Gear I Use

See the lawn care gear I use and review, including smart irrigation, sprayers, aerators, lawn tools, accessories and more from Lawn & Order Texas Edition.

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Smart Irrigation

Rachio 3 Sprinkler Controller

Rachio 3 Sprinkler Controller

One of my favorite products. Water like a pro with smarter schedules, less waste, weather monitoring, and an easy-to-use interface.

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Aiper IrriSense Smart Sprinkler System

Aiper IrriSense Smart Sprinkler

I tested the IrriSense on my property and it works well for automated watering with app control. My biggest complaint is that it requires a power cord, unlike its main solar-powered competitor. If you can work around the power requirement, it is a capable way to add automated irrigation without installing an in-ground system.

Aerators

Agri-Fab 48-inch Aerator

Agri-Fab 48-inch Plug Aerator

The aerator I currently own and use. It does an excellent job pulling plugs and relieving compaction across a larger lawn. My main frustration is the long transport handle, which can make garage storage awkward.

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Brinly 48-inch Tow-Behind Plug Aerator

Brinly 48" Tow-Behind Plug Aerator

A full-size 48-inch alternative for larger lawns. Brinly lists 32 heat-treated plugging spoons, up to 3-inch cores and a 200-pound weight tray. I have not personally tested this aerator, but I own other Brinly equipment and have had excellent customer support from the company.

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Brinly 42-inch Plug Aerator with Easy-Store Handle

Brinly 42" Plug Aerator with Easy-Store Handle

This one caught my attention because the transport handle folds up and out of the way for storage. That directly addresses one of my biggest frustrations with traditional tow-behind aerators. Brinly lists up to 3-inch soil cores and a 175-pound weight tray. I have not personally tested this model yet.

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Agri-Fab Replacement Aerator Knives

Replacement Knives for Agri-Fab Aerator

Keep your Agri-Fab aerator biting into compacted soil season after season with fresh replacement knives.

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See the Agri-Fab 48-inch Aerator in Action

Herbicides

How I choose herbicides for my Bermuda lawn: these are not products I use all at once. I choose a pre-emergent based on the season and the weeds I am trying to prevent, then choose a post-emergent only when I have a labeled weed that needs treatment. Similar products are often alternatives, not additions to the same spray. Turf condition, temperature, previous applications, annual limits and the current product label all matter.

Pre-Emergent / Prevention

These are primarily about stopping weeds before they establish. I normally choose the product that fits that application window rather than automatically stacking multiple pre-emergents.

Dimension 2EW Herbicide
Pre-EmergentSpring / Fall

Dimension 2EW Herbicide

A liquid dithiopyr pre-emergent I have used in my Bermuda program. It prevents many annual grassy and broadleaf weeds, including Poa annua, and has the added advantage of early post-emergent activity on young crabgrass.

When I use it: As a spring or fall prevention option when I want dithiopyr in the program. I treat it as an alternative to Prodiamine for that application window, not something I automatically add on top of it.

Prodiamine 65 WDG Generic Barricade
Pre-EmergentSpring / Fall

Prodiamine 65 WDG (Generic Barricade)

One of my primary pre-emergent tools. It is a water-dispersible granule that I mix and spray for annual grassy and broadleaf weed prevention, including Poa annua.

When I use it: Before germination in my spring and fall prevention program. This is prevention, not a rescue treatment for weeds that are already established. I track previous applications and the label's annual limits.

Specialty Poa Annua Control

Ethofumesate is different from a simple spring pre-emergent. Its label provides both pre-emergent and early post-emergent activity and includes specific dormant-Bermuda timing.

Ethofumesate 4SC Select Selective Herbicide
Pre + Early PostPoa AnnuaDormant Bermuda

Ethofumesate 4SC Select

A specialty Poa annua tool with both pre-emergent and early post-emergent activity. The current label includes ornamental turf and dormant Bermudagrass, but identifies the product as intended for commercial use only.

When I consider it: Late fall into the dormant-Bermuda period as part of a targeted cool-season Poa program, only within the label's Bermuda timing and restrictions. This is not something I treat as a routine substitute for every Prodiamine or Dimension application.

