Best Creeping Charlie Weed Killers for Effective Lawn Control

You know that feeling, right? You walk out onto your beautifully manicured lawn, ready to enjoy a quiet morning coffee, and there it is – that tenacious, vibrant green, creeping vine with its small purple flowers. Creeping Charlie. I’ve been there countless times, battling this persistent invader in my own yard, and trust me, finding the best creeping charlie weed killers for effective lawn control can feel like a quest. It’s not just about spraying something; it’s about choosing the right product that targets this resilient weed without harming your precious grass. After a fair share of trial and error, I’ve gathered some insights on what truly works. In this guide, we’ll dive into some of the most reliable options available, looking at their practical benefits, how they perform in the real world, and ultimately, help you reclaim your lawn from Creeping Charlie’s grasp.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray, Kills…	View on Amazon
	Ortho Weed B-gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer for…	View on Amazon
	Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Use with Comfort…	View on Amazon
	Gordon’s SpeedZone Lawn Weed Killer, 20 Ounces, 652400	View on Amazon
	PBI/GORDON Trimec Lawn Weed Killer, one gallon	View on Amazon

Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray, Kills…

If you’re looking for a broad-spectrum solution that’s easy to apply, this Ortho WeedClear Ready-To-Spray option is a fantastic starting point. I’ve found it to be particularly effective on younger, actively growing Creeping Charlie, really getting down to the root. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of product once you’ve connected it to your hose, making large area treatment a breeze. The formula is designed to attack a wide range of common lawn weeds, so it’s a great all-rounder for general lawn maintenance, ensuring your lawn grasses stay safe while the weeds disappear.

• Key Features:

  • Kills over 250 types of weeds, including Creeping Charlie, dandelion, clover, and crabgrass.
  • Fast-acting formula delivers visible results after just one application.
  • Safe for most common lawn grasses like Bermudagrass, Fescues, and Kentucky Bluegrass when used as directed.
  • Ready-to-spray design connects directly to your garden hose for effortless broadcast application.
  • A 32 oz container treats up to 5,000 sq. ft., ideal for medium to large lawns.

• Pros:

  • Very easy to use, simply connect to a hose and spray.
  • Effective on a wide variety of weeds, not just Creeping Charlie.
  • Won’t harm your lawn when applied correctly.
  • Good coverage for larger areas.

• Cons:

  • Not available in certain states (FL, GU, HI, LA).
  • Requires a garden hose connection.

• Best for: Homeowners with medium to large lawns needing a general-purpose weed killer that’s especially good at tackling Creeping Charlie and other broadleaf weeds with minimal effort.

User feedback summary: Many users praise its simplicity and effectiveness, noting that they saw significant weed die-off within a week, especially on Creeping Charlie and clover. Some mentioned reapplications were needed for very dense patches, but overall satisfaction was high for ease of use and results.

Ortho Weed B-gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer for Lawns Concentrate

For those really stubborn weeds, especially the close relatives of Creeping Charlie like chickweed, clover, and oxalis, this concentrate version of Ortho Weed B-gon steps up to the plate. What I appreciate about this product is its focused approach; it’s formulated to kill these particular invaders, making it a powerful weapon against aggressive broadleaf weeds. Being a concentrate, it offers excellent value and flexibility for mixing exactly what you need, although it does require a separate sprayer. The rainproof in 6 hours feature is a huge plus, giving you peace of mind if a pop-up shower is in the forecast.

• Key Features:

  • Specifically formulated to kill tough weeds like chickweed, clover, oxalis, ground ivy, speedwell, and wild violet (all common companions or look-alikes of Creeping Charlie).
  • Rainproof within 6 hours of application, preventing wash-off.
  • Designed for application on specific lawn grasses including Buffalograss, Fescues, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass.
  • Concentrate formula allows for custom mixing and cost-effective treatment.
  • Best applied when weeds are actively growing and temperatures are below 90°F.

• Pros:

  • Highly effective on the specific weeds it targets, including Creeping Charlie.
  • Good value as a concentrate, providing many applications.
  • Rainproof quickly after application.
  • Gives you control over application strength (within recommended guidelines).

• Cons:

  • Requires mixing in a separate tank sprayer.
  • Not suitable for all grass types (always check your lawn type).
  • Temperature restrictions for application.

• Best for: Homeowners dealing with persistent patches of chickweed, clover, oxalis, and Creeping Charlie who prefer the control and cost-effectiveness of a concentrate.

User feedback summary: Users frequently mention the product’s efficacy against stubborn broadleaf weeds, noting that it often outperforms general weed killers on these specific targets. The need for mixing was sometimes cited as a minor inconvenience, but the long-term results and value were consistently praised.

Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Use with Comfort Wand

Sometimes, you don’t need to treat your entire lawn; you just have those annoying, isolated patches of Creeping Charlie popping up. That’s where the Ortho WeedClear Ready-to-Use with Comfort Wand shines. I’ve found this product indispensable for precision spot treatment. The battery-powered Comfort Wand makes targeting individual weeds incredibly easy and reduces hand fatigue, which is a lifesaver when you have a lot of small areas to tackle. It’s the same effective formula as the ready-to-spray version but packaged for convenience and accuracy, killing weeds like Creeping Charlie down to the root with minimal effort.

• Key Features:

  • Ready-to-use formula requires no mixing or hose connection.
  • Includes a battery-powered Comfort Wand for accurate, fatigue-free spot treatment.
  • Kills a wide range of common lawn weeds, including Creeping Charlie, crabgrass, dandelion, and clover, down to the root.
  • Won’t harm common lawn grasses like Bermudagrass, Fescues, and Kentucky Bluegrass when used as directed.
  • Ideal for spot treatment of young, actively growing weeds in spring or fall.

• Pros:

  • Extremely convenient for spot treatment – just point and spray.
  • Comfort Wand makes application precise and easy on your hand.
  • Fast-acting and effective on targeted weeds.
  • No mixing or setup required.

• Cons:

  • Less economical for very large, widespread infestations compared to concentrates or hose-end sprayers.
  • Requires batteries for the wand (usually included).

• Best for: Gardeners and homeowners needing precise spot treatment for Creeping Charlie and other weeds, especially in smaller areas or for touch-ups.

User feedback summary: Users consistently highlight the ease and convenience of the Comfort Wand, stating it makes quick work of individual weeds. Many appreciate that it eliminates the need for mixing or bulky sprayers, making it their go-to for localized weed control.

Gordon’s SpeedZone Lawn Weed Killer, 20 Ounces, 652400

When you need results fast, Gordon’s SpeedZone is often the answer. I’ve seen this product deliver visible results in just hours, which is incredibly satisfying when you’re desperate to see Creeping Charlie start to wilt. It’s a powerful concentrate designed for rapid action on a broad spectrum of weeds, and what’s even better, it’s known for its cool weather performance, making it a great option for spring or fall applications when other products might be less effective. Don’t let its commercial-grade strength intimidate you; it’s still safe for most turfgrasses when used as directed.

• Key Features:

  • Delivers visible weed control results in hours, not days.
  • Rapid and effective control for many common and troublesome weed species, including Creeping Charlie.
  • Excellent cool weather performance, extending your application window.
  • Safe for most turfgrasses and allows for re-seeding in just two weeks.
  • A 20 oz bottle can cover a large area, from 14,000 to 18,000 square feet, making it very economical for big properties.

• Pros:

  • Extremely fast-acting, providing quick gratification.
  • Highly effective on a wide range of tough weeds.
  • Works well in cooler temperatures, unlike many other weed killers.
  • High coverage rate per bottle.

• Cons:

  • Higher upfront cost (though offset by coverage).
  • Restricted shipping to certain states (AK, DC, MA, NJ, VT).
  • Requires careful mixing and application via a separate sprayer.

• Best for: Homeowners with large properties or anyone needing very fast, effective Creeping Charlie control, especially in cooler weather, who are comfortable mixing concentrates.

User feedback summary: Users are consistently impressed by the speed and power of SpeedZone, often reporting significant weed reduction within a day. Many consider it a “go-to” for severe weed infestations, appreciating its ability to tackle tough weeds that other products struggled with.

PBI/GORDON Trimec Lawn Weed Killer, one gallon

For a foundational, heavy-duty solution against tough broadleaf weeds like Creeping Charlie, PBI/GORDON Trimec is a classic. This is another concentrate that brings professional-grade power to your home lawn. What stands out to me about Trimec is its reliability on hard-to-control lawn weeds over a large area. The one-gallon size offers substantial coverage for those with widespread issues, making it a solid investment. It’s particularly formulated for cool-season grasses, so if you have Fescue or Kentucky Bluegrass, this could be your champion for effective lawn control.

• Key Features:

  • Specifically designed to kill hard-to-control lawn weeds, including Creeping Charlie, clover, dandelion, and more.
  • Highly effective for use on cool-season grasses, ensuring your desired turf isn’t harmed.
  • The one-gallon size provides extensive coverage for large-scale weed problems.
  • A reliable, professional-grade formula for consistent results.
  • No assembly required (though mixing in a sprayer is necessary).

• Pros:

  • Very effective on a wide array of stubborn weeds.
  • Large volume provides great value for big lawns.
  • Reliable, well-established product in the weed control market.
  • Formulated for common cool-season grasses.

• Cons:

  • Requires mixing and a separate sprayer.
  • Primarily for cool-season grasses, so not universal for all lawn types.
  • Might not offer the “visible in hours” speed of some competitors.

• Best for: Homeowners with cool-season grasses and extensive Creeping Charlie or other broadleaf weed problems, who need a strong, reliable concentrate for long-term effective lawn control.

