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Updated Oct 14, 2022
Updated Oct 14, 2022
Also known as ground ivy, creeping Charlie is a fast-spreading and resilient weed capable of growing in either sun or shade. Because of its ability to spread quickly and envelop other vegetation, this invasive, troublesome plant can frequently be seen covering full lawns and large areas of land.
Creeping Charlie is part of the mint family and has small, scallop-edged, green leaves that grow low to the ground like ivy. In the spring, it grows small, blue flowers. This plant is capable of growing in many conditions but prefers moist and shaded areas. Though pretty at times, it’s a menace to deal with when it takes over your landscaping.
You can remove creeping Charlie from your lawn, but this can be a huge project because of the plant’s resilience and strong roots. Remove this plant as soon as you notice it, before giving it a chance to spread. Here are a few ways to get rid of creeping Charlie.
Hand removing creeping Charlie is hard work, but not impossible. Here are a few guidelines to make the project go smoothly.
Herbicide involves the least amount of physical work and might make the most sense if the plant has seriously taken over your lawn. However, the herbicide is strong and kills most vegetation, so be sure to use it with care and follow directions. Herbicides with dicamba and triclopyr are the most common and effective options for treating creeping Charlie.
Keep in mind that the best time to apply herbicide is in the fall before creeping Charlie goes dormant, or in the spring when it’s flowering.
Creeping Charlie can also be smothered with a layer of cardboard or newspaper. Though the plant grows well in low light, it will die if all light is blocked.
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