Post-Emergent / Active Weeds

These come out after I identify the weed that is actually present. I select the product for the target weed and conditions rather than combining several post-emergents just because I have them on the shelf.

SpeedZone EW Broadleaf Herbicide
Post-EmergentBroadleaf

HOT! My GO-TO! SpeedZone Post-Emergent

My go-to fast-knockdown broadleaf herbicide. It has worked extremely well for me on weeds such as aster and is labeled for established common and hybrid Bermudagrass.

When I use it: When broadleaf weeds are actively present and the Bermuda and weather conditions fit the label. The current SpeedZone EW label advises against winter-to-spring and fall-to-winter transition applications and calls for lower warm-season rates above 90°F.

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Katana Turf Herbicide
Post-EmergentPoa / Grassy Weeds

Katana Turf Herbicide

I used Katana on Poa and it did REALLY WELL for me, with visible results starting in about three days. It uses very small amounts and the label covers established Bermudagrass plus several other warm-season turfgrasses.

When I use it: For labeled Poa annua and other susceptible grassy/sedge weeds when I want active post-emergent control. The label calls for a non-ionic surfactant for maximum performance. I do not automatically stack it with Certainty or Negate for the same Poa treatment.

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Certainty Herbicide
Post-EmergentSedge / Cool-Season Grasses

Certainty Herbicide

A selective post-emergent for warm-season turf that I keep for sedges and labeled cool-season grasses. The product information includes annual bluegrass suppression and control of several other cool-season grasses in Bermudagrass.

When I use it: When the target weed fits the Certainty label and I want a more gradual selective treatment. Certainty calls for a non-ionic surfactant. For Poa, I view Certainty, Katana and Negate as different tools to choose between, not an automatic three-product mix.

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Negate 37WG Herbicide
Post-EmergentPoa / Mixed Weeds

Negate Herbicide

A post-emergent labeled for Bermudagrass and Zoysiagrass that targets Poa annua plus a broad group of grassy and broadleaf weeds. I like the faster visual response when Poa is active and visible.

When I use it: When Poa or another labeled weed is already up and actively growing. I am cautious around Bermuda transition because the label notes that effects during transition have not been fully evaluated.

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MSM Turf Herbicide
Post-EmergentBroadleaf / Grassy Weeds

MSM Turf Herbicide

Metsulfuron-methyl herbicide labeled for Bermudagrass and a wide range of susceptible broadleaf and grassy weeds. It is another targeted tool, not something I automatically add to every post-emergent spray.

When I use it: For a labeled weed where MSM is the better fit, often as a targeted treatment. The current product information says not to apply it to turf less than one year old. I check the weed list and turf restrictions before choosing it over SpeedZone or another post-emergent.

Non-ionic surfactant for herbicide applications
Mixing Helper

Surfactant

Helps improve wetting and coverage when the herbicide label calls for it. Some products in my cabinet specifically call for a non-ionic surfactant, while others may not.

When I use it: Only when the label for the herbicide/application calls for or permits it. I do not automatically add surfactant to every tank.

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Don't stack herbicides blindly. Physical tank compatibility does not automatically mean a combination is appropriate for the lawn that day. I check every current label for the target weed, turf species, temperature/timing restrictions, annual limits, required adjuvants and tank-mix directions. When products overlap, I usually choose the one that best fits the weed and application window rather than assuming more chemistry is better.

Fertilizers

LESCO Stonewall

Lesco's Stonewall 0.43% (0-0-7)

Pre-em power that keeps weeds in the courtroom, not your lawn.

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Lesco 12-0-0 Iron

Lesco's 12-0-0 Chelated Iron

Instant pop, Texas green without the burn.

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Lesco 14-0-7

Lesco's 14-0-7 + Pre-E

Feed the lawn, block the weeds, two birds, one spread.

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LockUp Extra

Lesco's LockUp Extra 17-0-4

Post-em punch in a granular blend. SiteOne exclusive.

