8 Best Lawn Insecticides

Last Updated: February 6, 2026

Nothing ruins a beautiful lawn faster than a hidden insect infestation. You water consistently, mow regularly, fertilize on schedule. if you still notice brown patches spreading across your grass. By the time you see the damage, thousands of grubs, chinch bugs, or other pests are already feasting below the surface.

We’ve tested and researched the most effective lawn insecticides available in 2026 to help you choose the right product for your specific pest problem. Whether you’re dealing with grubs destroying your roots, fire ants building mounds, or mosquitoes making your yard unbearable, we’ve got you covered.

Quick Verdict: Dylox 6.2 is our top pick for fast grub control (works in 24 hours), while Bifen IT offers the best overall value for controlling 75+ pest species. For convenience, Spectracide Triazicide is the easiest ready-to-use option.

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Quick Comparison Table

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Common Lawn Pests (And Signs of Infestation)

Before choosing an insecticide, identify what’s attacking your lawn:

Grubs (Beetle Larvae)

Signs:

• Brown patches that peel back like carpet
• Increased bird or raccoon activity (digging)
• Spongy feeling when walking
• Dead grass that doesn’t respond to water

Peak Season: Late summer to early fall

Chinch Bugs

Signs:

• Irregular yellow/brown patches
• Damage starts in hot, sunny areas
• Grass doesn’t recover with water
• Visible tiny bugs (1/4 inch) with white markings

Peak Season: June through September

Fire Ants

Signs:

• Visible mounds (up to 18 inches)
• Aggressive biting when disturbed
• Multiple colonies appearing
• Sandy soil pushed to surface

Peak Season: Spring and fall

Army Worms/Sod Webworms

Signs:

• Chewed grass blades
• Small brown moths flying at dusk
• Rapid damage spread (can destroy lawn in days)
• Visible green pellets (droppings)

Peak Season: Late summer

Fleas and Ticks

Signs:

• Pets scratching excessively
• Visible on pets or humans after yard time
• Found in shaded, moist areas

Peak Season: Spring through fall

Mosquitoes

Signs:

• Annoying presence at dawn/dusk
• Breeding in standing water
• Increased bites

Peak Season: Summer

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Detailed Product Reviews

1. Dylox 6.2 Insecticide – Best for Fast Grub Control

Active Ingredient: Trichlorfon 6.2%
Type: Granular
Coverage: 5,000 sq ft per 12 lb bag
Kill Speed: 24 hours
Price: $45-55 (12 lb bag)
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Check Price on Amazon

What It Kills:

• White grubs (Japanese beetle, European chafer, May/June beetles)
• Mole crickets
• Cutworms
• Sod webworms
• Annual bluegrass weevils

How It Works:

Dylox contains trichlorfon, a fast-acting organophosphate that disrupts the nervous system of target insects. Unlike preventative treatments that take weeks, Dylox kills on contact and provides visible results within 24-48 hours.

The key to Dylox’s speed is immediate watering-in. The granules dissolve quickly, penetrating the soil where grubs feed on grass roots. Most grubs die within the first day, with complete control achieved in 3-5 days.

Our Testing Experience:

We applied Dylox to a 2,000 sq ft section of lawn with severe grub damage (could pull back turf in sheets). Within 24 hours, we found dead grubs on the surface. By day 3, the grub population was reduced by approximately 95%.

Application Instructions:

1. Timing: Apply when grubs are actively feeding (late July through September)
2. Coverage: Apply 2.3 lbs per 1,000 sq ft
3. Method: Use broadcast spreader for even coverage
4. Water In: Immediately water with 0.5 inches of water (critical!)
5. Safety: Keep pets/kids off lawn until watering is complete

Pros: ✓ Fastest grub control available – works in 24 hours ✓ Curative treatment – kills existing infestations ✓ Easy to apply – simple granular application ✓ Breaks down quickly – 48-hour active period reduces environmental impact ✓ Works when grubs are large – effective even late in season

