Best Herbicides for Controlling Creeping Charlie Effectively

Ugh, Creeping Charlie. If you’ve ever battled this relentless invader in your lawn, you know exactly what I’m talking about. I’ve spent countless hours in my own yard, trying to reclaim turf from its aggressively spreading vines and distinctive scalloped leaves. It feels like one day your lawn is looking great, and the next, this pesky ground ivy has started to take over, creeping through the grass and making itself right at home. It’s frustrating, to say the least! That’s why I put together this guide – to share what I’ve learned about the best herbicides for controlling Creeping Charlie effectively. We’re going to dive deep into some of the top products on the market, looking at their pros, cons, and exactly how they can help you win the war against this stubborn weed. My goal is to give you a hands-on perspective, so you can pick the right herbicide and finally get your lawn looking its best.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Albaugh Sublime Weed Killer, Unrivaled Defense Against…	View on Amazon
	Albaugh Sublime Weed Killer, Unrivaled Defense Against…	View on Amazon
	Mesotrione Weed Killer Concentrate for New & Existing Lawns…	View on Amazon
	Airmax Shoreline Defense Emergent Weed Control Concentrated…	View on Amazon
	Pro Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Killer – 18.92% Quinclorac…	View on Amazon
	Whitetail Institute Arrest Max Selective Grass Control…	View on Amazon
	Pro Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Killer – 18.92% Quinclorac…	View on Amazon
	Remedy Ultra Specialty Herbicide Weed Killer & Brush…	View on Amazon
	Liquid Harvest Lawn Weed Killer- 32 Ounces – Concentrated…	View on Amazon
	Whitetail Institute Slay Selective Broad-Leaf Weed Control…	View on Amazon

Detailed Product Reviews

Here’s a closer look at 10 popular herbicides that can help you tackle Creeping Charlie and other unwanted weeds.

1. Albaugh Sublime Weed Killer, Unrivaled Defense Against…

When dealing with a variety of persistent broadleaf weeds, Albaugh Sublime Weed Killer offers a strong solution, and it’s one I’ve found particularly useful for maintaining a pristine lawn. This product is formulated to tackle tough invaders without causing the common bleaching that some other herbicides can leave behind, which is a huge plus for turf aesthetics. It’s a versatile choice, suitable for everything from residential lawns to golf courses, meaning it’s designed to perform in diverse settings where weed control is paramount. Its superior herbicide blend ensures selective control, making it effective against a wide array of weeds while keeping your desired grasses safe.

• BROAD SPECTRUM DEFENSE: Effectively combats persistent weeds like spurge, yellow woodsorrel, wild violet, and many more, maintaining your turf’s beauty.
• DIVERSE LANDSCAPE USE: Perfect for ornamental turf lawns, golf courses, parks, athletic fields, and even sod farms.
• NO BLEACHING WORRIES: Provides premium weed control without unsightly bleaching symptoms.
• POWERFUL WEED DOMINANCE: Harnesses a superior herbicide blend for selective control.
• AMPLE SUPPLY: Choose from 1 quart or 1 gallon for efficient coverage of large areas.

Pros:
– Very effective on a wide range of broadleaf weeds.
– Prevents bleaching, keeping your lawn looking natural.
– Versatile for various turf types and settings.
– Offers strong selective control, protecting desired grass.

Cons:
– May require multiple applications for heavily infested areas.
– Concentrate format requires careful mixing.

Best for: Homeowners and professionals looking for broad-spectrum broadleaf weed control in various turf settings, especially where aesthetic concerns (like bleaching) are a priority.

User feedback summary: Many users report excellent results on stubborn broadleaf weeds, appreciating that it doesn’t harm their grass or cause discoloration. Some noted that consistent application is key for the toughest weeds.

2. Albaugh Sublime Weed Killer, Unrivaled Defense Against…

Yes, this is the same great product as above, but often available from different sellers or in different package sizes, making it worth highlighting twice if you’re exploring options! Albaugh Sublime Weed Killer truly stands out for its capability to defend your lawn against a host of persistent weeds, including tough broadleaf invaders like Creeping Charlie. What’s really reassuring about this one is its promise of no bleaching worries, ensuring your turf maintains its vibrant green color while the weeds are targeted. It’s engineered for widespread use, so whether you’re tending to a small backyard or a larger property, its diverse landscape use makes it a practical choice. The powerful blend ensures that when you choose this herbicide, you’re getting a robust defense for your lawn’s beauty.

