Ortho Vs. Roundup: A Gardener’s Guide To Choosing The Right Weed Killer

I’ve spent countless weekends battling weeds in my garden, and I know the struggle is real. Whether it’s dandelions choking my lawn or crabgrass creeping into my flower beds, finding the right weed killer is a game-changer.

In this article, I’m breaking down two heavyweights in the herbicide world: Ortho GroundClear and Roundup. I’ll walk you through their key features, weigh their pros and cons, and share insights from my own experience to help you decide which one suits your needs.

Let’s get those weeds under control together!

A Brief Comparison Table

Understanding Ortho GroundClear: The Heavy Hitter

When I first grabbed a bottle of Ortho GroundClear, I was drawn to its promise of wiping out weeds with ruthless efficiency. This herbicide is a non-selective beast, meaning it doesn’t discriminate—it’ll take out anything green it touches.

Its active ingredients are glyphosate, imazapyr, and pelargonic acid, a trio that makes it a powerhouse for clearing large areas like driveways, patios, or gravel paths.

Key Features of Ortho GroundClear

Ortho GroundClear is designed for total vegetation control.

The glyphosate and imazapyr combo works by penetrating plant tissues and stopping growth at the root.

Pelargonic acid adds a quick knockout punch, scorching foliage on contact.

I’ve seen weeds start wilting within an hour of spraying, which is satisfying when you’re dealing with a stubborn patch of crabgrass.

It’s available in various forms—ready-to-use sprays, concentrates, and even a battery-powered wand for precise application.

One standout feature is its long-lasting effect. Ortho claims it can keep weeds at bay for up to a year, which I found to be true in my gravel walkway. After one application, I didn’t see new growth for nearly 10 months, even through a rainy spring.

However, it’s not water-resistant right away; you need a dry window of about two hours post-application to ensure it sticks.

Pros of Ortho GroundClear

• Fast-Acting: I’ve watched weeds shrivel in as little as one to three hours, making it ideal for quick results.
• Long-Lasting: One application can prevent regrowth for up to a year, saving you time and effort.
• Versatile Application: Works on hardscapes like sidewalks or areas where you want zero vegetation.
• Effective on Tough Weeds: It tackles heavyweights like dandelions, clover, and even woody brush with ease.

Cons of Ortho GroundClear

• Non-Selective Nature: It kills everything, so I’ve learned to be extra careful around my roses and veggies.
• Pricey: At $20-$30 for a 32 oz. concentrate, it’s pricier than some alternatives.
• Environmental Impact: Imazapyr can linger in soil, potentially affecting nearby plants or water sources if misapplied.
• Not Immediately Rainproof: A sudden shower within two hours can wash it away, forcing a reapplication.

Exploring Roundup: The Flexible Fighter

Roundup, made by Monsanto, is practically a household name. I remember my dad swearing by it for his lawn, and it’s still a go-to for many gardeners.

Unlike Ortho’s one-size-fits-all approach, Roundup offers a range of formulas, from non-selective versions for total weed annihilation to selective ones that spare your lawn while targeting weeds.

Key Features of Roundup

Roundup’s primary active ingredient is glyphosate, with some products like Roundup for Lawns adding pelargonic acid for faster results.

It comes in various forms: ready-to-use sprays, concentrates, and even a “Max Control 365” version that promises year-long weed prevention.

I’ve used the Roundup Ready-To-Use Weed & Grass Killer with its Comfort Wand, and it’s a breeze for spot-treating weeds in my flower beds.

Roundup’s systemic action means it’s absorbed through leaves and travels to the roots, killing the plant from within. I noticed results within three hours, though tougher weeds like thistles took closer to 12.

It’s rainproof in as little as 10-30 minutes, which is a big plus in unpredictable weather. The selective formulas, like Roundup for Lawns, are designed to kill weeds like crabgrass and dandelions without harming grasses like fescue or zoysia.

Pros of Roundup

• Flexible Options: Selective formulas let you target weeds without killing your lawn, which I love for my front yard.
• Quick Rainproofing: Most products are rainproof in 10-30 minutes, so I don’t stress about sudden showers.
• Cost-Effective: At $15-$25 for a 32 oz. concentrate, it’s generally cheaper than Ortho.
• Wide Availability: You can find Roundup at almost any hardware store or online, often with deals on Amazon.

Cons of Roundup

• Slower Action: It can take 3-12 hours for visible results, which tests my patience compared to Ortho.
• Shorter Duration: Even the Max Control 365 version may only last 4-12 months, depending on conditions.
• Health Concerns: Glyphosate’s “probably carcinogenic” label by the WHO makes me cautious, especially around my kids and pets.
• Less Effective on Tough Weeds: I’ve had to reapply for stubborn plants like ground ivy, which can be frustrating.

