10 Best Weed Killers for Creeping Charlie That Actually Work

I’ve found that effective creeping Charlie control requires herbicides containing triclopyr, 2,4-D, or dicamba as active ingredients. Products like Hi-Yield Triclopyr Ester and Ortho Weed B Gon consistently deliver systemic action that kills the roots, not just the visible growth. Bonide Chickweed Killer covers up to 10,000 square feet, while Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D offers economical treatment for larger properties. These selective herbicides target broadleaf weeds without damaging your grass when applied correctly during active growth periods, and I’ll guide you through each option’s specific advantages.

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Notable Insights

• Sublime Weed Killer targets creeping Charlie specifically with fast-acting results and no bleaching effects on lawns.
• Bonide Chickweed, Clover and Oxalis Killer’s concentrated formula effectively controls creeping Charlie among over 100 broadleaf weeds.
• Hi-Yield Triclopyr Ester eliminates tough broadleaf weeds including creeping Charlie while protecting cool-season grasses from damage.
• ITS Supply T-Zone Turf Herbicide provides reliable creeping Charlie control across varying temperature conditions down to 50°F.
• Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D offers an economical concentrate solution for persistent creeping Charlie control in large areas.

Sublime Weed Killer, Fast-Acting Defense Against Crabgrass & Dandelions (1 Quart)

When you’re battling stubborn weeds that resist standard treatments, Sublime Weed Killer delivers the targeted control you need for persistent invaders like creeping Charlie, crabgrass, and dandelions. This selective herbicide blend provides broad spectrum defense against tough turfgrass invaders, including spurge, yellow woodsorrel, and wild violet, without causing unsightly bleaching effects that damage your lawn’s appearance. You’ll appreciate its versatility across diverse landscapes, from residential ornamental turf to golf courses, parks, and athletic fields. The one-quart size offers efficient coverage for smaller areas, while the superior formula guarantees fast-acting results against weeds that typically challenge homeowners and professional groundskeepers alike.

Best For: Homeowners and professional groundskeepers who need fast-acting, selective weed control for persistent invaders like crabgrass, dandelions, and creeping Charlie across residential lawns, golf courses, parks, and athletic fields.

Pros:

• Broad spectrum control against multiple tough weeds including spurge, yellow woodsorrel, and wild violet
• No bleaching effects that damage lawn appearance, unlike other weed killers
• Versatile application across diverse landscapes from residential turf to professional athletic fields

Cons:

• One-quart size may require multiple purchases for larger lawn areas
• Limited to selective herbicide control, may not eliminate all weed types
• Fast-acting formula may require careful application to avoid potential overuse

Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer for Lawns, 32 Oz. (Pack of 2)

Homeowners who struggle with persistent broadleaf weeds that resist standard lawn treatments will find Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer particularly effective for their needs. This selective herbicide targets challenging weeds like creeping charlie, ground ivy, and wild violet while protecting your grass from damage. The ready-to-spray concentrate covers up to 6,400 square feet, making it suitable for medium to large lawns with widespread infestations. You’ll appreciate the rainproof formula that becomes weather-resistant within six hours, ensuring treatments remain effective even if unexpected showers occur. The systemic action kills weeds down to their roots, preventing regrowth and providing long-lasting control.

Best For: Homeowners with medium to large lawns who need to eliminate persistent broadleaf weeds like chickweed, clover, oxalis, creeping charlie, ground ivy, and wild violet without damaging their grass.

Pros:

• Selective formula kills tough weeds to the roots while protecting lawn grass from harm
• Ready-to-spray concentrate covers up to 6,400 square feet with rainproof protection in 6 hours
• Targets multiple difficult-to-control broadleaf weeds including creeping charlie, ground ivy, and wild violet

Cons:

• Limited to broadleaf weeds only and won’t control grassy weeds or other weed types
• Requires careful application timing and weather conditions for optimal effectiveness
• May need multiple treatments for established or particularly stubborn weed infestations

Hi-Yield (35261) Triclopyr Ester (8oz)

Hi-Yield (35261) Triclopyr Ester stands out as the ideal solution for gardeners managing cool-season grasses who need targeted broadleaf weed control. This liquid concentrate effectively eliminates actively growing annual and perennial broadleaf weeds, including stubborn varieties like Oxalis and Wild Violet that often resist other treatments. You’ll find it works exceptionally well on perennial bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue ornamental turf, making it perfect for most northern lawns. However, you must avoid using this product on warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass, St. Augustine, or Zoysiagrass, as it can cause significant damage. Always consult the label for specific application rates.

Best For: Homeowners with cool-season grass lawns (perennial bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, or tall fescue) who need to eliminate stubborn broadleaf weeds like Oxalis and Wild Violet.

Pros:

• Effectively controls difficult broadleaf weeds that resist other treatments, including Oxalis and Wild Violet
• Works on popular cool-season grasses like perennial bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue
• Liquid concentrate format allows for flexible application and coverage

Cons:

• Cannot be used on warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass, St. Augustine, Bahiagrass, or Zoysiagrass
• Application rates vary by lawn dimensions and grass type, requiring careful label consultation
• Limited to ornamental turf use only, restricting versatility for other landscape areas

Ortho Weed B-gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer for Lawns Concentrate (16 fl. oz.)

