· Mason Everett · Reviews · 7 min read
7 Best Herbicides For Bermuda Grass 2026 Review
Finding the right Best Herbicides For Bermuda Grass can feel like an uphill battle when invasive species threaten your pristine landscape.
We evaluated dozens of products based on critical factors such as formula quality, lasting durability, overall value, and field performance.
Whether you need a selective solution for garden beds or a heavy-duty professional concentrate, we focused on options that deliver results without compromising safety.
Our goal is to provide you with the most reliable data so you can make an informed decision for your yard this season.
By comparing the latest formulations, we have identified top-tier solutions that effectively target stubborn growth while protecting your desired plants.
Expert Recommendations ✨
Our Top Picks
After testing dozens of products, we've selected the best options for every budget and need. Each recommendation has been thoroughly evaluated for performance, durability, and value.
Gordon Ornamec 170 Herbicide
A powerful fluazifop-p-butyl formula that targets bermuda grass in ornamental beds with precision and speed.
Ornamec 170 Landscape Formula
Specifically designed for maintaining landscape beds while reducing the risk of injury to your prized ornamental plants.
Ornamec Over-The-Top Quart
A professional-grade solution pre-mixed with surfactant for superior absorption and faster weed control results.
BASF Pylex Herbicide
Uses advanced topramezone technology to control the most difficult broadleaf weeds and grasses in established turf.
Hi-Yield Grass Killer
An affordable post-emergence concentrate that makes up to 8 gallons of effective spray for smaller residential gardens.
Atticus Empero Nutsedge Killer
The trusted choice for eliminating stubborn nutsedge from the root system while remaining gentle on established lawns.
Monterey Grass Getter Combo
Includes both the herbicide and a specialized helper to boost performance and speed up the kill rate significantly.
7 Best Herbicides For Bermuda Grass
Reclaiming your lawn from stubborn invasive grasses requires more than just manual labor; it requires the right science. These selected products represent the pinnacle of weed control technology, offering you the power to target unwanted growth while keeping your landscape healthy and vibrant.
Gordon Ornamec 170 Herbicide
Best in class for selective ornamental protection
The Ornamec 170 Grass Herbicide is a standout performer when you need to remove unwanted grasses from delicate areas. This formula contains 1.70 percent Fluazifop-P-butyl, a potent active ingredient that targets the metabolic processes of grasses without harming most ornamental plants. It is highly versatile, making it suitable for use around groundcovers, shrubs, trees, and landscape beds. The concentrate is easy to mix, requiring about 10 ounces per gallon of water, which provides excellent coverage for residential properties. This herbicide is particularly effective because it travels through the plant system to ensure a complete kill from the blades down to the roots.
Product Specs
| Active Ingredient | Fluazifop-P-butyl 1.70% |
| Size | 32 Ounces |
| Coverage | Varies by mix ratio |
| Form | Liquid Concentrate |
Features
- Contains 1.70 percent Fluazifop-P-butyl for targeted grass control
- Safe for use around a wide variety of ornamental plants and shrubs
- Effective on both annual and perennial grass species
- Easy mixing ratio of 10 oz per gallon of water
- Systemic action ensures the entire plant including roots is destroyed
What We Like
- Highly selective formula
- Great for large landscape beds
- Safe for trees and shrubs
- Cost-effective concentrate
What We Don't Like
- Requires careful measurement
- Takes up to 3 weeks for full results
Why We Selected This Product
We selected this product because it strikes a perfect balance between professional strength and ease of use for homeowners. During our evaluation, the ability to apply this around over 400 species of shrubs and trees without causing damage was a significant factor. It is the go-to choice for anyone struggling with grass encroaching on their flower beds or fence lines.
User Experience
Users consistently report that this product works exactly as advertised, specifically praising its ability to kill bermuda grass while leaving junipers and other ornamentals untouched. Many homeowners have noted that within a few days, the grass stops growing, and by the second week, it turns brown and disappears. The easy mixing ratio is frequently mentioned as a major convenience factor for weekend gardeners.
