What Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy) looks like
Creeping vine with small, round, scalloped leaves and small purple flowers; spreads via runners that root at nodes.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Not sure if it's Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy)?
Snap a photo — our free AI compares it to creeping charlie (ground ivy) and tells you in seconds. No app needed.
Best approach: Herbicide spray
Digging is rarely effective — every small root fragment left behind regrows. Herbicide (triclopyr) is strongly recommended. In flower beds, carefully hand-pull repeatedly over months or use a targeted triclopyr spot-spray.
Best products for Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy)
Formulated to kill creeping charlie (ground ivy) without wiping out your grass — see the timing and chemistry below.
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Hi-Yield Triclopyr Ester (8 oz)
✓ Kills creeping charlie (ground ivy)Triclopyr is the strongest broadleaf-specific herbicide available to homeowners. When 2,4-D products fail on creeping charlie or wild violet, triclopyr gets the job done.
BioAdvanced All-In-One Weed & Feed (22-0-4)
✓ Kills creeping charlie (ground ivy)Beginner friendly
Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action1
✓ Kills creeping charlie (ground ivy)Beginner friendlyPrevents crabgrass for up to 4 months, kills dandelion, clover and other listed broadleaf weeds, and feeds. Apply to wet grass, no more than twice a year. Not for St. Augustine. Its label allows centipede, but centipede does better with a stand-alone weed killer and a lighter feeding.
How much do you need?
Herbicide is dosed by lawn size. Pick your yard size for a quick estimate:
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When to treat Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy)
Spray in spring or fall when temperatures are 60–80°F and the weed is actively growing. Avoid summer heat — stressed grass takes collateral damage.
Chemical treatment
Use a broadleaf herbicide containing triclopyr or a strong 2,4-D + dicamba mix in spring or fall. Multiple applications may be needed due to its creeping habit.
Non-chemical management
Maintain turf density and reduce shade and moisture—creeping Charlie thrives in damp, shaded areas.
How to stop Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy) coming back
Maintain turf density and reduce shade and moisture—creeping Charlie thrives in damp, shaded areas.
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Measure my lawn — it's free →FAQ
What does Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy) look like?
Creeping vine with small, round, scalloped leaves and small purple flowers; spreads via runners that root at nodes.
What's the best way to kill Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy)?
Herbicide spray. Digging is rarely effective — every small root fragment left behind regrows. Herbicide (triclopyr) is strongly recommended. In flower beds, carefully hand-pull repeatedly over months or use a targeted triclopyr spot-spray.
Is Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy) hard to get rid of?
Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy) is rated hard to control. It usually requires multiple applications and a consistent plan.
How do I stop Creeping Charlie (Ground Ivy) coming back?
Maintain turf density and reduce shade and moisture—creeping Charlie thrives in damp, shaded areas.
Other broadleaf weeds
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