Best herbicide for Creeping Charlie that actually works
By My Yard Editorial Team · 7/28/2026
The Quick Answer
Use a triclopyr-based broadleaf herbicide in fall (late September to early November) when the plant is pulling nutrients to its roots. Spring spraying gets maybe 40% control.
The Witty Breakdown
Creeping Charlie (ground ivy) spreads by stolons — every node roots. Pulling it leaves fragments that celebrate their independence.
The borax home remedy has a real but tiny effective window and a wide boron-toxicity window. Skip it.
Step-by-Step Fix
- 1
Spray in fall, on a day above 60°F with no rain for 24 hours.
- 2
Use a product containing triclopyr, not just 2,4-D.
- 3
Repeat 3–4 weeks later on survivors.
- 4
Thicken the turf — ground ivy invades thin, shady, damp lawns.
Pro-Tip / Do Not Do This
Do not use borax. Boron doesn't break down, and you can sterilize that patch of soil for years.
Was this helpful?
Related Guides
Community Comments
No comments yet — be the first neighbor to weigh in.