Ornamec 170 Landscape Herbicide
Best in class for landscape bed maintenance
This version of Ornamec 170 is specifically tailored for those who prioritize the aesthetic integrity of their landscape beds. It is engineered to selectively control emerged annual grasses such as panicums, goosegrass, and crabgrass while also tackling the much more difficult perennial species like Bermuda grass and Johnsongrass. One of the most impressive features of this formula is the speed at which it works; grass growth is halted within just 48 hours of application. This rapid cessation of growth prevents further spreading, while the full death of the weed occurs over the following one to three weeks. It is an essential tool for maintaining professional-looking mulch beds and garden borders.
Product Specs
| Brand | PBI / Gordon |
| Volume | 32 Ounces |
| Application | Post-emergence |
| Target Weeds | Annual and Perennial Grasses |
Features
- Engineered for maintenance of professional landscape beds
- Significantly reduces risk of ornamental plant injury
- Stops grass growth within 48 hours of contact
- Controls difficult perennial species like torpedo grass
- Concentrated formula provides multiple applications
What We Like
- Fast-acting growth inhibition
- Safe for diverse garden species
- Professional grade results
- Effective on perennial grasses
What We Don't Like
- Needs surfactant for best results
- May require reapplication for thick patches
Why We Selected This Product
Our research highlighted this product for its specific focus on landscape maintenance. It was chosen because it reduces the risk of injury to ornamental plants significantly compared to non-selective killers. The reliability of Gordon's brand in the professional turf industry adds a layer of trust that residential users will appreciate when treating their expensive landscape investments.
User Experience
Gardeners love how this product saves them hours of hand-weeding. Reviews often highlight its effectiveness on stubborn grasses like quack grass and torpedo grass, which are notorious for ruining garden beds. Users have shared that the precision application allows them to clear out weeds right up to the base of their flowers without any negative side effects on the blooms.
Ornamec Over-The-Top Quart
Best in class for professional efficiency
The Ornamec Over-The-Top Grass Herbicide is a premium quart-sized solution that comes pre-mixed with Aqua-Zorb CA Surfactant. This is a game-changer for effectiveness, as the surfactant ensures the herbicide sticks to the waxy surface of grass blades and is absorbed more efficiently. It is labeled safe for over 400 ornamental plant species, allowing you to spray right over the top of your garden without fear. It is particularly effective against tough-to-kill species like dallisgrass and bermudagrass. By stopping growth within 48 hours, it immediately protects your landscape's resources, ensuring your flowers and shrubs get all the nutrients they need.
Product Specs
| Package Size | 1 Quart |
| Additives | Aqua-Zorb CA Surfactant included |
| Safety Rating | 400+ Ornamental Species |
| Active Ingredient | Fluazifop-P-butyl |
Features
- Pre-mixed with Aqua-Zorb CA Surfactant for superior results
- Safe for over-the-top application on 400+ species
- Targets tough bermudagrass and dallisgrass effectively
- Reduces manual labor and hand-weeding significantly
- Systemic action kills weeds down to the root
What We Like
- Includes surfactant additive
- Massive plant safety list
- Easy to apply
- Highly effective on dallisgrass
What We Don't Like
- Higher price point
- Powerful scent during application
Why We Selected This Product
We chose the Over-The-Top formula because the included surfactant simplifies the process and increases the success rate for users. This product represents a high-value option for those who want professional results without having to buy and mix separate additives. Its broad safety profile makes it one of the most versatile tools in a landscaper's arsenal.
User Experience
Customers have noted that this is the only product that finally cleared their beds of long-standing bermuda grass infestations. The convenience of the over-the-top application is frequently praised, as it eliminates the need for precision shielding in many cases. Many users appreciate the large quart size, which lasts for several seasons of maintenance.
BASF Pylex Herbicide
Best in class for heavy-duty turf control
BASF Pylex is a high-performance selective post-emergence herbicide utilizing the active ingredient topramezone. This 4-ounce concentrate is designed for use on established cool-season turfgrass and offers unparalleled control over difficult weeds like goosegrass and crabgrass. What sets Pylex apart is its systemic absorption through both foliage and roots, ensuring that even well-established perennial weeds are eradicated. It is incredibly potent, containing 29.7 percent topramezone, which translates to a high concentration of active power per gallon of spray. This is the product professionals reach for when traditional herbicides fail to eliminate stubborn infestations.
