How to Get Rid of Creeping Charlie Weeds in Lawn

What is Creeping Charlie?

Creeping Charlie (also called Ground Ivy) is one of the most frustrating weeds Canadian homeowners face, particularly in Ontario and other eastern provinces. This persistent weed comes back year after year, spreading rapidly through lawns and crowding out your grass.

How to Identify Creeping Charlie

• Leaves: Small, round, scalloped edges (like coins)
• Stems: Square-shaped (a mint family trait)
• Flowers: Tiny purple-blue blooms in spring
• Growth: Creeps along the ground, rooting at nodes
• Smell: Strong minty odor when crushed

Why is Creeping Charlie So Hard to Kill?

This weed is notoriously difficult to eliminate because:

• It spreads through both seeds and creeping stems (stolons)
• Each node can root and form a new plant
• It thrives in shady, moist areas where grass struggles - common conditions in Ontario lawns
• Its waxy leaves resist many herbicides
• Even small root fragments left behind can regrow

The "Double-Tap" Method: Your Best Strategy

The most effective approach combines two applications of the right herbicide, spaced 2-3 weeks apart. This ensures you kill both the visible plants and any regrowth from the root system.

Step-by-Step Treatment Plan

Step 1: Choose the Right Product

For Canadian lawns, look for herbicides containing:

• Triclopyr - The most effective ingredient against Creeping Charlie
• 2,4-D + Mecoprop + Dicamba - Three-way combinations work well

Recommended products available in Canada 

• Killex Weed Control – Ready to Spray 1L
• Killex Weed Killer Concentrate 1L
• Scotts Weed B Gon MAX
• Wilson Lawn Weed Out Ultra

New to using Killex with a hose-end sprayer? Check out our detailed guide: How to Use Killex with Scotts Dial N Spray in Canada.

Step 2: Timing is Everything

Apply when conditions are optimal:

• Best time: Late spring (May-June) or early fall (September) in Ontario and across Canada
  
• Temperature: Between 15-25°C
• Weather: Calm day with no rain forecast for 24-48 hours
• Lawn condition: Actively growing, not drought-stressed

Step 3: First Application

1. Mow your lawn 2-3 days before treatment (don't mow too short)
2. Ensure the lawn is slightly moist - water lightly if dry
3. Mix herbicide according to label directions
4. Apply evenly to affected areas using a pump sprayer
5. Ensure good coverage on the waxy leaves
6. Don't mow for at least 3-4 days after application

Step 4: Second Application (The "Double-Tap")

1. Wait 2-3 weeks after the first treatment
2. Assess the damage - you should see yellowing and dieback
3. Repeat the application process on any remaining patches
4. This second treatment kills regrowth from the root system

Post-Treatment Care

After eliminating Creeping Charlie, prevent its return:

Immediate Steps (Weeks 1-4)

• Wait 1-2 weeks after final treatment before overseeding bare spots
• Use a quality grass seed blend suited to your conditions
• Keep newly seeded areas moist until grass establishes

Long-Term Prevention

• Improve drainage: Creeping Charlie loves wet, compacted soil
• Increase sunlight: Trim overhanging branches if possible
• Maintain thick grass: A dense lawn crowds out weeds
• Proper mowing: Keep grass at 6-8 cm (2.5-3 inches) high
• Regular fertilization: Feed your lawn 3-4 times per season
• Aerate annually: Reduces compaction and improves grass health

Important Safety Tips

• Always read and follow product label instructions
• Wear protective equipment (gloves, long sleeves, eye protection)
• Keep children and pets off treated areas until dry
• Don't apply near water sources, storm drains, or vegetable gardens
• Check local bylaws - some municipalities restrict pesticide use

When to Call a Professional

Consider hiring a lawn care service if:

• The infestation covers more than 50% of your lawn
• You've tried the double-tap method without success
• You live in an area with pesticide restrictions
• You prefer not to handle herbicides yourself

Final Thoughts

Getting rid of creeping charlie weed requires patience and persistence, but the "Double-Tap" method is your best bet for long-term success. By combining the right product, proper timing, and follow-up care, you can reclaim your lawn from this invasive weed.

Remember: a healthy, thick lawn is your best defense against future invasions. Invest in regular maintenance, and you'll spend less time fighting weeds in the long run.

Shop Our Weed Control Products

Ready to tackle Creeping Charlie? Browse our selection of the best weed control products at Lawn Supply to get started today.