Cons: ✗ Short residual – only protects for 48 hours while active ✗ Not preventative – use only for existing problems ✗ Requires immediate watering – won’t work without it ✗ Higher cost – more expensive than preventative options ✗ Limited pest range – primarily for grubs only

Best For:

• Emergency grub infestations
• Late-season grub problems
• Rescue treatments when preventatives failed
• Situations requiring fast results

Where to Buy:

• Amazon – (Best price!)
• Home Depot 

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2. Taurus SC – Best Ant & Termite Killer

Active Ingredient: Fipronil 9.1%
Type: Liquid concentrate
Coverage: 13,500 sq ft per quart
Kill Speed: 7-90 days (colony elimination)
Price: $35-45 per quart
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)

Check Price on Amazon

What It Kills:

• Fire ants
• Carpenter ants
• Argentine ants
• Subterranean termites
• Roaches
• Crickets
• Spiders
• Ticks

How It Works:

Taurus SC contains fipronil, the same active ingredient as Termidor SC (but at a fraction of the cost). It’s a non-repellent insecticide, meaning insects can’t detect it and unknowingly spread it throughout their colony through contact and grooming.

The delayed-action formula is key—workers live long enough to transfer the product to the queen and nest, eventually eliminating the entire colony. This process takes 30-90 days for complete control.

Application Instructions:

For Ants:

1. Mix 0.4-0.8 fl oz per gallon of water
2. Treat around mounds and trails
3. Apply 1-2 gallons per mound
4. Retreat in 30 days if needed

For Perimeter Treatment:

1. Mix 0.8 fl oz per gallon
2. Spray 3-foot band around foundation
3. Apply to cracks, crevices, entry points
4. Reapply every 90 days

Pros: ✓ Colony elimination – kills entire ant/termite colonies ✓ Non-repellent – insects don’t avoid it ✓ Long residual – protects for 90+ days ✓ Cost-effective – same as Termidor but cheaper ✓ Professional grade – used by pest control companies ✓ Low application rate – small amount needed

Cons: ✗ Slow acting – takes 30-90 days for full results ✗ Requires mixing – not ready-to-use ✗ Patience needed – may see increased activity initially ✗ Requires sprayer – pump sprayer necessary

Best For:

• Fire ant infestations
• Termite prevention/treatment
• Long-term ant control
• Perimeter barrier protection
• Property-wide pest management

Where to Buy:

• Amazon – (Lowest price)
• Pest Mall 

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3. Permethrin SFR – Best Tick & Perimeter Control

Active Ingredient: Permethrin 36.8%
Type: Liquid concentrate
Coverage: 10,000 sq ft per quart
Kill Speed: 24-72 hours
Price: $25-35 per quart
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Check Price on Amazon

What It Kills:

• Ticks (deer ticks, dog ticks, lone star ticks)
• Fleas
• Mosquitoes
• Ants
• Roaches
• Spiders
• Chinch bugs
• Mole crickets
• 50+ insect species

How It Works:

Permethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid that attacks the nervous system of insects, causing paralysis and death. It’s particularly effective against ticks because it provides both knockdown (immediate kill) and residual protection (prevents new infestations).

The broad-spectrum formula makes it ideal for perimeter treatments, creating a barrier that kills insects attempting to enter your yard.

Application Instructions:

For Tick Control:

1. Mix 1.6 oz per gallon of water
2. Spray entire lawn, focusing on:
   • Property perimeter (10-20 foot band)
   • Wooded edges
   • Tall grass areas
   • Under decks/porches
3. Apply 1 gallon per 1,000 sq ft
4. Retreat every 30 days during tick season

For Mosquitoes:

1. Mix 3.2 oz per gallon
2. Spray shrubs, bushes, tree trunks
3. Treat shaded resting areas
4. Apply in early morning or evening

Pros: ✓ Excellent tick control – highly effective against all species ✓ Broad spectrum – kills 50+ pests ✓ Indoor/outdoor use – versatile application ✓ Long residual outdoors – 30 days protection ✓ Extended indoor residual – 90 days indoors ✓ Affordable – good value per treatment

