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Crabgrass and Creeping Charlie #880413

Asked August 06, 2024, 2:26 PM EDT

We have large areas of crabgrass in our lawn. I am wondering how and when I should try to kill the crabgrass. We also have quite a bit of Creeping Charlie in our lawn, We have removed quite a bit by pulling it out with a rake, but I expect it to return. How and when should I attempt to get rid of these weeds and maintain our yard after my attempt to get rid of these weeds? Thanks, Carl

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hi Carl,

It will be very difficult to kill crabgrass now. When the plants are full grown they're resistant to herbicides, and using something like glyphosate (commonly sold as Roundup) will kill other desirable plants around the crabgrass. If you choose to try this read the label and apply it very carefully.

At this time of summer the best thing to do is to dig the plants out. Next year, use a pre-emergent in May that will prevent crabgrass seeds from germinating. The plant is an annual so what you see now won't come back, but will spread many seeds this summer.

See this page:

https://extension.umn.edu/weeds/crabgrass

Creeping charlie is another very tough weed. Fall is a good time to kill it. This page has information:

https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/controlling-creeping-charlie/

Good luck.

MJ Replied August 07, 2024, 9:12 PM EDT

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