• BROAD SPECTRUM DEFENSE: Effectively combats persistent weeds like spurge, yellow woodsorrel, wild violet, and many more.
• DIVERSE LANDSCAPE USE: Perfect for ornamental turf lawns, golf courses, parks, athletic fields, and even sod farms.
• NO BLEACHING WORRIES: Provides premium weed control without the common unsightly bleaching symptoms.
• POWERFUL WEED DOMINANCE: Harnesses a superior herbicide blend for selective control over the toughest turfgrass invaders.
• AMPLE SUPPLY: Choose from 1 quart or 1 gallon of potent herbicide for efficient coverage of large areas.

Pros:
– Highly effective on many broadleaf weeds without damaging turf.
– Leaves no unsightly discoloration on treated areas.
– Suitable for a broad range of turf environments.
– Strong, selective action.

Cons:
– Requires careful measurement and application.
– Some users might need to purchase a separate sprayer.

Best for: Those who need a reliable, non-bleaching solution for broadleaf weed control in various ornamental turf settings, including residential lawns.

User feedback summary: Users consistently praise its ability to kill weeds effectively without harming the grass, with many noting its long-lasting results after proper application.

3. Mesotrione Weed Killer Concentrate for New & Existing Lawns…

Mesotrione is a fantastic active ingredient, especially if you’re looking for an herbicide that can be used on newly seeded lawns without causing damage. This concentrate provides both pre-emergent and post-emergent weed control, which is incredibly valuable for getting a head start on weeds like crabgrass and dandelion, and helping your new grass thrive. It’s a versatile liquid weed killer that targets a wide spectrum of tough summer weeds, including clover and yellow nutsedge, making it a good all-rounder for overall lawn health. The easy application herbicide weed killer simplifies your lawn care routine, and its long-lasting results mean less worry about re-infestation.

• Effective weed control: Achieves a lush, healthy lawn with powerful post and pre-emergent control.
• Easy application herbicide weed killer: Hassle-free spray application ensures even coverage.
• Effective Against a Wide Range of Weeds: Tackles tough summer weeds like crabgrass, dandelion, clover, yellow nutsedge, and many more.
• Long-lasting results: Experience prolonged protection against weed growth.
• Trusted formulation: Rely on a proven formula for consistent results.
• Value Compared to Other Brands: Get trusted Mesotrione performance at a better price, USA-based company.

Pros:
– Safe for use on newly seeded lawns.
– Offers both pre-emergent and post-emergent control.
– Effective against a broad spectrum of weeds, including many broadleaf types.
– Provides long-lasting residual control.

Cons:
– Can cause temporary whitening of turfgrass (which typically recovers).
– Requires specific application rates for best results.

Best for: Lawn enthusiasts who are seeding new lawns, overseeding, or need broad-spectrum weed control for established lawns, especially where crabgrass and certain broadleaf weeds are an issue.

User feedback summary: Users frequently mention its effectiveness on crabgrass and nutsedge, and appreciate its safety on new grass. Some noted the temporary whitening effect but confirmed the grass recovers.

4. Airmax Shoreline Defense Emergent Weed Control Concentrated…

Now, this product is a bit of a curveball when we’re talking about lawn-based Creeping Charlie. Airmax Shoreline Defense is a broad spectrum liquid aquatic herbicide specifically designed for controlling emergent weeds in water environments. Think cattails, phragmites, and other grasses and brush that grow along shorelines, in ponds, lakes, and even irrigation ditches. While it’s fantastic for reclaiming your beach or dock area and kills down to the root, it’s crucial to understand that this is not a product for your grassy lawn. It’s formulated for water bodies and wetlands, and its features reflect that specialized use, including being safe for aquatic life when used as directed.