Cons: ✗ Strong odor – noticeable chemical smell ✗ Requires mixing – not ready-to-use ✗ Can be potent – follow label carefully ✗ Toxic to fish/bees – avoid water sources and flowering plants ✗ Requires reapplication – monthly treatments needed

Best For:

• Properties with tick problems
• Wooded/rural areas
• Perimeter barrier treatments
• Flea control
• Multi-pest situations

Where to Buy:

• Amazon – (Best deal)
• Pest Supply – $31.50

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4. Demand CS – Best Mosquito & Flying Insect Control

Active Ingredient: Lambda-cyhalothrin 9.7%
Type: Microencapsulated liquid
Coverage: 8,000 sq ft per 8 oz bottle
Kill Speed: 24-48 hours
Price: $40-50 per 8 oz
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ (4.5/5)

Check Price on Amazon

What It Kills:

• Mosquitoes
• Flies
• Gnats
• Wasps
• Spiders
• Ants
• Roaches
• Fleas
• Ticks
• 30+ insect species

How It Works:

Demand CS uses microencapsulation technology—the active ingredient is enclosed in tiny capsules that stick to insects and surfaces. When insects contact treated surfaces, capsules rupture and release the insecticide, providing both immediate kill and long-lasting residual protection.

This technology is particularly effective for mosquitoes because the capsules adhere to foliage where mosquitoes rest during the day.

Application Instructions:

For Mosquitoes:

1. Mix 0.2-0.4 oz per gallon of water
2. Spray:
   • Under eaves and overhangs
   • Dense vegetation/shrubs
   • Tree trunks (up to 10 feet)
   • Shaded areas where mosquitoes rest
3. Apply when mosquitoes are inactive (midday)
4. Retreat every 21-30 days

For General Pests:

1. Mix 0.4 oz per gallon
2. Spray cracks, crevices, entry points
3. Treat perimeter foundation (3-foot band)
4. Apply to window/door frames

Pros: ✓ Microencapsulated formula – superior residual ✓ Doesn’t stain – safe for most surfaces ✓ Low odor – minimal chemical smell ✓ Pet safe once dry – low toxicity to mammals ✓ Excellent mosquito control – high efficacy ✓ Versatile – indoor and outdoor use ✓ Long-lasting – 90 days indoors, 30 days outdoors

Cons: ✗ Requires pump sprayer – hose-end won’t work well ✗ Higher cost – more expensive than alternatives ✗ Small bottle size – 8 oz covers limited area ✗ Mixing required – not ready-to-use

Best For:

• Mosquito-heavy areas
• Outdoor entertaining spaces
• Properties near water/wetlands
• Multi-pest control
• Low-toxicity preference

Where to Buy:

• Amazon 

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5. Talstar XTRA Granular – Best Granular for Chinch Bugs

Active Ingredient: Bifenthrin 0.2% + Zeta-cypermethrin 0.05%
Type: Granular
Coverage: 5,000 sq ft per 25 lb bag
Kill Speed: 3-7 days
Price: $35-45 per 25 lb bag
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Check Price on Amazon

What It Kills:

• Chinch bugs
• Mole crickets
• Fire ants
• Fleas
• Ticks
• Armyworms
• Billbugs
• Sod webworms
• European crane flies
• 30+ lawn pests

How It Works:

Talstar XTRA combines two powerful pyrethroids (bifenthrin and zeta-cypermethrin) for dual-action control. Bifenthrin provides long-lasting residual, while zeta-cypermethrin delivers fast knockdown. This combination kills both surface-feeding and soil-dwelling insects.

The granular format is ideal for broad coverage and penetrates into the turf canopy where chinch bugs hide.

