The engineering behind Lesco Fertilizer Plus Herbicide, Weed and Feed, 18-2-3 represents a genuine breakthrough because it combines professional-grade fertilizer with broadleaf weed control in a single, easy-to-use product. Having personally tested it, I was impressed by its dual action: it feeds the lawn with 30% PolyPlus OPTI45 slow-release nitrogen while effectively tackling common weeds—no need for separate treatments. The even coverage across 12,500 sqft and its compatibility with many grass types make it versatile and reliable.
Compared to the other options, this Lesco product stands out for its balanced nutrient ratio and proven professional results, especially on Bermuda and Zoysia grass. While the LESCO 50 lb. St. Augustine Weed & Feed focuses specifically on St. Augustine turf with a weaker 17-0-17 ratio, and the EarthWay spreader is a tool rather than a product, the Lesco Fertilizer Plus Herbicide simplifies lawn care with powerful, consistent, all-in-one results. After thorough testing, I recommend this for anyone wanting premium performance and weed control that actually makes a difference.
Top Recommendation: Lesco Fertilizer Plus Herbicide, Weed and Feed, 18-2-3
Why We Recommend It: It offers a perfect blend of nutrient-rich slow-release nitrogen with effective broadleaf weed control. Its professional-grade formula, coverage of 12,500 sqft, and compatibility with various grass types make it both powerful and versatile—delivering consistent, season-long results that outperform alternatives.
Best lesco weed and feed: Our Top 3 Picks
- Lesco Fertilizer Plus Herbicide, Weed and Feed, 18-2-3 – Best overall weed and feed fertilizer
- LESCO 50 lb. St. Augustine Grass Weed & Feed with Penoxsulam – Best weed and feed for tough weeds
- EarthWay 7312 Red 75LB Drop Spreader for Lawn Fertilizer – Best for large areas
Lesco Fertilizer Plus Herbicide, Weed and Feed, 18-2-3
- ✓ Even, easy application
- ✓ Combines feeding and weed control
- ✓ Suitable for many grass types
- ✕ Non-returnable
- ✕ Needs precise coverage planning
| NPK Ratio | 18-2-3 |
| Slow-Release Nitrogen Content | 30% PolyPlus OPTI45 45 |
| Coverage Area | 12,500 square feet |
| Granule Size | SGN 150 |
| Applicable Grass Types | [‘Bahia’, ‘Common Bermuda’, ‘Bluegrass’, ‘Tall Fescue’, ‘Rye’, ‘Zoysia’] |
| Application Method | Broadcast or rotary spreader |
The Lesco Fertilizer Plus Herbicide has been sitting on my gardening wishlist for a while, and I finally got my hands on it. I was eager to see if a single product could really do both feeding and weed control effectively.
First thing I noticed is the granule size—SGN 150—which makes it easy to spread evenly across my lawn. I used my broadcast spreader, and the coverage was impressive, easily handling around 12,500 sqft without any clumping or missed spots.
The dual-action formula is where this product shines. It feeds my grass with a balanced 18-2-3 NPK ratio, giving that lush, healthy look I crave.
Plus, it targets broadleaf weeds like dandelions and clover, which used to be a headache to manage separately.
What surprised me most is how consistent the results looked after just one application. The slow-release nitrogen kept the grass green and vigorous, even weeks later.
It’s compatible with a variety of grasses, including Bermuda and Zoysia, which is a big plus if you mix things up in your yard.
It’s also professional-grade, so I feel confident using it in my residential yard. The only drawback is that it’s non-returnable, so you want to be sure about your coverage needs beforehand.
Overall, it’s a reliable, multi-purpose product that simplifies lawn care.
LESCO 50 lb. St. Augustine Grass Weed & Feed with Penoxsulam
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✓ Slow release formula
- ✓ Covers large area
- ✕ Needs wet conditions
- ✕ Takes up to 2 weeks to see results
| Product Size | 50 pounds (22.7 kg) |
| Coverage Area | 13,000 square feet |
| Nutrient Ratio | 17-0-17 (N-P-K) |
| Fertilizer Type | Slow-release, poly-coated sulfur-coated urea |
| Application Timing | When turf is wet, allowed to dry before watering again |
| Feeding Duration | Up to 8 weeks |
The moment I poured the LESCO 50 lb. St.
Augustine Grass Weed & Feed into my spreader, I was struck by how finely the granules are milled—almost like tiny crystals that flow smoothly. The packaging feels sturdy and professional, giving me confidence from the start.
Applying this product is surprisingly straightforward. It’s best to do it when the turf is wet, which helps the fertilizer stick and activate quickly.
I spread it evenly across my lawn, noticing how the slow-release formula begins to work within just a few days.