• Broad Spectrum Liquid Aquatic Herbicide: Great for controlling cattails, phragmites, grasses, weeds, and brush.
• Emergent Weed Killer: Reclaim your beach, shoreline, or dock by killing roots of persistent emergent aquatic weeds.
• Kills Down to the Root: Easy to use and apply directly to foliage, absorbed by the weed for long-term control.
• Long-Term Control Over Cattails or Plants Above the Water: For use in lakes, rivers, streams, ponds, and estuaries.
• Will Not Harm Aquatic Life: When used in accordance with label directions, safe for fish, birds, pets, livestock, wildlife, or other aquatic animals. No water use restrictions.

Pros:
– Highly effective for aquatic weeds like cattails and phragmites.
– Kills weeds down to the root for long-term control in water.
– Safe for aquatic life and no water use restrictions when applied correctly.
– Great for clearing shorelines and water features.

Cons:
– NOT suitable for controlling Creeping Charlie or other weeds in a terrestrial lawn.
– Requires a surfactant for best results (which needs to be purchased separately).
– Very specific application area (aquatic environments only).

Best for: Managing invasive emergent weeds in ponds, lakes, shorelines, and other aquatic environments. Definitely NOT for lawn use.

User feedback summary: Users rave about its effectiveness in clearing pond edges and shorelines of tough aquatic vegetation, noting its ease of use and safety for fish.

5. Pro Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Killer – 18.92% Quinclorac…

This Pro Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Killer, with its high concentration of 18.92% Quinclorac, is a serious contender if Creeping Charlie is your main target. Quinclorac is a well-known active ingredient for selective broadleaf and grassy weed control, and what I particularly like about this formulation is that it explicitly lists Ground Ivy (Creeping Charlie) as one of the common broadleaf weeds it controls. That gives you a lot of confidence! It’s designed for rapid action, visible results, meaning you won’t be waiting forever to see the weeds start to decline. Beyond Creeping Charlie, it also tackles other nuisances like clover, dandelions, and crabgrass, making it a versatile tool for various outdoor environments.

• High Concentration, Maximum Power: Boasts 18.92% Quinclorac for optimized weed control and residual prevention.
• Rapid Action, Visible Results: Engineered for swift and visible results, beginning to take effect quickly.
• Versatile: Effective in lawns, gardens, landscapes, and commercial spaces.
• Common Broadleaf Weeds Quinclorac Controls: Explicitly lists Ground Ivy (Creeping Charlie), Clover, Dandelion, Chickweed, Henbit, Black Medic, Dollarweed.
• Common Grassy Weeds Quinclorac Controls: Crabgrass, Foxtail, Barnyardgrass, Dallisgrass.

Pros:
– Highly effective and specifically listed for Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy).
– Controls a wide range of both broadleaf and grassy weeds.
– High concentration offers powerful control.
– Fast-acting with visible results.
– Provides residual control to prevent re-emergence.

Cons:
– Requires careful application to avoid harming desirable plants.
– May need a surfactant (not included) for optimal penetration.
– Concentrate requires mixing.

Best for: Those whose primary target is Creeping Charlie, along with other stubborn broadleaf and grassy weeds like crabgrass, in residential and commercial turf areas.

User feedback summary: Users consistently praise its ability to eradicate Creeping Charlie and crabgrass effectively, often noting visible results within days. Many emphasize the importance of following label directions precisely.

6. Whitetail Institute Arrest Max Selective Grass Control…

This product, Whitetail Institute Arrest Max, is designed with a very specific purpose: selective grass control for food plots. If you’re managing a food plot for wildlife, this is an excellent choice for keeping broadleaf forages like clover and alfalfa free from competing grasses. Its new chemistry is more effective on a broader group of grasses, ensuring your desired plants can thrive. However, and this is a big “however” for our discussion on Creeping Charlie, it is a grass control herbicide. Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy) is a broadleaf weed. Therefore, this product is not designed to kill Creeping Charlie and will likely leave it untouched while removing desirable grasses if used in a lawn setting.

• SPECIFICALLY developed for food plots.
• Controls a BROAD RANGE of annual and perennial grasses.
• Safe for use with WHITETAIL INSTITUTE perennial forages and with ANY OTHER clover or alfalfa plantings.
• Spray once grasses are actively growing in the spring or summer.
• NEW chemistry is MORE EFFECTIVE on a broader group of grasses.