Shop SiteOne
Lesco 28-3-10

POPULAR PRODUCT! Lesco's 28-3-10

High-octane feed for thick, quick color.

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Supplements & Nutrients

12-0-0 Iron Plus

12-0-0 Chelated Liquid Iron Plus (5-Gal)

Bulk iron for big greens, stunning color. Follow label instructions.

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18-3-6 1G

18-3-6 (1-Gallon)

Balanced for steady growth & color. Follow label instructions.

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18-3-6 Seaweed

18-3-6 + Seaweed & Fulvic (2.5-Gal)

Micros + macros, the lawn’s multivitamin. Follow label instructions.

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Chelated Iron

Chelated Iron

Quick green-up without a nitrogen spike. Follow label instructions.

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Lesco 24-0-11

Lesco 24-0-11

Summer-smart feed, steady and safe. Follow label instructions.

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Lesco 24-2-11

Lesco 24-2-11

A little P, a lot of green, good stuff! Follow label instructions.

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Lesco 18-24-12

Lesco 18-24-12

Starter blend for new seed/sod projects. Follow label instructions.

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Lawn Dye

Green turf dye

Green Turf Dye

Temporary green dye for dormant grass so you can mark where you’ve been.

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Blue turf dye

Blue Turf Dye

Temporary blue dye for green grass so you can mark where you’ve been.

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4X green spray dye

4X Green Spray Dye

Ultra-concentrated green lawn dye that makes up to 128 gallons and helps create a visible spray pattern.

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Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Always follow product labels and local regulations.

Spreaders

Agri-Fab 130lb Push

Agri-Fab 130lb Push

Big hopper, even spread, weekend warrior approved.

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Agri-Fab 130lb Tow

Agri-Fab 130lb Pull-Behind

Hook it up and cover acres without breaking a sweat.

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Agri-Fab 85lb

Agri-Fab 85lb

Compact workhorse, perfect for most yards.

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Dethatcher / Sweeper

Brinly Sweeper/Dethatcher

Brinly Sweeper/Dethatcher

Lift the thatch, sweep it clean, all in one pass.

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Brinly Sweeper

Brinly Lawn Sweeper

Leaves? Clippings? Gone, like they never happened.

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3/4 x 48 Dowel

3/4" x 48" Dowel (Support Bar)

DIY brace for a sturdier pull, simple and effective (see my video for why).

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1/2 PVC Caps

1/2" PVC Caps

Small parts that make big ideas work (see my video why).

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Brinly Pinion Kit

Brinly Pinion Kit

Refresh the drivetrain, keep that sweeper hungry.

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See It in Action

Sprayers

NorthStar Sprayers: These sprayers are popular and can sell out quickly on Amazon, so individual sizes may come and go. Use the Amazon link below to see all currently available NorthStar sprayers and gallon capacities. You can also find NorthStar sprayers directly from Northern Tool.

View All on Amazon   Shop at Northern Tool
NorthStar 21G

NorthStar 21-Gallon

Entry tank with pro results, smooth pressure, clean coverage.

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NorthStar 31G

NorthStar 31-Gallon

More capacity, fewer refills, get it done in one pass.

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NorthStar 41G

NorthStar 41-Gallon

My large-lawn pick: 41 gallons, 4 GPM pump, five-nozzle boom and a hand wand that reaches.

Read My Full 41-Gallon Review
NorthStar 61G

NorthStar 61-Gallon

Acreage tamer, bring the heat to big properties.

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Chapin 97902 12-gallon rechargeable push sprayer

Chapin 97902 12-Gallon Battery Push Sprayer

A capable push sprayer for a fraction of the price of some larger systems. The hand wand puts out plenty of spray, the front spray height can be adjusted as you walk, and the wand can sit on the tank lid for spraying to either side. Assembly instructions could be much better, the switch connectors are fragile, and I recommend greasing the axle and making sure the wheel washers are installed. A buddy and I also added two TeeJet nozzles to widen the pattern. It took a little tinkering, but the finished setup does a very good job.

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See the NorthStar 41-Gallon Sprayer in Action

Want the full breakdown? Read my dedicated NorthStar 41-Gallon review for setup notes, size comparisons and buying options.

