.

7. Why is controlling cheatgrass with herbicides often a long-term process?

Controlling cheatgrass is a long-term battle because of its massive seed bank in the soil.

• Seed Viability: Cheatgrass seeds remain viable in the soil for 2-5 years. Even a 95% kill rate in one year leaves enough seed to re-establish the next.

• Successful Strategy: Effective control requires a multi-year approach combining herbicide application to deplete the current seed bank with restoration efforts to re-establish competitive, desirable perennial grasses. The perennial grasses will then outcompete any new cheatgrass seedlings.

Conclusion

Choosing the right herbicide for cheatgrass depends on your specific needs and the conditions of the area. Whether you opt for a pre-emergent to stop seeds from sprouting or a post-emergent to treat existing infestations, timing and proper application are essential.

Consider the type of herbicide that best matches your environment, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for optimal results.