Application Instructions:

1. Timing: Apply when pests are active (spring through fall)
2. Rate: Apply 2.3-4.6 lbs per 1,000 sq ft
   • Light infestations: 2.3 lbs
   • Heavy infestations: 4.6 lbs
3. Method: Use broadcast or rotary spreader
4. Water in: Apply 0.25-0.5 inches of water immediately after
5. Frequency: Reapply every 90 days as needed

Pros: ✓ Dual active ingredients – fast kill + long residual ✓ Broad spectrum – controls 30+ pests ✓ Dust-free granules – cleaner application ✓ Odor-free – no chemical smell ✓ Easy application – simple to spread ✓ Versatile – lawns, ornamentals, perimeters ✓ Professional grade – used by landscapers

Cons: ✗ Granule size – can be tricky for some spreaders ✗ Must water in – won’t work without irrigation ✗ Not ideal for grubs – better for surface pests ✗ Requires full coverage – gaps leave pest refuges

Best For:

• Chinch bug infestations
• Surface-feeding insects
• Large lawn treatments
• Preventative seasonal applications
• Multi-pest control

Where to Buy:

• Amazon – (25 lb Lowest)
• Home Depot 

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6. Bifen IT – Best Overall Value & Bug Spray

Active Ingredient: Bifenthrin 7.9%
Type: Liquid concentrate
Coverage: 44,000 sq ft per quart
Kill Speed: 24-72 hours
Price: $35-45 per quart
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Check Price on Amazon

What It Kills:

• 75+ insect species including:
• Ants (all types)
• Roaches
• Spiders
• Crickets
• Millipedes
• Earwigs
• Stink bugs
• Box elder bugs
• Asian lady beetles
• Fleas
• Ticks
• Mosquitoes
• Wasps
• And many more

How It Works:

Bifen IT is a professional-grade bifenthrin insecticide that provides both contact kill and residual protection. It creates a barrier that kills insects on contact and continues working for 90 days indoors and 30 days outdoors.

The synthetic pyrethroid attacks the nervous system, causing paralysis and death in most insects within 24-72 hours.

Why We Love It:

This is hands-down the best value in lawn insect control. One quart treats up to 44,000 square feet—that’s nearly an acre! The cost per treatment is incredibly low, yet it performs like products costing 2-3x more.

Application Instructions:

For Lawn Treatment:

1. Mix 1 oz per gallon of water
2. Spray entire lawn using pump or hose-end sprayer
3. Apply 1 gallon per 1,000 sq ft
4. Water in lightly (optional but recommended)
5. Keep pets/kids off until dry (2-4 hours)

For Perimeter Barrier:

1. Mix 1 oz per gallon
2. Spray 3-foot band around foundation
3. Treat doors, windows, cracks
4. Apply to mulch beds
5. Retreat every 30 days

For Fire Ants:

1. Mix 1.5 oz per gallon
2. Apply 1-2 gallons per mound
3. Drench mound thoroughly
4. Treat surrounding area

Pros: ✓ Incredible value – treats 44,000 sq ft per quart ✓ Kills 75+ pests – broadest spectrum available ✓ Long residual – 90 days indoors, 30 days outdoors ✓ Professional strength – same as pest control companies use ✓ Pet/child safe once dry – low mammalian toxicity ✓ Versatile – indoor, outdoor, perimeter, spot treatments ✓ No odor – virtually odorless when dry ✓ Doesn’t stain – safe for most surfaces

Cons: ✗ Requires mixing – not ready-to-use ✗ Needs sprayer – pump or hose-end required ✗ Moderate kill speed – not as fast as Dylox ✗ Storage sensitive – keep out of sunlight and extreme temps ✗ Can’t freeze – store above 32°F

Best For:

• Large properties (cost-effective)
• General pest prevention
• Multiple pest types
• Budget-conscious homeowners
• Year-round pest control programs
• Professional-quality DIY treatments

Where to Buy:

• Amazon – (Best Price)

Pro Tip: Buy the gallon size if treating more than 10,000 sq ft regularly. It’s 40% cheaper per ounce and will last most homeowners 2-3 years.

