The top Creeping Charlie (ground ivy) killers for lawns are chosen for their ability to attack broadleaf weeds at the roots while protecting common turfgrasses. This guide highlights five options that are commonly used by homeowners and lawn professionals. Each product is evaluated for who it’s best for, how it works, and practical limitations. Use the buying guide to compare ingredients, application methods, and suitability for your lawn type before deciding.
| Product | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer for Lawns Concentrate | Residential lawns with mixed weed issues | Liquid concentrate | Buffalograss, Fescues, Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, Zoysiagrass |
| Hi-Yield Triclopyr Ester (8oz) | Active, growing broadleaf weeds including Oxalis and Wild Violet | Liquid concentrate | Perennial bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue ornamental turf |
| Albaugh Sublime Weed Killer (1 Quart) | Wide weed spectrum for lawns, golf courses, parks | Liquid concentrate | Ornamental turf and larger landscapes |
| Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray | Simple hose-end application for quick results | Ready-to-spray | Common residential lawns |
| Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed3 | Weed control plus lawn fertilizer for established lawns | Granular weed killer + fertilizer | Grows thick turf to crowd out future weeds |
Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer for Lawns Concentrate
This concentrate targets listed weeds including creeping Charlie, chickweed, clover, and oxalis while claiming to spare most common lawn grasses when used as directed. Best for homeowners with mixed weed pressure in cool-season and warm-season lawns. Choose this if you want a broad-spectrum spray that works at the root level without immediate turf damage. A potential limitation is the need for proper dilution and uniform coverage to ensure effectiveness.
Hi-Yield (35261) Triclopyr Ester (8oz)
Designed for actively growing broadleaf weeds such as Oxalis and Wild Violet, this ester formulation is often favored for lawns with perimeter or ornamental turf where broadleaf control is needed. It is best for users who need targeted control of persistent broadleaf weeds in established turf. Use caution on cool-season grasses that may be sensitive to certain auxin-type herbicides, and follow label directions closely to avoid lawn stress.
Albaugh Sublime Weed Killer (1 Quart)
This product markets itself as a broad-spectrum weed killer with a strong defense against creeping Charlie, dandelions, and other common lawn weeds. It is positioned for both residential and commercial applications, including golf courses and sod farms. Best for lawn managers seeking a versatile product that can handle diverse weed pressures. A potential limitation is the need for careful handling and correct mixing according to label instructions to avoid turf stress.
Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray
This hose-end spray provides quick, convenient weed control for lawns, targeting creeping Charlie, clover, dandelion, crabgrass, and more. Best for homeowners who want a fast results approach with minimal setup. The main caution is to ensure even spray coverage and avoid spraying during high heat or drought conditions to prevent lawn stress or uneven kill rates.
Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed3
This product combines weed control with lawn fertilizer to help thickening the turf while reducing future weed pressure. Best for established lawns needing an all-in-one approach and for those who want visible lawn improvement alongside weed reduction. A limitation is the requirement to follow application windows and avoid over-fertilization, which can stress the lawn during heat or drought.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Weed spectrum: Check which weeds are listed on the label (creeping Charlie, dandelion, clover, oxalis, etc.). If creeping Charlie is your primary target, prioritize products explicitly listing it.
- Turf compatibility: Confirm your grass type (fescue, bluegrass, bermudagrass, zoysiagrass) and ensure the product is labeled for use on that turf.
- Application method: Choose between concentrates (need mixing and spraying) and ready-to-spray options for convenience. Hose-end sprays offer quick results but require even coverage.
- Environmental safety: Review re-entry intervals and weather restrictions. Avoid application during extreme heat or upcoming frost.
- Impact on lawn health: Some formulations may cause temporary chlorosis or leaf burn if misapplied. Follow label directions for dilution and rate.
- Weed lifecycle: Some products target actively growing weeds; timing can influence effectiveness. Early-season applications can prevent seed production.
FAQ
- What is Creeping Charlie and why is it hard to remove? It’s a persistent broadleaf weed with deep roots that can spread through creeping stolons, making it challenging to eradicate without targeted herbicides.
- Can I use these products on my Kentucky bluegrass lawn? Yes, many listed products are labeled for use on common cool-season turfs like Kentucky bluegrass when applied according to the label.
- Should I mow before applying weed killers? For most products, mowing 24–48 hours before application helps with weed exposure, but always follow the specific label instructions.
- Can I combine weed killer with fertilizer? Some products combine weed control with fertilizer, like Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed3, but mixing separate products is not advised unless explicitly permitted by the labels.
- How long does it take to see results? Many products show visible results within 7–14 days, though complete weed kill may take longer depending on weed size, weather, and turf health.
- Is there a risk to nearby ornamentals or desirable plants? Most lawn-focused products are designed to minimize impact on non-target plants when used as directed. Store and apply away from garden beds.