Answering the common question of how to control creeping Charlie, these products target broadleaf weeds in lawns without harming most grasses when used as directed. This guide highlights five effective sprays and concentrates, detailing who each product is best for, potential limitations, and how to use them for best results. Ideal buyers include homeowners wanting simple hose-end treatments, lawn care enthusiasts seeking fast-acting controls, and those managing mixed-grass lawns with creeping Charlie present.
Summary of selected products
| Product | Best For | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ortho Chickweed, Clover and Oxalis Killer for Lawns Concentrate | Small to medium lawns; DIY sprayer users | Up to 3,200 sq ft | Concentrate; root-kill; safe on common grasses when used as directed |
| Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray | Quick, one-step control; hose-end users | Up to 5,000 sq ft | Kills creeping Charlie to the root; fast results |
| Fiesta Turf Weed Killer Herbicide Concentrate | Large areas; pet-friendly entry after drying | Up to 10,000 sq ft | Iron-based; rain-fast after 3 hours |
| Bonide Weed Beater Ultra Ready to Use | Broad weed control in lawns; convenient | Per treatment coverage varies | Kills over 200 broadleaf weeds; safe for grass when used as directed |
| Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed, Clover and Oxalis Killer for Lawns | Keeps creeping Charlie in check; ready-to-spray | Per bottle coverage varies | Kills to the roots; safe for common lawn grasses |
Ortho Chickweed, Clover and Oxalis Killer for Lawns Concentrate
Best for smaller, contained lawns that tolerate a concentrated spray. This lawn-specific weed killer concentrate treats up to 3,200 sq ft when diluted per directions. It targets creeping Charlie, wild violet, and other broadleaf weeds while protecting common turf species like buffalograss and fescue.
- Best for: DIYers with a sprayer and a defined lawn area.
- Why selected: Concentrate formula allows precise mixing for controlled application.
Caution: Apply only within recommended temperature ranges (below 90°F) to avoid reduced efficacy. Follow label dilution and application rates to prevent turf injury.
Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray
Better for homeowners seeking a quick, one-step spray without mixing. This hose-end product covers up to 5,000 sq ft and targets creeping Charlie, dandelion, clover, crabgrass, and other common lawn weeds. It’s designed to be safe for many lawn grasses when used as directed.
- Best for: Quick, ready-to-use weed control with minimal setup.
- Why selected: One application can deliver visible improvement in many lawns.
Caution: Not suitable for all lawn types—verify compatibility with your specific grass before application. Avoid applying during extreme heat for best results.
Fiesta: Turf Weed Killer Herbicide Concentrate
Best for large areas where a multi-purpose weed killer is needed. This iron-based concentrate covers up to 10,000 sq ft and is suitable for post-emergent broadleaf control. It dries to a residue-free finish suitable for homes with pets after the treated area dries.
- Best for: Large lawns and open spaces needing broadleaf weed control.
- Why selected: Large coverage makes it efficient for big yards.
Caution: Mixing requires adhering to the specified dilution ratios to ensure effectiveness and minimize turf impact. Avoid use on certain sensitive ornamentals or non-lawn areas.
Bonide Weed Beater Ultra Ready to Use
Better for broad weed control in lawns, especially if you want a ready-to-use spray without mixing. It claims to handle a wide range of broadleaf weeds, including dandelion, clover, and oxalis. It’s designed to spare many grass types when used as directed.
- Best for: Quick, all-in-one weed control in established lawns.
- Why selected: Comprehensive broadleaf weed targeting without pre-mixing steps.
Caution: Performance depends on accurate application and timing. Avoid treating stressed or drought-affected lawns, which can increase injury risk.
Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-to-Spray (2-Pack)
Best for households wanting additional value and flexibility with two ready-to-use bottles. It kills listed weeds to the root and is formulated for use on bermudagrass, buffalograss, fescues, Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and zoysiagrass when used as directed.
- Best for: Two-bottle solution for ongoing lawn weed control.
- Why selected: Two-pack offers extended coverage and convenience.
Caution: Not all turf species are listed as compatible; check the label for exclusions before spraying near sensitive grasses.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when choosing a creeping Charlie spray for lawns:
- Grass type compatibility: Confirm whether the product is safe for your lawn grasses (fescues, bluegrass, bermudagrass, etc.).
- Form factor: Choose ready-to-spray for convenience or concentrate for bulk coverage and control over dilution.
- Coverage needs: Assess lawn size to pick a product offering adequate square-foot coverage per bottle or per dilution.
- Speed of results: Some formulas act within hours; others may take days to show visible results.
- Application method: Hose-end sprayers are quick; backpack sprayers or split-spray setups allow precise targeting.
- Safety and re-entry: Note wait times after application, especially for pet and family access to treated areas.
- Weather and timing: Apply during moderate temperatures and avoid rainfall within a few hours of application for best results.
- weed specificity: Ensure the product lists creeping Charlie or ground ivy among targeted weeds.
FAQ
- What grass types are safe when using these products? – Most products are labeled for common lawn grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, fescues, bermudagrass, ryegrass, and zoysiagrass when used as directed. Always read the label for your specific grass type.
- Can I use these on ornamental beds near my lawn? – These products are designed for lawns. Do not apply near garden beds or desirable ornamentals unless the label explicitly allows it.
- Will creeping Charlie come back after treatment? – Some products provide rapid kill for the listed weeds, but creeping Charlie can re-emerge from roots or new seed; follow-up applications may be necessary as directed.
- Is there a waiting period before re-entry after spraying? – Most products specify a re-entry interval after the solution dries; refer to the product label for exact timing.
- Do I need to spot-treat or spray the entire lawn? – If creeping Charlie is localized, spot-treatting can work; for widespread infestation, a full-lawn treatment may be more effective.
- Can I mix concentrates with other products? – Do not mix products unless the label explicitly allows it. Mixing can cause turf injury or reduced efficacy.