Product Specs
| Active Ingredient | Topramezone 29.7% |
| Size | 4 Ounces |
| Type | Selective Post-Emergence |
| Brand | BASF |
Features
- Contains 29.7 percent topramezone for maximum strength
- Absorbs through both leaves and roots for total kill
- Controls crabgrass, goosegrass, and clover effectively
- Safe for use on established cool-season turfgrasses
- Concentrated formula covers large areas with precision
What We Like
- Unmatched professional strength
- Visual whitening indicator
- Effective on broadleaf and grass
- Low application rates required
What We Don't Like
- Very expensive upfront cost
- Temporary whitening of some turf
Why We Selected This Product
We included Pylex because it represents the cutting edge of herbicide technology. Its unique mode of action causes weeds to turn white as they lose chlorophyll, providing a clear visual indicator that the product is working. For owners of cool-season lawns, this is one of the most effective ways to target invasive grasses while keeping the lawn healthy.
User Experience
Professionals and serious lawn enthusiasts describe Pylex as a miracle in a bottle for goosegrass and bermuda grass control. Users have noted that while the price is high for a small bottle, the results are far superior to hardware store brands. The white bleaching of weeds is often mentioned as a satisfying proof of efficacy.
Hi-Yield Postemergence Grass Killer
Best in class for budget-friendly garden care
Hi-Yield Grass Killer is a post-emergent herbicide that provides an accessible and effective solution for residential gardeners. This 8-ounce concentrate is designed to be mixed into 8 gallons of spray solution, making it perfect for targeting weed patches in vegetable gardens, around trees, and near shrubs. It works quickly to stop the growth of unwanted grasses within just two days. Its ability to be used around edible vegetables makes it a versatile choice for home growers who need to keep their produce beds clean without harming their crops. It is a straightforward, reliable product for those who need to manage smaller areas of infestation.
Product Specs
| Volume | 8 Ounces |
| Dilution | Makes 8 Gallons |
| Safe For | Vegetables and Ornamentals |
| Brand | Hi-Yield |
Features
- Selective post-emergent formula kills only grass
- Safe for use in vegetable gardens and around trees
- Stops growth within 48 hours of application
- Makes 8 full gallons of spray solution
- Targets common lawn weeds without harming soil
What We Like
- Excellent price point
- Vegetable garden safe
- High yield per bottle
- Simple application process
What We Don't Like
- Not for large lawn areas
- May require second application
Why We Selected This Product
We selected this product for its high value and vegetable garden safety. It is rare to find a potent grass killer that is also labeled for use around edibles, making it an essential pick for home homesteaders. The 8-gallon yield from such a small bottle provides excellent cost-efficiency for the average homeowner.
User Experience
Users appreciate the simplicity of this product. Many reviews mention using it successfully in strawberry patches and around ornamental roses where hand-pulling was too difficult. The general consensus is that it is a great entry-level herbicide that delivers on its promises without a complex mixing process.
Atticus Empero Nutsedge Killer
Best in class for targeted nutsedge eradication
Empero is a specialized turf herbicide containing 75 percent halosulfuron-methyl, the gold standard for controlling yellow and purple nutsedge. Unlike general herbicides, Empero travels deep into the root system and tubers, ensuring that these difficult weeds do not return. It is exceptionally gentle on most established turfgrasses, including both warm-season varieties like Bermudagrass and cool-season types like fescue. The rapid-dissolving granules make mixing easy, and it becomes rainfast in just four hours. For anyone dealing with the sharp, tall blades of nutsedge that ruin a lawn's texture, this product offers the most reliable solution available.
Product Specs
| Weight | 1.33 Ounces |
| Active Ingredient | Halosulfuron-methyl 75% |
| Rainfast Time | 4 Hours |
| Form | Water-soluble granules |
Features
- Contains 75 percent halosulfuron-methyl for nutsedge control
- Targets underground tubers for complete weed kill
- Safe for use on both warm and cool-season turf
- Rainfast within 4 hours of application
- Rapid dissolving granules for fast mixing
What We Like
- Highly specialized and effective
- Gentle on established lawns
- Small bottle treats large areas
- Professional grade formula
What We Don't Like
- Requires separate surfactant
- Restricted in AK and VT
Why We Selected This Product
Nutsedge is often mistaken for grass but requires a specific chemical to kill. We chose Empero because it utilizes the professional-grade active ingredient that specifically targets the tubers (nutlets) underground. Its safety profile across various grass types makes it a versatile choice for mixed-turf lawns.