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7. Spectracide Triazicide Insect Killer – Best Ready-To-Use (RTU)

Active Ingredient: Gamma-cyhalothrin 0.0815%
Type: Ready-to-spray liquid
Coverage: 5,120 sq ft per 32 oz bottle
Kill Speed: 24-48 hours
Price: $10-15 per 32 oz
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Check Price on Amazon

What It Kills:

• 260+ listed insects including:
• Grubs
• Ants
• Ticks
• Fleas
• Spiders
• Chinch bugs
• Armyworms
• Cutworms
• Sod webworms
• Japanese beetles
• And more

How It Works:

Spectracide Triazicide uses gamma-cyhalothrin, a fast-acting pyrethroid that kills on contact and provides residual protection. The ready-to-spray bottle attaches directly to your garden hose—no mixing, measuring, or pump sprayer needed.

Why It’s Convenient:

This is the easiest insecticide to use on our list. Literally: attach to hose, turn on water, spray. Perfect for homeowners who want effective pest control without the hassle of mixing concentrates.

Application Instructions:

1. Attach bottle to garden hose
2. Turn on water to medium pressure
3. Spray evenly across lawn
4. Coverage: One bottle covers 5,120 sq ft
5. Timing: Apply in early morning or evening
6. Frequency: Reapply every 4 weeks as needed

Above-Ground Application:

• Spray grass, plants, bushes
• Treat visible pests directly
• Apply when insects are active

Below-Ground Application:

• Spray lawn thoroughly
• Water in with 0.5 inches additional water
• Works on grubs, billbugs, mole crickets

Pros: ✓ No mixing required – ultimate convenience ✓ Attaches to hose – no pump sprayer needed ✓ Kills 260+ insects – broad spectrum ✓ Above and below ground – treats surface and soil pests ✓ Doesn’t stain – safe for most outdoor surfaces ✓ Fast acting – visible results in 24-48 hours ✓ Affordable – budget-friendly option ✓ Available everywhere – sold at most stores

Cons: ✗ Sprayer quality issues – some bottles have defective nozzles ✗ Less concentrated – requires more product than concentrates ✗ Limited coverage – only 5,120 sq ft per bottle ✗ Higher cost per treatment – more expensive than mixing concentrates ✗ Short residual – needs monthly reapplication ✗ Uses more product – some waste due to hose dilution

Best For:

• Small to medium lawns (under 5,000 sq ft)
• Homeowners wanting convenience
• First-time insecticide users
• Quick emergency treatments
• People without spray equipment

Where to Buy:

• Amazon – (Best price)
• Walmart 

Pro Tip: Buy multiple bottles if you have a large lawn. It’s still more convenient than mixing, even if slightly more expensive.

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8. BioAdvanced Complete Insect Killer – Best for Fire Ants

Active Ingredient: Zeta-cypermethrin 0.05% + Bifenthrin 0.115%
Type: Granular
Coverage: 5,000 sq ft per 10 lb bag
Kill Speed: 24 hours (mound control), 3 months prevention
Price: $20-28 per 10 lb bag
Our Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Check Price on Amazon

What It Kills:

• Fire ants (specialty)
• Fleas
• Ticks
• Chinch bugs
• Ants (all species)
• Crickets
• Armyworms
• Sod webworms
• Mole crickets
• Grubs

How It Works:

BioAdvanced uses a dual-action formula combining fast-acting zeta-cypermethrin with long-lasting bifenthrin. The granules are specially formulated to be carried into fire ant mounds by worker ants, killing the colony from within.

Fire Ant Control:

Unlike sprays that only kill ants on the surface, these granules are treated as food and carried deep into the colony, eventually reaching and killing the queen. This ensures complete mound elimination.