Full-size Mower Parts & Shop Gear

Oregon blades Scag 61

Oregon Blades (Scag 61")

Reliable cut, durable edge, keep the Cheetah mean.

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8Ten LawnRazor

8Ten LawnRazor Blades

Budget blades that still bite hard.

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Adjustable lawn mower blade sharpener

Adjustable Mower Blade Sharpener

I bought three different Amazon sharpeners and kept this one. The solid grinder arm, larger metal screw handle and sturdy construction combined the best features of the others. The 15°–45° adjustment makes it useful for standard straight mower blades. My only wish is that it included lag bolts for mounting to a wooden bench.

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THINKWORK 8000 PSI pistol grip grease gun kit

THINKWORK 8000 PSI Grease Gun

Better built than I expected for the price. The pistol grip works smoothly in tighter spots, and the lock-on coupler is the standout feature. It stays securely on the fitting with less slipping and mess, making routine mower greasing much less frustrating.

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Scag Cat's Eye Gold touch-up paint

Scag Cat’s Eye Gold Touch-Up Paint

It is expensive for a 0.6-ounce bottle, but the color match on my Scag has been excellent. I use it to touch up small wear spots on the deck where components make contact. A small bottle, but useful if you want factory-looking touch-ups.

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Lawn & Soil Tools

Landzie 48-inch lawn leveling rake

Landzie 48" Lawn Leveling Rake

This helped me spread and level soil across the front lawn. The wide head moves material efficiently, and I like that the handle design lets the rake stand on its own when I stop working. It made a big leveling project considerably easier.

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Landzie 6-foot tow-behind drag harrow driveway grader

Landzie 6' Drag Harrow

A heavy-duty pull-behind leveler that is oddly satisfying to use. Even without extra weight it does a good job breaking down dirt clods and spreading loose material. Chains are included, and you can add cinder blocks when you need more bite.

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Cleaning & Outdoor Equipment

Westinghouse ePX3100 electric pressure washer

Westinghouse ePX3100 Pressure Washer

I bought this because my gas pressure washer was too loud for early-morning cleaning when I was trying to beat the Texas heat. This electric unit is much quieter and works well for washing vehicles. I use the green tip on my cars, and it also works nicely with a foam sprayer.

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Trimming & Edging

ECHO Black Diamond 0.095-inch premium trimmer line 253-foot spool

ECHO Black Diamond .095" Trimmer Line

My go-to trimmer line for Bermuda. My trimmer recommends .105", but this .095" Black Diamond surprised me with a cleaner cut and excellent durability around curbs, fence lines and thicker patches. The 253-foot spool also lasts a long time.

Amazon: Single 253-ft Spool Amazon: 3-Pack

Magnetic Hitch Options

CZC AUTO 1/2-inch Orange Magnetic Hitch Pin

CZC AUTO 1/2” Magnetic Hitch

A viewer favorite and one of the strongest-selling accessories through my Amazon links. Great for quick one-handed hookup of carts, spreaders, sweepers and other tow-behind gear.

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5/8 Orange Magnet

5/8” Orange

Beefier shank for heavier rigs.

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Green Magnet

Green

Pick your team color, same grip, greener drip.

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Red Magnet

Red

Bright, bold, and tractor-ready.

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Yellow Magnet

Yellow

Hard to miss, easy to love.

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Tree & Shrub Care

Root Feeder kit

Root Feeder (Bottle + Accessories)

Deep-feed trees so the canopy thanks you.

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Tried and True Root Feeder

Tried & True Root Feeder

Old faithful, simple, sturdy, effective.

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Yellow root feeder

Yellow Root Feeder

The one I still own, gets the job done.

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BioAdvanced 12-Month Protect and Feed

BioAdvanced 12-Month Protect & Feed

One application, year-long peace of mind.

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See My Tree Care Setup in Action

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Amazon availability changes frequently. If a featured item is unavailable, the link may open Amazon search results for that exact product instead of a different model. Always follow product labels and local regulations.