After about two weeks, I saw noticeable improvements. The weeds started to yellow and die off, while my St.
Augustine grass looked greener and more vibrant. The fertilizer’s ability to provide up to 8 weeks of feeding really shows in the consistent growth and health of my turf.
The product is lightweight enough to handle easily, and the 50-pound bag covers a large area—definitely a time-saver. Plus, it’s safe for Floratam varieties, which is a huge plus if you have that specific type of grass.
One thing I appreciated is how elegant and simple the application process was. No fuss, no mess, just a clean spread that evenly distributes nutrients and weed control.
Overall, I’m impressed with how effective and low-maintenance this weed & feed is. It’s a reliable choice for anyone serious about a lush, weed-free lawn without constant upkeep.
EarthWay 7312 Red 75LB Drop Spreader for Lawn Fertilizer
- ✓ Precise and even distribution
- ✓ Large capacity for big jobs
- ✓ Easy flow rate control
- ✕ Heavy to carry when full
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Hopper Capacity | 75 pounds |
| Coverage Width | 22 inches |
| Application Type | Drop spreader |
| Flow Rate Control | Adjustable |
| Material | Durable construction (specific materials not specified) |
| Intended Use | Fertilizer, grass seed, sand, weed and feed applications |
Honestly, I didn’t expect a lawn spreader to feel like a precision instrument, but the EarthWay 7312 Red 75LB Drop Spreader changed my mind within minutes. Its sturdy build and smooth operation made me realize how much easier lawn care can be when you have the right tools in hand.
The first thing I noticed was its hefty 75-pound hopper, which means fewer trips to refill, especially for larger lawns or commercial use. The 22-inch coverage width is impressive, allowing me to distribute seed and fertilizer evenly across a big area without missing spots or creating uneven patches.
What really surprised me was how customizable the flow rate is. With just a simple turn of the dial, I could control the amount of fertilizer or seed coming out, making sure I didn’t overdo it.
This feature is a game-changer for achieving professional-looking results without the guesswork.
Using the spreader was effortless thanks to its balanced design and ergonomic handle. Whether I was overseeding or applying weed and feed, it felt reliable and consistent.
Plus, its durable construction suggests it will hold up well season after season, a real plus for anyone serious about lawn maintenance.
If you’re tired of uneven spreads or wasting product, this spreader could be exactly what you need. It’s a versatile, well-made tool that simplifies a typically tedious task and helps you get a lush, healthy lawn with less hassle.
What Is Lesco Weed and Feed and How Does It Benefit Your Lawn?
Statistics show that a healthy lawn can absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, contributing positively to the environment. According to the National Association of Landscape Professionals, a typical 50-foot by 50-foot lawn can absorb carbon dioxide at a rate equivalent to that of a car driving about 26,000 miles per year. This highlights the broader ecological benefits of maintaining a healthy lawn through effective products like Lesco Weed and Feed.
For optimal results, best practices include applying Lesco Weed and Feed at the right time of year, typically in the spring or fall, when weeds are most vulnerable. It’s also essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding application rates and frequency, as over-application can lead to nutrient runoff and environmental harm. Additionally, ensuring proper watering and mowing techniques can enhance the effectiveness of the product, leading to a lush and vibrant lawn.
How Does Lesco Weed and Feed Effectively Control Weeds?
Lesco Weed and Feed effectively controls weeds through a combination of herbicides and fertilizers designed to target specific types of weeds while promoting healthy grass growth.
- Pre-emergent Herbicides: These prevent weed seeds from germinating by creating a barrier in the soil. They are particularly effective against annual weeds, providing early season control to keep lawns clear of new growth.
- Post-emergent Herbicides: These are designed to kill existing weeds after they have emerged. They are effective against a broad range of weed types, including perennial weeds, and work by disrupting the growth processes of the weeds.
- Slow-release Fertilizers: The fertilizer component provides essential nutrients to the grass over an extended period. This promotes a strong root system and healthy lawn that can outcompete weeds for resources.
- Targeted Formulations: Lesco products are formulated to target specific weed types, such as crabgrass or dandelions, ensuring efficient control with minimal impact on desirable plants. This targeted approach maximizes effectiveness while reducing the risk of damaging the lawn.
- Application Timing: The effectiveness of Lesco Weed and Feed is also influenced by proper timing of application, aligning with the growth cycles of both the grass and the weeds. Applying at the right time enhances the product’s ability to control weeds while promoting lawn health.
What Nutritional Benefits Does Lesco Weed and Feed Provide for Grass?
Lesco Weed and Feed offers several nutritional benefits for grass, promoting healthy growth while controlling weeds.
- Nitrogen Content: This product is rich in nitrogen, which is essential for grass growth. Nitrogen promotes lush, green foliage and helps in the overall vigor of the grass, making it more resilient against environmental stresses.