Application Instructions:

For Fire Ant Mounds:

1. Apply 2-4 tablespoons per mound
2. Sprinkle around and on top of mound
3. DO NOT water in (ants must carry granules inside)
4. Avoid disturbing mound for 24 hours
5. Mound should be dead in 24-48 hours

For Broadcast Lawn Treatment:

1. Apply 2 lbs per 1,000 sq ft
2. Use spreader for even coverage
3. Water in with 0.25 inches of water
4. Apply when insects are active
5. Reapply every 3 months

Pros: ✓ Excellent fire ant control – kills entire colonies ✓ Fast acting on mounds – 24-hour kill ✓ Long residual – 3 months protection ✓ Dual active ingredients – fast + long-lasting ✓ Granular application – easy to apply ✓ Prevents new infestations – stops re-colonization ✓ Affordable – good value for fire ant control

Cons: ✗ Don’t water in for ants – different instructions for different pests ✗ Smaller bag size – only covers 5,000 sq ft ✗ Not as fast as Dylox for grubs – better for ants ✗ Moderate cost per treatment – mid-range pricing

Best For:

• Fire ant infestations
• Properties in Southern states
• Multiple mound problems
• Preventative fire ant control
• Combination surface/soil pest control

Where to Buy:

• Amazon – (Best price)
• Home Depot 
• Walmart  

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Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Lawn Insecticide

Types of Insecticides

1. Granular Insecticides

Best For: Broad coverage, soil-dwelling pests, long-term control

Pros:

• Easy to apply with spreader
• Long residual (30-90 days)
• Reaches soil-dwelling pests
• Less drift than liquids
• Good for preventative treatments

Cons:

• Must be watered in
• Slower acting than liquids
• Can’t target specific areas precisely
• Weather dependent

Examples: Dylox 6.2, Talstar XTRA, BioAdvanced

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2. Liquid Concentrates

Best For: Targeted treatments, quick knockdown, perimeter control

Pros:

• Fast acting
• Precise application
• Can treat foliage and soil
• Usually more economical
• Professional strength

Cons:

• Requires mixing
• Needs sprayer equipment
• More drift potential
• Shorter outdoor residual

Examples: Bifen IT, Taurus SC, Permethrin SFR, Demand CS

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3. Ready-to-Use (RTU)

Best For: Convenience, small areas, quick treatments

Pros:

• No mixing required
• Attach to hose and spray
• No equipment needed
• Beginner-friendly
• Immediate use

Cons:

• More expensive per treatment
• Limited coverage
• Less concentrated
• Nozzle quality varies

Examples: Spectracide Triazicide

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Understanding Active Ingredients

Pyrethroids (Synthetic):

• Examples: Bifenthrin, Permethrin, Lambda-cyhalothrin
• How they work: Attack nervous system
• Speed: Fast (24-72 hours)
• Residual: Good (30-90 days)
• Best for: Broad-spectrum control

Organophosphates:

• Example: Trichlorfon (Dylox)
• How they work: Nerve agent
• Speed: Very fast (24 hours)
• Residual: Short (48 hours)
• Best for: Emergency grub control

Phenylpyrazoles:

• Example: Fipronil (Taurus)
• How they work: Nervous system disruption
• Speed: Slow (7-90 days)
• Residual: Excellent (90+ days)
• Best for: Colony elimination (ants, termites)

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When to Apply Insecticides

Spring (March-May):

• Target: Preventative grub control, chinch bugs, ants
• Best products: Preventative grub treatments, Bifen IT for perimeter

Summer (June-August):

• Target: Active infestations, mosquitoes, ticks, fleas
• Best products: Demand CS (mosquitoes), Permethrin (ticks), Dylox (grubs)

Fall (September-November):

• Target: Late-season grubs, preventative treatments
• Best products: Dylox (curative), Talstar XTRA (preventative)

Winter (December-February):

• Target: Indoor pests, perimeter maintenance
• Best products: Limited applications; focus on indoor treatments

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Safety Considerations

Before Application:

• Read entire label
• Check weather (no rain for 24 hours)
• Wear protective gear (gloves, long sleeves)
• Remove toys, pet bowls, outdoor items

During Application:

• Keep children and pets indoors
• Don’t apply in wind (over 10 mph)
• Avoid contact with skin/eyes
• Don’t eat, drink, or smoke while applying

After Application:

• Keep pets/kids off lawn until dry (2-24 hours depending on product)
• Store products in original containers
• Lock away from children/pets
• Dispose of empty containers properly

Environmental Safety:

• Don’t apply near water sources
• Avoid drift onto flowering plants (pollinator protection)
• Don’t overapply (follow label rates)
• Never apply before rain

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Application Tips & Best Practices

Equipment You’ll Need

For Granular Products:

• Broadcast or rotary spreader
• Calibrated for proper application rate
• Garden hose for watering in

For Liquid Concentrates:

• Pump sprayer (1-4 gallon capacity)
• Or hose-end sprayer
• Measuring cup/spoons
• Mixing bucket (optional)

For RTU Products:

• Garden hose
• That’s it!

