Is Creeping Charlie bad? And if so, how can we get rid of it? - Ask Extension
Dear Master Gardener,
We are new homeowners and our beautiful inherited garden has a substantive amount of Creeping Charlie mixed in with the clov...
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Is Creeping Charlie bad? And if so, how can we get rid of it? #876743
Asked July 10, 2024, 7:18 PM EDT
Dear Master Gardener,
We are new homeowners and our beautiful inherited garden has a substantive amount of Creeping Charlie mixed in with the clover and grass. The Creeping Charlie seems to be spreading rapidly, and we aren't sure what to do. We've gotten contradictory information about whether to leave it or rip it out because it is invasive. Our goal is to transition our garden into a (mostly) native garden, but we aren't sure we'll be able to if the Creeping Charlie takes over. Thank you for your help!
Best,
Micki
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
Although creeping charlie is the bane of those who want a traditional blue-ribbon lawn, others tolerate or even encourage it.
However, how creeping charlie might perform or be perceived in a "mostly native garden" is an open question. In non-turf settings it could serve as an inconspicuous and pollinator friendly ground cover.
The following publication discusses the potential merits and demerits of creeping charlie:
https://turf.umn.edu/news/creeping-charlie-management-and-value-pollinators
However, how creeping charlie might perform or be perceived in a "mostly native garden" is an open question. In non-turf settings it could serve as an inconspicuous and pollinator friendly ground cover.
The following publication discusses the potential merits and demerits of creeping charlie:
https://turf.umn.edu/news/creeping-charlie-management-and-value-pollinators
