I’m no stranger to battling weeds in my backyard, and let me tell you, Ortho GroundClear has been a game-changer. If you’re tired of stubborn weeds creeping up in your driveway, patio, or garden beds, this product is your new best friend.
It’s fast, effective, and keeps those pesky plants at bay for months. Trust me, you’ll want to grab a bottle of Ortho GroundClear to reclaim your outdoor space and keep it looking pristine with minimal effort.
Here’s my honest take on why it’s worth every penny.
My Experience With Ortho GroundClear
Picture this: my backyard was a jungle of dandelions, crabgrass, and those sneaky weeds that seem to laugh at every attempt to get rid of them.
I’d spent hours pulling them out, only to see them pop back up like uninvited guests.
Then I discovered Ortho GroundClear Vegetation Killer Concentrate, and it was like flipping a switch.
I grabbed my trusty tank sprayer, mixed the concentrate as directed, and went to town on my driveway and patio.
The first thing I noticed was how easy it was to apply—no complicated steps, just mix, spray, and wait.
Within hours, I could see the weeds starting to wilt. By the next day, they were browning and shriveling up, and by day three, my driveway looked like a weed-free oasis. I was skeptical at first, thinking it might just be surface-level damage, but weeks later, those weeds hadn’t made a comeback.
The product’s promise of up to a year of weed control felt ambitious, but I’ve gone months without seeing new growth in treated areas. I even tackled some stubborn catclaw weeds that had been haunting my gravel path for years, and GroundClear took them out like a pro.
What I loved most was how it didn’t just mask the problem—it hit the weeds at the root, ensuring they stayed gone. Sure, it took a bit of patience for some tougher grasses, which needed a second application, but the results were undeniable.
My husband, who’s usually skeptical of “miracle” products, was impressed when our sidewalk cracks stayed clear for months. It’s not just about killing weeds; it’s about giving you back your time and sanity. My experience wasn’t perfect—more on that later—but GroundClear turned my weed war into a victory.
Pros of Ortho GroundClear: Why It’s My Go-To?
- Kills Weeds Down to the Root
One of the biggest wins with Ortho GroundClear is its ability to annihilate weeds at their core.
Unlike some products that just burn the tops and let the roots regroup for a comeback, GroundClear’s formula, with ingredients like glyphosate and imazapyr, goes straight for the root system.
I sprayed it on some dandelions that had been mocking me for months, and not only did they die, but they didn’t return.
This root-level action means you’re not just treating the symptom—you’re solving the problem for good.
- Long-Lasting Weed Control
If you’re like me, you don’t want to be out there spraying every other week. GroundClear delivers on its promise of up to a year of weed prevention. After treating my gravel paths and patio, I’ve enjoyed months of weed-free bliss.
The pre-emergent ingredients stop new weed seeds from sprouting, which is a lifesaver for areas like driveways where seeds blow in constantly. It’s like putting a force field around your yard, keeping invaders out without constant upkeep.
- Fast-Acting Formula
Patience isn’t my strong suit, so I was thrilled when I saw results within hours. GroundClear’s fast-acting formula starts wilting weeds almost as soon as it dries. By the next morning, my patio looked like it had been hit by a weed apocalypse—brown, shriveled plants everywhere.
For someone who wants quick results to feel like they’re winning the weed battle, this is a huge plus. It’s satisfying to see the problem disappear so fast.
- Easy to Apply
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a newbie like I was when I started, GroundClear is a breeze to use. The concentrate version I used mixes easily with water in a tank sprayer or sprinkling can. The instructions are clear, and you don’t need a PhD to figure out the ratios.
There’s also a ready-to-use spray for smaller jobs, which is perfect if you’re just tackling a few spots. I found the sprayer gave me better control, especially for targeting specific areas without overspray.
- Versatile for Multiple Surfaces
I’ve used GroundClear on my driveway, patio, gravel paths, and even around my fence line, and it works like a charm everywhere. It’s designed for hardscapes like concrete, gravel, and mulch beds, so you don’t have to worry about it damaging surfaces when used as directed.
This versatility means I can keep my entire outdoor space looking tidy with just one product, which saves me time and money.
Not-So-Good Parts: Where GroundClear Falls Short?
- Not Selective—Kills Everything
Here’s the deal: GroundClear doesn’t discriminate.
It’ll wipe out anything green it touches, which is great for weeds but disastrous if you accidentally spray your lawn or garden plants.
I learned this the hard way when I got a little overzealous near my grass and ended up with a patchy spot.
If you’re trying to target weeds in your yard without harming grass, you’ll need a different product.