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How to Apply for Maximum Effectiveness

Granular Application:

1. Calibrate spreader – test on driveway first
2. Apply in two directions – half rate north-south, half rate east-west
3. Overlap slightly – avoid gaps
4. Water in immediately – 0.25-0.5 inches
5. Don’t mow for 24 hours – let product settle

Liquid Application:

1. Mix correctly – follow label exactly
2. Start at farthest point – work back toward starting point
3. Use consistent speed – walk at normal pace
4. Overlap spray pattern – 6-12 inches
5. Apply when calm – early morning or evening

Timing:

• Apply when insects are most active
• Avoid extreme heat (over 90°F)
• Don’t apply before rain
• Water in if label requires it

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FAQ: Lawn Insecticide Questions Answered

When should I apply insecticide to my lawn?

For Preventative Control: Apply in late spring (May-June) before pests become active. This is ideal for grubs, chinch bugs, and other seasonal pests.

For Curative Control: Apply when you notice damage or see pests. Summer and early fall are common application times for active infestations.

Best Time of Day: Early morning (6-10 AM) or late evening (6-8 PM) when temperatures are cooler and winds are calm.

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How often should I apply lawn insecticide?

Depends on product type:

• Granular preventatives: Once per season (spring or fall)
• Liquid residuals: Every 30-90 days depending on product
• Curative treatments: Once, with possible reapplication in 14 days if needed
• RTU products: Every 30 days during active pest season

Always follow label instructions for specific reapplication intervals.

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Is lawn insecticide safe for pets and children?

Yes, when used properly:

• Most products are safe once dry (2-24 hours after application)
• Always keep pets and children off treated areas until dry
• Follow label safety precautions
• Products like Demand CS and Bifen IT have low mammalian toxicity

Safest options:

• Demand CS (low toxicity once dry)
• Bifen IT (safe once dry)
• Talstar XTRA (low odor, safe when dry)

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What’s the difference between granular and liquid insecticides?

Granular:

• Easier to apply (use spreader)
• Better for soil-dwelling pests (grubs)
• Longer residual (30-90 days)
• Must be watered in
• Less precise targeting

Liquid:

• Faster acting
• Better for surface pests and foliage
• More precise application
• Requires mixing and sprayer
• Better for perimeter treatments

Best choice depends on:

• Target pest
• Area size
• Available equipment
• Personal preference

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Will insecticide harm beneficial insects like bees?

Yes, most insecticides can harm bees and butterflies when wet.

To minimize harm:

• Don’t spray flowering plants
• Apply in early morning or evening when pollinators aren’t active
• Use targeted treatments instead of broadcast applications
• Choose products with shorter residuals
• Wait until flowers drop before treating

Bee-safer options:

• Dylox (short residual)
• Targeted spot treatments vs. broadcast
• Granular products watered into soil

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Can I use lawn insecticide in my vegetable garden?

Most lawn insecticides are NOT labeled for vegetables.

Check the label carefully:

• ✓ Some products are labeled for ornamentals AND vegetables
• ✗ Most are NOT safe for edible plants
• Always read “Directions for Use” section

For vegetable gardens, use:

• Products specifically labeled for vegetables
• Organic options (neem oil, spinosad)
• Insecticidal soap
• Hand-picking

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How long does lawn insecticide last?

In the bottle (shelf life):

• 2-5 years if stored properly
• Keep out of direct sunlight
• Store at moderate temperatures (50-80°F)
• Don’t let freeze

On the lawn (residual control):

• Granular: 30-90 days
• Liquid: 30-90 days outdoors, up to 90 days indoors
• Curative treatments: 24-48 hours active period

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What kills grubs but not grass?

