Knowledgebase
Creepy Charlie #913857
Asked August 13, 2025, 10:43 AM EDT
Genesee County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello Earl,
Creeping Charlie or ground ivy, is very persistent and requires multiple herbicide applications in order to be eradicated.
Please see this article from the University of Illinois: https://extension.illinois.edu/lawns/managing-creeping-charlie-lawns
The most effective herbicide for ground ivy contains a mixture of three herbicides: 2,4-D, MCPP and dicamba. There is also research that fluroxypyr and triclopyr work well as stand alone applications or in mixtures. Applications of herbicides are best made in the early spring and late fall, but always when the weed is actively growing. Late fall applications are especially effective because the plants are storing sugars in roots to survive winter, and will carry the systemic herbicide to the roots as well. It will require multiple applications to completely eradicate the Creeping Charlie. Always read and follow all herbicide label instructions.
Hope this helps.