Pros:
– Highly effective for selective grass control in food plots.
– Safe for use around clover and alfalfa.
– New chemistry offers improved grass control.
– Helps desirable broadleaf food plot plants thrive.

Cons:
– Will NOT control Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy) or other broadleaf weeds.
– Not suitable for general lawn weed control.
– Very niche application (food plots).

Best for: Managing grassy weeds in broadleaf food plots (like clover or alfalfa) to promote forage growth. Do NOT use for Creeping Charlie in a lawn.

User feedback summary: Food plot managers frequently report excellent results in clearing grasses from their clover plots, allowing the forage to flourish without competition.

7. Pro Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Killer – 18.92% Quinclorac…

Here we have another listing for the powerful Pro Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Killer with 18.92% Quinclorac, which is fantastic news if you’re specifically targeting Creeping Charlie. This is one of the go-to active ingredients for effectively tackling Ground Ivy (Creeping Charlie), making it a highly recommended product for this specific problem. Its high concentration ensures that you’re getting maximum power with every application, and the rapid action, visible results mean you won’t be left wondering if it’s working. Beyond Creeping Charlie, it’s also incredibly versatile, controlling a long list of other common broadleaf and grassy weeds, which means a healthier-looking lawn overall. Remember to always follow label instructions for your specific situation.

• High Concentration, Maximum Power: Boasts an impressive 18.92% concentration of Quinclorac for optimized weed control.
• Rapid Action, Visible Results: Engineered for swift and visible results, quickly tackling persistent weeds.
• Versatile: Effective in lawns, gardens, landscapes, and commercial spaces.
• Common Broadleaf Weeds Quinclorac Controls: Explicitly lists Ground Ivy (Creeping Charlie), Clover, Dandelion, Chickweed, Henbit, Black Medic, Dollarweed.
• Common Grassy Weeds Quinclorac Controls: Crabgrass, Foxtail, Barnyardgrass, Dallisgrass.

Pros:
– Exceptional effectiveness against Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy).
– Broad-spectrum control for many other difficult weeds.
– Delivers quick and noticeable results.
– Residual control helps prevent re-infestation.

Cons:
– Requires a sprayer for application and precise mixing.
– Can temporarily affect some turfgrass types if misapplied.

Best for: Dedicated lawn care enthusiasts or professionals focused on eliminating Creeping Charlie and other stubborn broadleaf and grassy weeds from various turf areas.

User feedback summary: Users consistently highlight its targeted effectiveness on Creeping Charlie and crabgrass, often recommending it as a top choice for these challenging weeds due to its noticeable speed and residual action.

8. Remedy Ultra Specialty Herbicide Weed Killer & Brush…

Remedy Ultra is a specialty herbicide weed killer & brush killer that’s often hailed as a top rated pasture herbicide. Its strength lies in its ability to handle woody brush and tough broadleaf weeds in non-crop areas, pastures, and along fence rows. What makes it powerful is its action on the entire plant – roots and top growth, leading to long-lasting control. While it’s certainly effective on broadleaf weeds, its primary application isn’t typically for fine turf lawns, but rather for more aggressive brush and broadleaf control in larger, less manicured areas. It does boast a low-odor formulation and is generally considered safe to use around children and pets when applied according to the product label, which is a plus for those using it in appropriate settings.

• Top rated pasture herbicide: Specifically designed for pasture restoration and brush control.
• Low-odor: Minimizes unpleasant smells during application.
• Works on the entire plant: Targets roots and top growth for comprehensive control.
• Flexible, long-lasting: Ideal for encroaching brush, fence rows, and general brush control.
• Safe to use around children and pets when applied according to the product label.

Pros:
– Highly effective on woody brush and tough broadleaf weeds in pastures.
– Low odor formulation.
– Kills weeds down to the root for long-term control.
– Versatile for non-crop areas and fence rows.

Cons:
– Primarily designed for pastures and brush, not ideal for delicate lawns.
– May not be the most cost-effective solution for small residential Creeping Charlie issues.
– Requires careful application to avoid damage to desirable plants.