Comparing Application Scenarios: Where Each Shines

When I’m deciding between Ortho and Roundup, it comes down to what I’m trying to achieve. If I need to clear a gravel driveway or a patio where I want nothing growing, Ortho GroundClear is my pick.

Its non-selective nature and year-long control make it perfect for these “scorched earth” scenarios. I used it on a weedy brick path last summer, and the results were dramatic—no growth for months.

For my lawn or garden beds, where I want to keep my grass or flowers intact, Roundup’s selective formulas are a lifesaver. I’ve used Roundup for Lawns to zap dandelions without harming my Kentucky bluegrass, and it worked like a charm.

The trade-off is that Roundup might need reapplication sooner, especially for tough weeds.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

Both products have raised eyebrows when it comes to safety.

Glyphosate, found in both Ortho and Roundup, has been linked to potential health risks, including cancer concerns flagged by the World Health Organization.

I always wear gloves, a mask, and long sleeves when spraying either product, and I keep my dog indoors until it’s dry.

Ortho’s imazapyr adds another layer of concern—it’s potent and can linger in soil, potentially harming nearby plants or contaminating water if you’re not careful.

I’ve also noticed Roundup’s selective formulas give me a bit more peace of mind in areas where I’m growing vegetables or flowers. Still, both require careful application. I make sure to spray on calm, sunny days to avoid drift onto desired plants.

If you’re eco-conscious, you might explore organic alternatives like vinegar-based weed killers, though I’ve found they’re less effective on tough weeds.

Cost and Accessibility: What’s Your Budget?

Price is a big factor for me. Ortho GroundClear tends to be pricier, with a 32 oz. concentrate costing $20-$30, while Roundup’s equivalent is usually $15-$25.

If I’m treating a large area, Roundup’s lower cost is appealing, especially since I can find it at Home Depot, Lowes, or Amazon with frequent discounts. Ortho’s higher price tag feels justified for its longer-lasting effects, but it’s a tougher sell if you’re on a tight budget.

Both brands offer various sizes and application methods, from small spray bottles for spot treatments to large concentrates for big jobs. I prefer concentrates for cost savings, mixing them in a tank sprayer for even coverage.

Roundup’s Comfort Wand is a nice touch for quick jobs, though Ortho’s battery-powered wand is equally user-friendly.

My Personal Experience: Trial and Error in the Garden

Last spring, I tackled a weedy corner of my backyard with Ortho GroundClear. The area was overrun with crabgrass and clover, and I wanted it gone for good. I mixed the concentrate as directed, sprayed on a sunny morning, and by lunchtime, the weeds were visibly wilting.

A week later, the area was clear, and it stayed that way through fall.

The downside?

I accidentally got some on a nearby shrub, and it didn’t survive. Lesson learned: precision is key with Ortho.

Roundup came into play when I noticed dandelions popping up in my lawn. I used Roundup for Lawns, which promised to spare my grass.

It took about six hours to see the weeds yellowing, and after a week, they were gone.

However, some tougher weeds needed a second round, which was a bit of a hassle. Still, my lawn stayed green, and I appreciated not having to reseed.

Which Is the Strongest?

From an analytical standpoint, Ortho GroundClear is the stronger weed killer due to its combination of glyphosate and imazapyr. Imazapyr’s ability to penetrate deep into plant tissues and prevent regrowth gives Ortho an edge for permanent weed control in non-crop areas.

Roundup’s glyphosate is effective, but without imazapyr, it’s less aggressive on tough, perennial weeds. However, Roundup’s selective formulas make it more versatile for lawn care, where preserving grass is crucial.

The choice depends on your goals. If you need a nuclear option for a weed-infested driveway, Ortho’s your weapon. If you’re maintaining a lawn or garden, Roundup’s targeted approach is safer and more practical.

Both have environmental and health risks, so I always weigh the trade-offs and use them sparingly.

Tips For Effective Use

Here’s what I’ve learned from using both products:

• Read the Label: Both Ortho and Roundup have specific mixing and application instructions. Follow them to avoid mishaps.
• Timing Matters: Apply on a warm, sunny day with no wind to maximize effectiveness and minimize drift.
• Protect Desired Plants: Use a cardboard shield or careful aim to avoid hitting flowers or grass you want to keep.
• Store Safely: Keep these chemicals locked away from kids and pets, as they’re toxic if ingested.
• Consider Alternatives: If you’re wary of chemicals, try manual weeding or organic solutions for smaller areas, though they require more elbow grease.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion: Making Your Choice

You’re standing at a crossroads, just like I was, staring down a weed-choked garden or driveway. Ortho GroundClear and Roundup are both powerful tools, but they serve different purposes.

If you need to obliterate every plant in sight and keep them gone for a year, Ortho’s your go-to. If you’re nurturing a lawn or garden and want to target weeds without collateral damage, Roundup’s selective formulas are the way to go.

Weigh your needs, consider the safety concerns, and choose what fits your space. Let’s keep those weeds in check and make your outdoor space shine!