GroundClear is a total vegetation killer, so precision is key.
- Slower on Tough Weeds
While most weeds curled up and died quickly, some of the tougher ones, like certain grasses and catclaw, took longer than I expected. In my experience, it sometimes took a few days to see results, and a second application was needed for really stubborn plants.
It’s not a dealbreaker, but if you’re expecting instant death for every weed, you might need to adjust your expectations and plan for follow-up sprays.
- Pet and Environmental Concerns
I’m a pet owner, so safety is a big deal for me. GroundClear contains glyphosate, which has sparked some controversy over its environmental impact. While it’s formulated to degrade over time, I was cautious about letting my dog near treated areas until they were completely dry—usually a few hours.
The label says it’s safe once dry, but I waited a full day to be extra careful. If you’re super eco-conscious, you might hesitate, as the product’s strength comes with a need for responsible use to avoid runoff into water sources.
- Not Available Everywhere
I was surprised to learn that GroundClear isn’t sold in some places, like California, due to regulatory concerns. This was a bummer for a friend who wanted to try it after seeing my results.
If you live in a restricted area, you’ll need to find an alternative, which can be frustrating if you’re set on this product. Always check local regulations before buying.
Keeping Your Space Weed-Free With Ortho GroundClear
- Prep the Area Before Spraying
Before you unleash GroundClear, give your weeds a haircut. I found that trimming or mowing taller weeds helps the spray reach the roots more effectively. It’s like clearing the way for a knockout punch.
Remove any debris, like leaves or sticks, that might block the spray from hitting its target. This prep work makes a big difference in how well the product works, especially on dense patches.
- Apply on a Calm, Dry Day
Weather matters. I made the mistake of spraying on a windy day once, and let’s just say my aim wasn’t as precise as I’d hoped. Apply GroundClear on a calm, dry day to avoid drift onto plants you want to keep.
Check the forecast to ensure no rain for at least a few hours after application—rain can wash away the product before it has a chance to work its magic. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for even coverage.
- Use the Right Equipment
I swear by my tank sprayer for larger areas because it gives me control over where the product goes. For smaller spots, the ready-to-use spray bottle is handy, but for big jobs, mix the concentrate in a sprayer for better coverage.
Make sure your equipment is clean and working properly to avoid clogs or uneven application. I learned to rinse my sprayer thoroughly after each use to keep it in top shape.
- Follow Up for Stubborn Weeds
Some weeds are like the villains in a horror movie—they just won’t stay dead. For those tough customers, I recommend checking treated areas after a week and reapplying if you see any green survivors.
In my experience, a second round was enough to finish off even the most resilient weeds. Keep an eye on treated areas monthly to catch any new growth early.
- Store Properly for Safety
After you’re done, store GroundClear in a cool, dry place, away from kids and pets. I keep mine in a locked shed to be safe. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent leaks or spills.
If you’re using the concentrate, don’t mix more than you need for one application—it’s best to mix fresh each time for maximum potency.
Comparison With Other Brands: How GroundClear Stacks Up?
I’ve gone head-to-head with weeds using Ortho GroundClear, Deadweed Brew, MENARDS Weed & Feed, and RM43 Weed Killer. Each has its strengths, but let’s break it down by comparing GroundClear directly to each competitor on key factors. Think of this as a friendly showdown in my backyard, where I’m sharing what I learned from using these products to keep my space weed-free.
Ortho GroundClear Vs. Deadweed Brew
- Speed of Results: Ortho GroundClear starts working fast—within hours, I saw weeds wilting on my patio, with most dead in a day or two. Tougher weeds might linger, but the visible progress is quick. Deadweed Brew, a vinegar-based natural option, is even faster. I sprayed it on driveway cracks, and under sunny conditions, weeds were scorched in about an hour. It’s like watching them surrender instantly, but GroundClear’s speed is close enough for most jobs.
- Longevity of Weed Control: GroundClear’s mix of glyphosate and imazapyr keeps weeds at bay for up to a year. My gravel paths stayed clear for months, which saved me tons of time. Deadweed Brew, however, only prevents regrowth for a few weeks. I noticed new weeds popping up soon after, requiring frequent reapplication. If you want long-term control, GroundClear’s staying power is unmatched.
- Ease of Application: Mixing GroundClear’s concentrate with a tank sprayer was straightforward, and the ready-to-use spray is great for small spots. Deadweed Brew comes ready-to-spray, which is convenient, but its strong vinegar smell was a bit much, and I had to be extra careful to avoid drift. GroundClear’s clear instructions and versatility make it easier for bigger projects.