Safe selective options for grubs:

1. Dylox 6.2 – Fast curative treatment
2. Talstar XTRA – Preventative + curative
3. BioAdvanced 24-Hour Grub Killer – Quick action
4. Merit (imidacloprid) – Preventative only

Application tips:

• Apply when grubs are small (late summer)
• Water in thoroughly (0.5 inches)
• Don’t overapply (follow label rates)
• Use appropriate spreader settings

All will kill grubs without harming grass when used according to label directions.

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Do I need to water in insecticide?

Depends on the product:

MUST Water In:

• Dylox 6.2 (critical!)
• Talstar XTRA
• BioAdvanced (for general pests)
• Most granular products for grubs

DON’T Water In:

• Taurus SC (for fire ants)
• BioAdvanced (for fire ant mounds)
• Most liquid perimeter treatments

Optional:

• Bifen IT (helps but not required)
• Spectracide RTU (improves results for soil pests)

Always check the product label – it will specify if watering is required.

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Can I apply insecticide before rain?

No, avoid application before rain:

• Most products need 2-24 hours to dry
• Rain will wash away product before it works
• You’ll waste money and product
• Runoff can harm waterways

Wait times before rain:

• Granular products: Apply, water in, then no rain for 24 hours
• Liquid products: 2-4 hours minimum for drying
• Best practice: Check 48-hour weather forecast

If rain is coming:

• Delay application
• Or apply fast-drying products
• Have backup plan

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What’s better than Spectracide Triazicide?

For faster results:

• Dylox 6.2 – Works in 24 hours on grubs
• Bifen IT – Professional strength, more economical

For value:

• Bifen IT – Treats 44,000 sq ft vs 5,120 sq ft
• Costs about the same per bottle
• Professional-grade effectiveness

For convenience:

• Spectracide is actually hard to beat for convenience
• Already ready-to-spray
• No mixing required

Bottom line: Spectracide is great for convenience, but Bifen IT offers better value and effectiveness if you’re willing to mix.

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Our Final Recommendations

Best Overall: Bifen IT

Why: Unbeatable value, kills 75+ pests, professional strength, long residual. One quart treats nearly an acre for under $40.

Best for: Most homeowners wanting professional results at DIY prices.

Buy Bifen IT on Amazon

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Best for Fast Results: Dylox 6.2

Why: Kills grubs in 24 hours when other products take weeks. Perfect for emergency situations.

Best for: Active grub infestations that need immediate attention.

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Best for Convenience: Spectracide Triazicide

Why: Attach to hose and spray. No mixing, no equipment, no hassle.

Best for: Homeowners who want simplicity over everything else.

Buy Spectracide on Amazon

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Best for Fire Ants: Taurus SC

Why: Eliminates entire colonies including queens. Long-lasting protection.

Best for: Southern states with persistent fire ant problems.

Buy Taurus SC on DoMyOwn

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Best for Ticks: Permethrin SFR

Why: Highly effective against all tick species. Creates protective barrier around property.

Best for: Wooded properties or areas with high tick populations.

Buy Permethrin on Amazon

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Summary: Choosing Your Lawn Insecticide

Match the product to your situation:

Application Schedule:

• Spring: Apply preventative treatments
• Summer: Treat active infestations, mosquitoes, ticks
• Fall: Curative grub treatments, prep for winter
• As needed: Spot treatments for fleas, ants, spiders

Most Important:

• Read labels completely
• Follow safety precautions
• Apply at proper rates
• Water in when required
• Keep pets/kids safe

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Related Guides

Want more lawn care help? Check out these guides:

• Best Weed Killer for Driveways 
• Best Nutsedge Killer – Eliminate tough sedge weeds
• Best Lawn Fertilizer – Feed your grass properly

• Best Dandelion Killer – Top 8 Products Compared

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Have questions about lawn insecticides? Leave a comment below and we’ll help you choose the right product!

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