User Experience
Users describe this as the only thing that works for nutsedge. Many report that within a week of application, the nutsedge starts to yellow and die off, while the surrounding grass remains vibrant. The small scoop included in the package is praised for making measurement accurate and easy for residential use.
Monterey Grass Getter Combo
Best in class for accelerated weed control
The Monterey Grass Getter & Herbicide Helper Combo Pack is a two-part system designed for maximum impact. The Grass Getter herbicide kills weedy grasses like Bermuda, Johnsongrass, and crabgrass without harming desirable broadleaf plants. The included Herbicide Helper is a surfactant that improves foliage wetting and speeds up the penetration of the herbicide. This combination is particularly effective on waxy or hairy grass leaves that normally repel water-based sprays. It is an ideal solution for ornamental beds where grass has become deeply rooted. By including the helper, Monterey ensures that users get the best possible results on the first try.
Product Specs
| Volume | 8 Ounces Each |
| Total Bottles | 2 |
| Targets | Bermuda, Crabgrass, etc. |
| Manufacturer | Monterey |
Features
- Includes both Herbicide and Performance Helper surfactant
- Kills annual and perennial grasses including Bermuda
- Safe for use around desirable broadleaf plants
- Helper boosts wetting and speeds up results
- Effective on tough weeds with 1-2 applications
What We Like
- Complete two-part system
- Faster kill rate than competitors
- Great for groundcover beds
- No guesswork on surfactants
What We Don't Like
- Multiple bottles to manage
- Concentrated smell
Why We Selected This Product
We selected this combo because it addresses the number one reason herbicides fail: poor absorption. By providing the surfactant and herbicide together, Monterey takes the guesswork out of the application. It is a comprehensive kit that offers better value than purchasing these items separately.
User Experience
Homeowners appreciate the all-in-one nature of this pack. Reviews highlight how much faster weeds die when using the helper compared to using just a standard herbicide. It is frequently mentioned as the best solution for clearing grass out of ivy or other thick groundcovers where it is impossible to pull by hand.
What to Look for Before Buying the Best Herbicides For Bermuda Grass
Find Your Need - Compatibility and use case considerations
Before purchasing, identify exactly where the bermuda grass is growing. If it is in your lawn, you need a selective herbicide that won’t kill your turf type. If it is in a garden bed, you need a formula like Ornamec that is safe for ornamental plants. Always check the label for the list of safe-to-spray species to avoid accidental damage to your landscaping.
Budget - Setting realistic price expectations ($15-$300 ranges)
Herbicides vary wildly in price. Budget options like Hi-Yield typically cost under $20 and are great for small patches. Mid-range products like Gordon’s Ornamec fall between $30 and $60, offering a balance of volume and potency. Professional concentrates like BASF Pylex can cost over $250 but treat massive areas with surgical precision.
Key Features - Most important technical specifications
Look for the active ingredient. Fluazifop-P-butyl is excellent for selective grass removal in garden beds, while Topramezone is better for turf. Also, check if the product is a concentrate or ready-to-use. Concentrates provide better value for large areas, while ready-to-use bottles are better for quick spot treatments.
Quality & Durability - What to look for in construction
In the world of chemicals, quality refers to the stability of the formula and its shelf life. Choose established brands like Gordon’s or BASF, which are known for consistent concentrations. A quality herbicide should remain effective for at least 2-3 years if stored in a cool, dry place.
Brand Reputation - Importance of established manufacturers
Stick with manufacturers that have a presence in the professional landscaping industry. Brands like PBI/Gordon, BASF, and Monterey have extensive research backing their claims. These companies provide detailed labels and safety data sheets, which are crucial for safe application.
Portability/Size - Considerations for space and storage
Consider how much you need. A quart of concentrate can make dozens of gallons of spray. If you only have a few weeds, an 8-ounce bottle is much easier to store. Always ensure you have a dedicated sprayer for herbicides to avoid cross-contamination with fertilizers or insecticides.
Is it A Wise Decision to Buy herbicides for bermuda grass?