User feedback summary: Many long-time users vouch for Trimec’s consistent performance on broadleaf weeds, often calling it their “old reliable” for annual weed control. They appreciate the large quantity for extensive areas and its effectiveness on weeds that seem resistant to other products.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When choosing the best creeping charlie weed killer for your lawn, it really boils down to your lawn’s size, your weed’s density, and your preference for application. If you have a large lawn with widespread Creeping Charlie, the Ortho WeedClear Ready-To-Spray offers incredible ease with its hose-end application, covering vast areas without manual mixing. Similarly, Gordon’s SpeedZone and PBI/GORDON Trimec are powerhouses in concentrate form, offering superior coverage and professional-grade strength for those extensive infestations, especially on cool-season grasses for Trimec. SpeedZone really shines with its fastest visible results and cool-weather performance, a huge advantage for proactive gardeners.

For targeted attacks on specific, stubborn broadleaf weeds like chickweed or the more resilient Creeping Charlie, the Ortho Weed B-gon Concentrate is a focused solution that brings a lot of punch in a smaller dose. If precision and convenience for spot treatment are your main priorities, the Ortho WeedClear Ready-to-Use with Comfort Wand is unmatched. It lets you zap individual Creeping Charlie patches without the fuss of mixing or lugging a sprayer, making it perfect for quick touch-ups or smaller yards. While concentrates often provide better long-term value, ready-to-use options save time and effort. Always remember to check the product’s compatibility with your specific grass type to ensure effective lawn control without damaging your turf.

Final Verdict

After evaluating these top contenders for effective Creeping Charlie lawn control, my recommendation hinges on your specific needs.

For overall ease of use and broad coverage on a typical suburban lawn, the Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray is an excellent all-rounder that delivers consistent results without much fuss.

If you’re facing exceptionally stubborn, widespread infestations or need rapid results, Gordon’s SpeedZone Lawn Weed Killer is your best bet; its speed and efficacy in cooler temperatures are truly impressive.

However, for precision spot treatment or smaller areas where Creeping Charlie pops up, the Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Use with Comfort Wand is the undisputed champion for convenience and accuracy.

Ultimately, by understanding your lawn and the extent of your Creeping Charlie problem, you can confidently choose the right product to reclaim your beautiful green space.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What is Creeping Charlie and why is it so hard to kill?
Creeping Charlie (also known as Ground Ivy) is a tenacious, low-growing perennial weed with scallop-edged leaves and small purple flowers. It’s difficult to eradicate because it spreads aggressively both by seeds and by rooting stems (stolons) that creep along the ground, making it very resilient and able to quickly re-establish itself.

Q2: When is the best time to apply Creeping Charlie weed killers for effective lawn control?
The most effective times to apply weed killers for Creeping Charlie are in the fall (late September to November) and early spring (April to May). These are periods when the plant is actively growing and transporting nutrients to its roots, meaning it will absorb the herbicide more effectively, ensuring it gets killed down to the root.

Q3: Can these weed killers harm my lawn grasses?
Most of the recommended products are formulated to be “lawn-safe” when used as directed. They are designed to target broadleaf weeds like Creeping Charlie while leaving common lawn grasses unharmed. However, it’s crucial to read the product label carefully to ensure compatibility with your specific grass type (e.g., cool-season vs. warm-season grasses) and to follow all application instructions precisely.

Q4: How long does it take to see results after applying a Creeping Charlie weed killer?
The time to see results varies by product. Some fast-acting weed killers, like Gordon’s SpeedZone, can show visible results in just hours. Others might take a few days to a week for the weeds to start wilting and dying. Complete eradication, especially for tough weeds like Creeping Charlie, may require more time and possibly a second application as per the product’s instructions.

Q5: Do I need to reapply Creeping Charlie weed killers?
For severe or persistent Creeping Charlie infestations, a single application might not be enough for complete effective lawn control. Many products recommend a second application after a specific waiting period (e.g., 2-4 weeks) if weeds are still present. Regular monitoring and spot treatments in subsequent seasons can help prevent recurrence.

Q6: Are there any organic or natural methods for Creeping Charlie control?
While this article focuses on chemical weed killers, some homeowners explore organic methods. These include manual removal (digging it out, ensuring all roots and stolons are removed), smothering with heavy mulch or cardboard, or applying horticultural vinegar (acetic acid). However, organic methods often require more persistent effort and may be less effective on widespread, established Creeping Charlie.

Q7: What is the difference between “ready-to-use” and “concentrate” weed killers?
Ready-to-use products come pre-mixed and are applied directly from the container, often with a trigger sprayer or battery-powered wand. They are convenient for spot treatments. Concentrates require mixing with water in a separate sprayer according to specific dilution ratios. They are generally more cost-effective for larger areas but require more preparation. Both types can offer effective Creeping Charlie weed control depending on your needs.