Creeping Charlie, or Glechoma hederacea, is an aggressive perennial weed that quickly takes over lawns, creating thick mats of foliage. Its rapid spread and persistence crowd out desirable turfgrass. Eliminating this plant is difficult because its unique biology and growth structure make it resistant to many common weed control efforts. This article will explore the specific herbicides and application methods necessary to control this tenacious plant.
Why Creeping Charlie is Difficult to Eradicate
Creeping Charlie resists standard broadleaf herbicides due to its physical characteristics and growth habit. The leaves are protected by a thick, waxy cuticle layer. This layer causes liquid herbicides to bead up and roll off, preventing absorption into the plant’s vascular system.
The weed is a prolific spreader, propagating through horizontal stems called stolons that creep along the soil surface. These stolons root at the nodes, rapidly establishing new, independent colonies. If even a small segment of the stem or root is left behind during manual removal, the plant easily regenerates. Complete eradication requires destroying the entire root system.
Chemical Solutions: Active Ingredients That Kill Creeping Charlie
Effective control requires postemergence broadleaf herbicides containing specific active ingredients formulated to overcome the plant’s defenses. Standard three-way herbicides, while effective on many other weeds, often lack the necessary components to eliminate Creeping Charlie. Successful chemical control relies on systemic herbicides that are translocated throughout the plant, reaching the roots and stolons.
The most effective chemical component is triclopyr, an ingredient highly potent against tough broadleaf weeds like ground ivy. Triclopyr works by disrupting the plant’s growth processes, leading to the plant’s death. Products containing triclopyr are recommended due to its high efficacy as a standalone ingredient or in combination with others.
Effective herbicides are typically sold as three- or four-way mixtures designed for broadleaf weeds. Look for products that combine triclopyr with other growth-regulating herbicides like 2,4-D, dicamba, and MCPP (mecoprop). Dicamba mimics natural plant hormones, causing uncontrolled growth that contributes to the weed’s demise. Using a combination of these ingredients ensures multiple modes of action against the tough foliage and lessens the chance of the plant developing resistance.
Mastering Herbicide Application
Successful chemical treatment depends on precise timing and application technique to ensure systemic herbicides reach the root structure. The most effective time to apply herbicides is in the fall, generally from mid-September through October. During this period, perennial plants like Creeping Charlie draw nutrients and energy down from the leaves into their roots for storage.
Applying the herbicide at this time allows the systemic chemical to be pulled deep into the root system along with the stored food reserves, maximizing effectiveness. A secondary, less effective application window exists in the spring when the plant is actively growing. However, the fall timing is superior for complete eradication. Repeat applications, often two weeks apart, are necessary for heavy infestations to achieve complete control.
To combat the waxy cuticle, many professional-grade herbicides contain a surfactant that helps the chemical stick to and penetrate the leaf surface. Homeowners may need to add a non-ionic surfactant to a liquid herbicide mixture to ensure better leaf coverage and absorption. Always follow the product label instructions regarding mixing ratios, safety gear, and environmental conditions before application.
Integrated Control and Prevention
Chemical treatments are most effective when supported by changes to the lawn’s environment that discourage the weed’s return. Creeping Charlie naturally thrives in shady areas with moist, poorly drained soil. Modifying these conditions is a long-term strategy for prevention.
Improving soil drainage and pruning tree canopies to allow more sunlight to reach the turfgrass creates a less favorable habitat for the weed. Maintaining a thick, dense turfgrass stand is the most effective preventative measure, as a healthy lawn crowds out weeds. This is achieved through proper fertilization, regular mowing at a higher height (2 to 3.5 inches), and overseeding thin areas.
For small, isolated patches, manual removal remains an option. However, the entire plant, including all stolons and root fragments, must be removed to prevent regrowth. Combining these cultural practices with properly timed herbicide treatments provides the most comprehensive and lasting solution to control Creeping Charlie.