- Effectiveness on Tough Weeds: GroundClear kills most weeds, including roots, with one or two applications. It took out my stubborn dandelions like a champ. Deadweed Brew struggles with deep-rooted or grassy weeds, often just burning the tops. I had to reapply multiple times for catclaw weeds, which was frustrating. GroundClear wins for tackling tough invaders.
Ortho GroundClear Vs. MENARDS Weed & Feed
- Speed of Results: GroundClear’s fast-acting formula had my patio weeds browning within hours. MENARDS Weed & Feed, designed for lawns, is slower. When I used it on my grass, it took about a week to see dandelions fade, and grassy weeds were untouched. For quick results on hardscapes, GroundClear is the clear winner.
- Longevity of Weed Control: GroundClear prevents weed regrowth for months, up to a year in some cases. My driveway stayed pristine after one application. MENARDS Weed & Feed offers some prevention but focuses on feeding grass, so weeds crept back in a couple of months. For long-term weed-free zones, GroundClear is superior.
- Ease of Application: I mixed GroundClear in a sprayer for precise application, which was easy once I got the hang of it. MENARDS Weed & Feed comes as granules, which I spread with a spreader. It’s simple for lawns but messy for non-grass areas, and I worried about runoff. GroundClear’s liquid form is more versatile for targeted use.
- Effectiveness on Tough Weeds: GroundClear’s non-selective formula kills everything, roots and all, making it great for driveways and patios. MENARDS Weed & Feed is selective, targeting broadleaf weeds but leaving grass unharmed. It didn’t touch my crabgrass, so I needed another product for non-lawn areas. GroundClear’s broader effectiveness makes it my go-to.
Ortho GroundClear Vs. RM43 Weed Killer
- Speed of Results: GroundClear starts wilting weeds in hours, with full results in a few days. RM43, which I used along my fence line, is similarly paced, taking a couple of days to kill weeds completely. Both are effective, but neither matches the instant burn of natural options like Deadweed Brew. For speed, they’re neck and neck.
- Longevity of Weed Control: Both GroundClear and RM43 promise long-lasting weed prevention, and they deliver. GroundClear kept my gravel paths clear for months, and RM43 did the same for my fence line, with claims of up to a year of control. I’d call it a tie—both are excellent for keeping weeds gone long-term.
- Ease of Application: GroundClear’s concentrate mixes easily in a sprayer, and the ready-to-use option is handy for small jobs. RM43’s concentrate was fussier to mix, with more precise dilution ratios that took me longer to figure out. I also found RM43’s instructions less user-friendly. GroundClear edges out for simplicity.
- Effectiveness on Tough Weeds: Both products are heavy-hitters, killing weeds down to the roots. GroundClear took out my catclaw weeds with one or two sprays, while RM43 handled similar tough plants along my fence. However, RM43’s industrial-strength formula felt like overkill for my suburban yard, while GroundClear was just right for home use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You bet it does! In my experience, GroundClear delivers on its promise to kill weeds and prevent regrowth. I saw visible results within hours, with most weeds dead within days. Tougher weeds might need a second spray, but the root-killing action ensures they don’t come back easily. My driveway and patio have stayed weed-free for months, which is proof enough for me.
Not quite. Both use glyphosate, but GroundClear pairs it with imazapyr for longer-lasting control—up to a year—while Roundup Dual Action uses pelargonic acid for faster results but shorter prevention (about four months). GroundClear’s better for long-term weed control, while Roundup’s great for quick kills. It depends on what you need.
The label says it’s safe once dry, which is usually a few hours, but I play it safe and keep my dog away for 24 hours. Glyphosate can be concerning, so I make sure the treated area is completely dry and well-ventilated before letting pets near it. Always store the product securely to avoid accidents.
Absolutely. GroundClear’s systemic formula, with glyphosate and imazapyr, gets absorbed into the plant and travels to the roots, killing the whole weed. I’ve seen it take out stubborn dandelions and catclaw weeds at the root, preventing regrowth for months. It’s one of the reasons I love it.
Conclusion: Grab Ortho GroundClear And Say Goodbye To Weeds
If you’re fed up with weeds taking over your yard, Ortho GroundClear is the answer. It’s powerful, long-lasting, and easy to use, making it a no-brainer for anyone who wants a pristine outdoor space without constant battles.
From my patio to my gravel paths, it’s kept weeds at bay for months, saving me time and frustration. Don’t let weeds win—get GroundClear and enjoy a cleaner, weed-free yard with minimal effort.
You won’t regret it!