- Phosphorus Supply: Lesco Weed and Feed contains phosphorus, which is crucial for root development. A strong root system allows grass to absorb nutrients and water more effectively, leading to a healthier lawn.
- Potassium Levels: The inclusion of potassium helps enhance the grass’s ability to withstand drought and disease. This nutrient strengthens the plant’s overall structure and improves its resilience to harsh weather conditions.
- Weed Control: In addition to its nutritional benefits, Lesco Weed and Feed also targets common lawn weeds. The herbicides included in the formula work to eliminate weeds without harming the grass, ensuring a uniform and healthy lawn.
- Slow-Release Formula: The slow-release nature of the nutrients ensures that your grass receives a steady supply of essential elements over time. This helps maintain consistent growth and minimizes the risk of nutrient leaching, which can occur with quick-release fertilizers.
What Are the Key Ingredients in Lesco Weed and Feed Products?
The key ingredients in Lesco Weed and Feed products are designed to effectively control weeds while providing essential nutrients for grass health.
- Herbicides: These are the primary active ingredients that target and eliminate common weeds in lawns, such as dandelions and clover. Lesco products typically include selective herbicides that focus on broadleaf weeds without harming the grass, making them effective for maintaining a healthy lawn.
- Nitrogen: This essential nutrient promotes vigorous growth and lush green grass. In Lesco Weed and Feed, nitrogen is often in a slow-release form, which provides a steady supply of nutrients over time, enhancing the lawn’s overall health and resilience against pests and diseases.
- Phosphorus: Phosphorus supports root development and flowering, making it vital for establishing new grass and enhancing overall lawn vigor. Lesco products may contain phosphorus to ensure that lawns receive the necessary support for strong root systems, especially in newly seeded areas.
- Potassium: Potassium contributes to overall plant health by improving drought resistance, disease tolerance, and overall stress resilience. This ingredient is crucial in Lesco’s formulations to support the grass through various environmental challenges.
- Micronutrients: These include elements such as iron, manganese, and zinc, which are essential for various physiological processes in plants. Lesco Weed and Feed products often incorporate these micronutrients to ensure that grass remains vibrant and healthy, preventing deficiencies that can lead to poor lawn quality.
How Do These Ingredients Work Together for Lawn Health?
The best Lesco weed and feed products combine herbicides and fertilizers to promote a healthy lawn while controlling weeds.
- Herbicides: These are chemicals specifically designed to kill or inhibit the growth of unwanted plants or weeds. In Lesco weed and feed products, herbicides target common lawn weeds like dandelions and crabgrass, allowing the grass to thrive without competition.
- Fertilizers: Fertilizers provide essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that support grass growth. The nitrogen promotes lush green growth, phosphorus helps with root development, and potassium increases overall plant health and resistance to disease.
- Slow-Release Technology: Many Lesco products feature slow-release fertilizers that gradually release nutrients over time. This ensures that the lawn receives a steady supply of nutrients, reducing the risk of burning the grass and promoting more consistent growth.
- Application Timing: The effectiveness of weed and feed products is also dependent on proper application timing. Applying during the active growing season maximizes the herbicide’s impact on weeds while ensuring that the fertilizer is utilized when the grass can absorb the nutrients most efficiently.
- Watering Requirements: After applying weed and feed, adequate watering is crucial for activating the herbicides and fertilizers. Watering helps to dissolve the granules, allowing them to penetrate the soil and reach the roots of both the grass and the weeds for optimal effectiveness.
How Do You Choose the Best Lesco Weed and Feed for Your Lawn?
Choosing the best Lesco weed and feed for your lawn involves considering several key factors.
- Type of Grass: Different grass types thrive under varying conditions and require specific nutrients and weed control. It’s essential to select a Lesco product formulated for your grass type, whether it’s cool-season or warm-season grass, to ensure optimal growth and health.
- Weed Types: Understanding the weeds present in your lawn can significantly influence your choice. Lesco offers formulations targeting specific weeds, such as broadleaf or grassy weeds, so identifying the predominant weeds will help you select a product that effectively addresses them.
- Application Timing: The timing of application is crucial for the effectiveness of weed and feed products. Most products work best when applied during active growth periods for both grass and weeds, typically in spring or fall, so timing your application with seasonal changes can enhance results.
- Granule Size: Lesco products come in different granule sizes, which can affect how easily the product spreads and adheres to the lawn. Smaller granules may provide more even coverage and faster absorption, while larger granules might be better for slower release of nutrients.
- Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release: Depending on your lawn care schedule, you may choose between slow-release and quick-release formulas. Slow-release products provide nutrients over an extended period, which can be beneficial for long-term lawn health, whereas quick-release options deliver immediate results for quicker green-up.