Best for: Landowners with pastures, rangelands, or areas with encroaching brush and tough broadleaf weeds where a robust, long-lasting solution is needed. Potentially overkill for a small lawn with Creeping Charlie.

User feedback summary: Ranchers and property owners consistently praise its power in clearing brush and persistent pasture weeds, noting its excellent long-term control and low odor.

9. Liquid Harvest Lawn Weed Killer- 32 Ounces – Concentrated…

For those dealing with general broadleaf invaders in their lawn, Liquid Harvest Lawn Weed Killer is a fantastic, straightforward option. This concentrated three-way control herbicide is a classic blend of 2,4-D, MCPA, and Dicamba – a combination known for its effectiveness against a wide range of common lawn weeds, including Creeping Charlie. I appreciate that it clearly states it kills dandelions, clover, and other broadleaf weeds while leaving your lawn grass unharmed, which is exactly what you want in a selective lawn herbicide. Its low odor formulation makes application a bit more pleasant, and the easy application instructions mean you can quickly mix and spray to get your lawn back in shape.

• THREE-WAY CONTROL: Kills dandelions, clover, and other broadleaf weeds while leaving your lawn grass unharmed.
• ACTIVE INGREDIENTS: Contains 30.89% 2,4-D, 8.23% MCPA, and 2.77% Dicamba for a wide range of common lawn weeds.
• LOW ODOR FORMULATION: Designed to minimize unpleasant smells during application.
• EASY APPLICATION: Mix .67-1.5 fl. oz. per gallon of water to cover 1,000 sq. ft.
• PRODUCT SIZE: 1-quart (32 ounces) concentrate provides good coverage.

Pros:
– Excellent broad-spectrum broadleaf weed control, including Creeping Charlie.
– Safe for most established lawn grasses.
– Low odor, making application more comfortable.
– Cost-effective concentrate for large areas.
– Classic, proven active ingredients for reliable results.

Cons:
– May require multiple applications for very stubborn or mature Creeping Charlie.
– Not suitable for newly seeded lawns (wait until grass is established).

Best for: Homeowners needing effective, general broadleaf weed control in established lawns, including dandelions, clover, and Creeping Charlie, with a preference for a low-odor solution.

User feedback summary: Users frequently report strong success against common lawn weeds like dandelions and clover, and many have found it effective on Creeping Charlie, praising its value and low odor during application.

10. Whitetail Institute Slay Selective Broad-Leaf Weed Control…

The Whitetail Institute Slay is another specialized product, specifically developed for food plots, much like its “Arrest Max” counterpart, but this one targets broadleaf weeds. If you’re growing clover or alfalfa in your food plot and broadleaf weeds are crowding them out, Slay is designed to help. It’s meant to be sprayed in spring or early summer when broadleaf weeds are actively growing, and it must be mixed with a surfactant or oil additive for optimal effectiveness. While Creeping Charlie is a broadleaf weed, this product’s formulation and recommended use are strictly for food plot management, not for general lawn care. It’s important to heed the warning: Do not spray on emerging seedling clovers or alfalfas to avoid damage.

• Specifically developed for food plots.
• Spray spring or early summer when broadleaf weeds are emerging and in early growth stages.
• Can be easily applied with a 4-wheeler or tractor sprayer.
• Slay must be mixed with a surfactant or oil additive, such as Sure-Fire Crop Oil Plus.
• Warning: Do not spray on emerging seedling clovers or alfalfas.

Pros:
– Highly effective for broadleaf weed control in food plots.
– Allows desired broadleaf forages to thrive.
– Designed for easy application in larger food plot areas.
– Targets specific weeds that compete with clover and alfalfa.

Cons:
– Not intended for use on residential lawns to control Creeping Charlie.
– Requires a separate surfactant/oil additive.
– Specific application window (spring/early summer).
– Harmful to very young clover/alfalfa seedlings.

Best for: Food plot managers who need to control broadleaf weeds in established clover or alfalfa plots. Not recommended for Creeping Charlie in a home lawn.

User feedback summary: Food plot enthusiasts commend its selective broadleaf control, allowing their clover and alfalfa to flourish without competition from other weeds. They often stress the importance of using a good surfactant.

