When to Apply Pre-Emergent Herbicides
Ground Ivy Killers
Ground ivy, also known as creeping charlie, spreads through shaded, moist turf faster than most homeowners can keep up with by hand-pulling, which is exactly why a dedicated ground ivy killer is worth having on hand. DIY Pest Control stocks selective herbicides that target this stubborn perennial without harming the turfgrass around it.
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Get Rid of Ground Ivy Without Damaging Your Lawn
Ground ivy is one of the toughest broadleaf weeds to eliminate because it roots wherever its leaves touch soil, creeping across shaded and moist areas of the yard and forming a thick mat that outcompetes turfgrass for nutrients. A single missed patch can spread back across an entire lawn within a season, which is why a targeted ground ivy herbicide applied correctly the first time saves both effort and money.
How to Identify Ground Ivy
Ground ivy, formally known as Glechoma hederacea, has rounded, scalloped leaves that grow between 1/2 inch and 1.5 inches wide on stalks that extend away from the stem, along with small lavender or purple flowers that bloom near the foliage. This evergreen perennial thrives in shady, low-wooded areas and disturbed sites like roadsides, and it stays active nearly year-round rather than dying back like many annual weeds. Confirming the identification before buying a ground ivy weed killer helps avoid wasted applications on a similar-looking species.
Choosing the Right Ground Ivy Treatment
T-Zone SE combines four active ingredients to knock down ground ivy along with wild violet, oxalis, and other stubborn broadleaf weeds in cool-season turf. Hi-Yield Triclopyr Ester is formulated specifically for tough perennials like ground ivy in bluegrass, ryegrass, and tall fescue lawns. For smaller, contained patches where turf damage is not a concern, Bonide Poison Ivy & Brush Killer BK-32 delivers fast results in a single application. Homeowners managing a broader mix of weeds alongside ground ivy often turn to 3 Way Max Turf and Ornamental Broadleaf Herbicide for its three-active-ingredient formula. Whichever herbicide for ground ivy you choose, plan on repeat applications, since this perennial rarely clears in a single treatment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is ground ivy and why is it hard to control?
Ground ivy, or Creeping Charlie, is an evergreen perennial that roots at every leaf node, allowing it to spread across soil quickly and regrow from any section left behind. Its ability to root this way is why a single herbicide pass often is not enough.
What herbicide works best on ground ivy?
Selective herbicides containing triclopyr or dicamba, such as those found in T-Zone SE or Hi-Yield Triclopyr Ester, are among the most effective options for controlling ground ivy without harming established turf.
When should I apply ground ivy control products?
Fall is the ideal window, since ground ivy is actively storing energy in its roots at that time and herbicides translocate more effectively throughout the plant. A follow-up spring application often catches any regrowth missed the first time.
Is ground ivy harmful to pets or people?
Ground ivy itself is not typically dangerous, but it can overtake desirable turf and outcompete grass for light and nutrients. Always follow product labels for pet safety guidelines when applying any herbicide.
Why does ground ivy keep coming back after I treat it?
Its creeping stems root at each node, so any untreated section can regenerate the entire patch. A thorough application covering the full mat, combined with a follow-up treatment, gives the best long-term control.
Stop Creeping Charlie Before It Spreads Further
Do not let Creeping Charlie take over another season. Shop our selective ground ivy herbicides above, or call 1-800-476-3368 to talk through the best treatment plan for your lawn.
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Characteristics
- Glechoma hederacea
- also know as Creeping Charlie
- cool season perennial weed (year-long cycle)
- round leaves
- grows well in shade
- square shaped stem
- funnel-shaped small blue flowers in spring
Treatment
Selective
- a wide variety of these herbicides available
- best time to apply is the spring and fall during active growth
- apply in 4-5 week intervals
- do not apply during the summer
- look for products that contain dicamba, 2, 4-D or any generic 3-way product
- thoroughly read over the label
- use a hand-held or backpack sprayer to broadcast in problem areas
- Make sure to properly identify your grass to make sure that the herbicide is safe for your lawn.  Choose your grass below to filter for products that are safe for your lawn:
Non-Selective
- spot treat for smaller areas where other vegetation will not be damagedÂ
- only apply to targeted weed
- look for products containing glyphosate as well as products labeled for bareground treatment
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