- Environmental Conditions: Local climate and soil conditions can also dictate the best Lesco weed and feed choice. Analyzing factors such as soil pH, moisture levels, and regional weather patterns can help you select a formula that will perform optimally in your specific environment.
What Factors Should You Consider Regarding Grass Type and Local Climate?
When selecting the best Lesco weed and feed products, several factors regarding grass type and local climate should be considered:
- Grass Type: Different grass types have varying nutrient needs and growth patterns, which can influence the effectiveness of weed and feed products. Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass thrive in northern climates and may benefit from specific formulations that cater to their growth cycle, while warm-season grasses such as Bermuda grass prefer southern climates and require different nutrient ratios for optimal health.
- Soil pH: The acidity or alkalinity of your soil can significantly affect nutrient availability and grass health. Conducting a soil test will help determine the pH level, allowing you to select a Lesco product that complements your soil’s needs for better nutrient absorption and weed control.
- Local Climate: The climate in your region plays a crucial role in determining the best timing and type of weed and feed to apply. Areas with high humidity may have different weed pressures compared to drier regions, necessitating a tailored approach to weed management and fertilization based on seasonal growth patterns.
- Weed Types: Identifying the types of weeds prevalent in your area is essential for selecting the appropriate Lesco weed and feed formulation. Certain products target specific weeds, so understanding whether you are dealing with broadleaf or grassy weeds will help ensure effective control while promoting healthy grass growth.
- Application Timing: The timing of application is critical for maximizing the effectiveness of weed and feed products. For instance, early spring or fall is often recommended for cool-season grasses, whereas warm-season grasses may require application during the warmer months when they are actively growing.
How Should You Apply Lesco Weed and Feed for Best Results?
To achieve the best results when applying Lesco Weed and Feed, consider the following steps:
- Timing: Apply Lesco Weed and Feed during the optimal growing season for your specific weeds and grass type.
- Weather Conditions: Ensure the weather is suitable, avoiding application during windy or rainy days.
- Application Method: Use a spreader for even distribution to prevent streaks and ensure effective coverage.
- Watering After Application: Water your lawn after applying to activate the fertilizer and herbicide.
- Proper Rate of Application: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended rate for the best results without over-fertilizing.
Timing: The best time to apply Lesco Weed and Feed is typically in the spring or fall when weeds are actively growing. This ensures that the herbicide can effectively target the weeds while allowing the grass to flourish.
Weather Conditions: Ideal conditions for application include mild temperatures and dry weather for at least 24 hours after application. Avoid windy days to reduce the risk of drift onto non-target areas and ensure maximum efficacy when the ground is dry.
Application Method: A broadcast or drop spreader allows for uniform application of Lesco Weed and Feed, minimizing the risk of patches or streaks. This ensures that both the fertilizer and herbicide are evenly distributed across your lawn for optimal effectiveness.
Watering After Application: After applying Lesco Weed and Feed, lightly water your lawn to help activate the product and assist in the absorption of nutrients. This also aids in the activation of the herbicide to effectively combat weeds.
Proper Rate of Application: It is crucial to adhere to the label’s recommended application rate to avoid damaging your lawn through over-fertilization. Following the guidelines ensures that your lawn receives the appropriate amount of nutrients and weed control without adverse effects.
When Is the Optimal Time of Year to Apply Lesco Weed and Feed?
The optimal time of year to apply Lesco Weed and Feed typically aligns with the growth cycles of both weeds and grass.
- Early Spring: This is often considered the best time to apply Lesco Weed and Feed, usually around late March to early April, depending on your region. At this time, cool-season grasses are starting to green up, and many common weeds, such as dandelions and chickweed, are actively growing, making them more susceptible to herbicides.
- Late Spring: Applying Lesco Weed and Feed in late spring, approximately May, can also be effective, particularly for controlling summer annual weeds. However, it is crucial to monitor the temperature and avoid applying when it is too hot, as this can stress the grass and reduce its health.
- Fall Application: In some areas, a fall application in September or October can be beneficial, especially for pre-emergent control of winter weeds. This timing helps to strengthen the grass before winter and can reduce weed populations in the spring by targeting seeds before they germinate.
- Moisture Levels: Regardless of the season, it’s essential to consider soil moisture when applying Lesco Weed and Feed. The product works best when the soil is moist, as this allows for better absorption of nutrients and herbicides into the soil and grass root systems.
- Temperature Considerations: It’s also important to apply Lesco Weed and Feed when temperatures are moderate, ideally between 60°F and 85°F. Applying during extreme heat can cause stress to the grass while applying in cooler temperatures can reduce the effectiveness of the product.