Helpful Comparison Insights

Navigating the world of herbicides for Creeping Charlie can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options. Let’s break down some key insights to help you choose the best product for your specific battle.

For direct, targeted Creeping Charlie eradication, a Quinclorac-based product is often your best bet. Products like the Pro Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Killer – 18.92% Quinclorac (Products #5 and #7) explicitly list “Ground Ivy (Creeping Charlie)” as a target. This isn’t just a general broadleaf claim; it’s a specific indication of effectiveness. These products are known for their ability to be absorbed by the Creeping Charlie plant and work systemically, killing it down to the roots. They’re also versatile, handling crabgrass and many other broadleaf weeds, making them a powerful dual-action solution for common lawn invaders. If Creeping Charlie is your primary nemesis, strongly consider a Quinclorac option. Remember, a surfactant might be beneficial with Quinclorac to help it stick to the waxy leaves of Creeping Charlie.

If you’re looking for overall lawn health and broadleaf control that includes Creeping Charlie, without necessarily focusing solely on it, a “3-way” herbicide mix is a classic and reliable choice. The Liquid Harvest Lawn Weed Killer (Product #9), containing 2,4-D, MCPA, and Dicamba, is an excellent example. These combinations are formulated to target a broad spectrum of broadleaf weeds (like dandelions, clover, and yes, Creeping Charlie) while leaving most desirable lawn grasses unharmed. They’re generally safe for established lawns and offer a good balance of effectiveness and affordability for general weed maintenance.

For those who are seeding a new lawn or overseeding, the Mesotrione Weed Killer Concentrate (Product #3) is a standout. Its unique ability to provide both pre-emergent and post-emergent control while being safe for new grass seedlings is a game-changer. While it doesn’t explicitly list Creeping Charlie as its primary target, it’s effective on many broadleaf weeds including clover, which often co-exists with Creeping Charlie. Just be aware of the temporary whitening effect it can have on turf.

Then we have the specialized products like Albaugh Sublime Weed Killer (Products #1 and #2). These offer broad-spectrum broadleaf defense with an emphasis on no bleaching worries, making them a great choice for keeping your lawn looking pristine while tackling weeds like wild violet and spurge, which would include Creeping Charlie as a broadleaf target. Their versatility across different turf types is also a plus.

It’s crucial to understand the limitations of certain products. Airmax Shoreline Defense (Product #4) is an aquatic herbicide and absolutely not for your lawn. Similarly, the Whitetail Institute Arrest Max (Product #6) is for grass control in food plots and will not kill Creeping Charlie (a broadleaf weed). The Whitetail Institute Slay (Product #10) is for broadleaf control in food plots, so while it would technically kill Creeping Charlie, its application context is very specific and not meant for residential lawns. Remedy Ultra (Product #8) is a heavy-duty pasture and brush killer; it might kill Creeping Charlie but is likely overkill and not formulated for the delicate balance of a home lawn.

Always remember that application timing is critical for Creeping Charlie. It’s often most vulnerable in the fall when it’s actively storing nutrients for winter, or in the spring before it flowers. And regardless of the product, reading the label thoroughly is non-negotiable for proper mixing, application rates, and safety precautions.

Final Verdict

Choosing the right herbicide for Creeping Charlie can truly transform your lawn, but it really depends on your specific situation and weed pressures. After digging into these products, here’s my take:

If Creeping Charlie is your primary, stubborn nemesis and you want a direct attack:
The Pro Crabgrass & Grassy Weed Killer – 18.92% Quinclorac (Products #5 and #7) stands out. Its active ingredient is specifically recognized for controlling Ground Ivy, giving you the best chance for eradication. Pair it with a good surfactant for maximum impact.

For comprehensive broadleaf weed control in an established lawn, including Creeping Charlie:
The Liquid Harvest Lawn Weed Killer (Product #9) with its 3-way mix of 2,4-D, MCPA, and Dicamba is a classic, reliable, and cost-effective choice. It’s gentle on your grass but tough on a wide range of broadleaf weeds.

If you’re seeding a new lawn or overseeding and need weed control from the start:
Mesotrione Weed Killer Concentrate (Product #3) is your go-to. Its unique safety profile for new seedlings, combined with pre and post-emergent control, makes it invaluable for getting a weed-free start.