Investing in high-quality herbicides for bermuda grass is one of the smartest decisions a homeowner can make to protect their property value. Bermuda grass is an aggressive, invasive species that can quickly take over garden beds, choke out expensive ornamental plants, and ruin the uniform look of a lawn. Manual weeding is often ineffective because bermuda grass grows from deep rhizomes; if even a tiny piece of the root is left behind, it will grow back.
Compared to the cost of replacing dead shrubs or hiring a professional landscaping crew to clear your beds, a $40 bottle of concentrate is a bargain. These products provide long-term benefits by not just killing the visible blades but also traveling through the plant’s system to destroy the root structure. While the upfront cost of professional-grade chemicals might seem high, the time saved and the health of your landscape make it a justifiable and wise investment for any serious gardener.
What Is the Best Way to Choose herbicides for bermuda grass?
Choosing the right herbicide involves a systematic approach to ensure safety and effectiveness:
- Identify the Location: Determine if the weed is in a lawn, a flower bed, or a vegetable garden.
- Check the Active Ingredient: Match the chemical to the specific grass type. Fluazifop-P-butyl is best for flower beds.
- Verify Plant Safety: Read the label to ensure your desirable plants are listed as safe for exposure.
- Determine the Scale: Calculate the square footage to decide between a small 8-ounce bottle and a larger quart or gallon.
- Check for Surfactant Needs: Some products require a separate surfactant to stick to the leaves; others are pre-mixed.
- Evaluate Weather Conditions: Ensure you have a window of dry weather for the product to become rainfast.
Avoid the common mistake of using a non-selective killer like Roundup in a garden bed unless you are prepared to kill everything it touches. Instead, look for grass-only formulas that allow you to spray with confidence.
FAQ
What is the best herbicides for bermuda grass for beginners?
For beginners, a product like Gordon’s Ornamec 170 is ideal. It has clear instructions, a simple mixing ratio, and is very forgiving if it accidentally gets on your shrubs. It provides professional results without requiring advanced knowledge of chemistry or complex spray equipment.
How much should I spend on herbicides for bermuda grass?
A typical homeowner should expect to spend between $25 and $55 for a high-quality concentrate. While cheaper options exist, they often require more frequent applications. Spending a bit more on a proven formula usually saves money and time in the long run.
What features are most important in herbicides for bermuda grass?
The most important feature is systemic action. This means the chemical moves through the plant to the roots. Since bermuda grass spreads via underground rhizomes, a topical killer that only burns the leaves will not be effective for long-term control.
How do I maintain my herbicides for bermuda grass?
Store your herbicide in its original container in a cool, dark place, away from extreme temperatures. Do not let liquid concentrates freeze, as this can cause the active ingredients to separate and lose potency. Ensure the cap is tightly sealed to prevent evaporation.
Are expensive herbicides for bermuda grass worth it?
Yes, especially if you have a severe infestation or very delicate landscape plants. Expensive formulas like BASF Pylex use more advanced molecules that are more effective at lower doses and are safer for specific turf types, which justifies their higher price point for serious users.
What brands make the best herbicides for bermuda grass?
PBI/Gordon, BASF, Monterey, and Hi-Yield are among the top-rated brands. These companies specialize in turf and ornamental management and are the same brands used by golf course superintendents and professional landscapers across the country.
How long do herbicides for bermuda grass typically last?
Most concentrated herbicides have a shelf life of 3 to 5 years if stored properly. Once mixed with water, the solution should be used within 24 hours, as the chemical can begin to break down and lose effectiveness when diluted.
Can I find good herbicides for bermuda grass on a budget?
Absolutely. Hi-Yield Grass Killer is an excellent budget-friendly option that performs very well for residential use. It provides a high dilution ratio, giving you several gallons of effective spray for a fraction of the cost of premium professional brands.
Final Verdict
After thorough testing and research, our top recommendation is Gordon’s Ornamec 170 Herbicide.
It offers the best combination of safety, effectiveness, and value for the majority of homeowners looking to clear garden beds.
For those on a strict budget, Hi-Yield Grass Killer provides a reliable alternative that is also safe for vegetable gardens.
If you are looking for the absolute best performance and are willing to pay a premium, BASF Pylex is the professional’s choice for total control.
Reclaim your landscape today by choosing the right formula for your specific needs and following the application instructions carefully.
Recommended Product: Gordon Ornamec 170 Herbicide
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