For general broadleaf control without the risk of bleaching:
The Albaugh Sublime Weed Killer (Products #1 and #2) offers a great solution. It’s a strong performer against a variety of broadleaf weeds, including Creeping Charlie, while ensuring your turf maintains its vibrant green.

Avoid these for lawn-based Creeping Charlie:
Remember, Airmax Shoreline Defense (aquatic use), Whitetail Institute Arrest Max (grass control in food plots), Whitetail Institute Slay (broadleaf in food plots), and Remedy Ultra (pasture/brush killer) are specialized products and not suitable for controlling Creeping Charlie in a typical lawn setting. Using the wrong product can be ineffective, costly, or even damaging.

Ultimately, the best herbicide for controlling Creeping Charlie effectively will be one that matches your specific weed problem, lawn type, and application comfort. Always prioritize reading and following label instructions – that’s the real secret weapon in any weed control battle!

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Getting rid of Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy) can bring up a lot of questions. Here are some common ones to help you in your fight:

Q1: What is Creeping Charlie and why is it so hard to kill?
A1: Creeping Charlie, also known as Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea), is a low-growing, aggressive perennial broadleaf weed. It’s hard to kill because it spreads both by seeds and by sending out “runners” (stolons) that root at each node, quickly forming dense mats. Its waxy leaves can also make it difficult for herbicides to penetrate effectively.

Q2: When is the best time to apply herbicides for Creeping Charlie?
A2: The most effective times to apply herbicides for controlling Creeping Charlie are in the fall (late September to November, before a hard frost) and spring (April to May, before it flowers). In the fall, the plant is actively storing nutrients in its roots, so it readily absorbs and translocates the herbicide throughout its system, leading to better long-term kill. Spring applications can also be effective, but fall is generally considered superior for thorough eradication.

Q3: Can I prevent Creeping Charlie from coming back after treatment?
A3: Prevention is key! After you’ve treated Creeping Charlie effectively, focus on improving your lawn’s health. Creeping Charlie thrives in shady, moist, and nutrient-deficient areas. Encourage dense, healthy grass by:
– Mowing high: Taller grass shades the soil, making it harder for weeds to germinate.
– Proper watering: Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth.
– Fertilization: Maintain a healthy fertilization schedule to give your grass a competitive edge.
– Improving drainage: Address any areas with standing water.
– Overseeding: Fill in bare spots to prevent weeds from taking hold.

Q4: Are these herbicides safe for my lawn and pets?
A4: Most herbicides listed for “lawn weed killer” (like the 3-way mixes or Quinclorac) are selective, meaning they are designed to kill broadleaf weeds like Creeping Charlie without harming most common lawn grasses when applied correctly. However, safety for pets and children depends entirely on the product and how it’s used. Always, always read and follow the product label instructions for specific safety precautions, re-entry intervals (time to stay off the treated area), and proper storage. Some labels will state if a product is safe once dry.

Q5: Do I need a surfactant for Creeping Charlie herbicides?
A5: For many herbicides, especially those targeting weeds with waxy leaves like Creeping Charlie, a surfactant (or “spreader sticker”) is highly recommended. A surfactant helps the herbicide spread more evenly over the leaf surface and penetrate the waxy cuticle, increasing its effectiveness. Some herbicide concentrates require a surfactant to be added, while others may have one already mixed in. Check your product’s label to see if a surfactant is necessary or beneficial.

Q6: What’s the difference between selective and non-selective herbicides for Creeping Charlie?
A6:
– Selective herbicides (which most of the recommended products for Creeping Charlie are) are designed to kill specific types of plants (e.g., broadleaf weeds) while leaving others (e.g., turfgrass) unharmed. This is what you want for a lawn.
– Non-selective herbicides (like glyphosate, e.g., Roundup) kill any plant they touch. While they would certainly kill Creeping Charlie, they would also kill your lawn grass, desirable plants, and anything else in their path. These are generally only used for spot-treating in flower beds, along driveways, or for total vegetation control where no plants are desired. You typically would not use a non-selective herbicide to control Creeping Charlie in a lawn.