For lawn enthusiasts dealing with persistent broadleaf invaders, Ortho Weed B-gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer offers targeted control that protects your grass while eliminating troublesome weeds. This concentrated formula specifically targets ground ivy, commonly known as Creeping Charlie, along with chickweed, clover, oxalis, speedwell, and wild violet. You’ll appreciate its triclopyr-based active ingredient, which provides selective herbicidal action that won’t damage your established turf. The 16-ounce concentrate treats up to 3,200 square feet, delivering excellent coverage for most residential lawns. Apply during active growing seasons when temperatures stay below 90°F, using either an Ortho Dial ‘N Spray or tank sprayer for proper distribution.

Best For: Homeowners with established lawns who need to eliminate persistent broadleaf weeds like chickweed, clover, oxalis, and Creeping Charlie without damaging their grass.

Pros:

• Selective herbicide that targets tough broadleaf weeds while protecting established turf grass
• Large coverage area of 3,200 square feet from a single 16 fl. oz. concentrate bottle
• Rainproof formula within 6 hours and includes hard-to-kill weeds like ground ivy (Creeping Charlie)

Cons:

• Cannot be applied directly from container and requires additional sprayer equipment for application
• Temperature restrictions limit application to below 90°F, which may restrict use during hot summer months
• Only effective on actively growing weeds, requiring proper timing for optimal results

Bonide Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer (128 oz Ready-to-Use Spray)

Bonide’s Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer stands out as the ideal solution for gardeners battling persistent creeping charlie across large lawn areas. This 128-ounce ready-to-use spray contains dicamba and triclopyr, two powerful herbicides that penetrate deep into root systems while preserving your grass. You’ll appreciate the convenient spray format that requires no mixing, and one pint effectively treats up to 10,000 square feet of turf. The systemic action begins working overnight and becomes rainproof within hours, ensuring reliable results even with unpredictable weather. For maximum effectiveness, avoid mowing 1-2 days before and after application to maximize herbicide absorption.

Best For: Homeowners with large lawns who need to eliminate stubborn broadleaf weeds like chickweed, clover, and dandelions without damaging their grass.

Pros:

• Covers up to 10,000 square feet per pint with systemic action that kills weeds down to the roots
• Ready-to-use formula requires no mixing and becomes rainproof within hours of application
• Targets over 100 different weed types while being safe for lawn grasses

Cons:

• Requires careful timing as you cannot mow 1-2 days before or after application
• Contains strong herbicides (dicamba and triclopyr) that may pose environmental concerns
• At 8 pounds for the 128 oz container, it may be heavy and cumbersome for some users to handle

Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray, 32 oz

Looking for a convenient, no-mixing solution that tackles creeping charlie across large lawn areas? Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Ready-To-Spray delivers exactly that convenience, featuring a 32-ounce container that covers up to 5,000 square feet. This fast-acting formula combines powerful active ingredients including 2,4-D, quinclorac, and dicamba to eliminate creeping charlie alongside 200+ other stubborn weeds. You’ll appreciate the simple application process—just attach your garden hose, turn on the water, and spray evenly until your lawn surface appears wet. The formula becomes rainproof within one hour and works best on young, actively growing weeds when temperatures range between 45°F and 90°F.

Best For: Homeowners with large lawns (up to 5,000 sq. ft.) who want a convenient, ready-to-use solution for eliminating creeping charlie and other stubborn weeds without the hassle of mixing chemicals.

Pros:

• No-mix convenience with ready-to-spray formula that connects directly to your garden hose
• Fast-acting formula that kills over 200 weeds including tough ones like creeping charlie, dandelion, and crabgrass with one application
• Becomes rainproof in just 1 hour and covers up to 5,000 square feet per 32-ounce container

Cons:

• Temperature restrictions limit application effectiveness (must be between 45°F-90°F, with additional Bermudagrass restriction above 85°F)
• Not available in several states including Florida, Hawaii, Louisiana, and Guam due to regulatory restrictions
• Contains multiple chemical active ingredients that require keeping people and pets off treated areas until completely dry

ITS Supply T-Zone Turf Herbicide – 1 Quart

ITS Supply T-Zone Turf Herbicide stands out as the premier choice for property managers, landscapers, and homeowners who need reliable creeping charlie control across diverse temperature conditions. This professional-grade herbicide combines four powerful active ingredients—triclopyr, 2,4-D, dicamba, and sulfentrazone—creating a thorough formula that targets stubborn broadleaf weeds effectively. You’ll appreciate its unique cold-weather effectiveness, maintaining potency at temperatures as low as 50°F when other herbicides fail. The fast visual response reduces callbacks and complaints, making it ideal for commercial applications where quick results matter. Beyond creeping charlie, this versatile herbicide excels at yellow nutsedge suppression, addressing multiple problem weeds simultaneously across residential lawns, commercial properties, and golf courses.

Best For: Property managers, landscapers, and homeowners who need reliable broadleaf weed control, especially creeping charlie and yellow nutsedge, across residential lawns, commercial properties, and golf courses in varying temperature conditions.

Pros:

• Effective in cold weather conditions as low as 50°F when other herbicides fail
• Fast visual response reduces callbacks and complaints for commercial applications
• Four-ingredient formula targets multiple stubborn weeds including creeping charlie and yellow nutsedge

Cons:

• Contains multiple chemical active ingredients that may raise environmental concerns
• Professional-grade formulation may be too strong for sensitive turf areas
• Specific application directions not provided, requiring additional research for proper use

Bonide Chickweed, Clover and Oxalis Killer (16 oz Concentrate)

When you’re dealing with persistent broadleaf weeds that resist standard herbicides, this concentrated formula delivers industrial-strength control that targets over 100 difficult weeds including creeping charlie. The Bonide concentrate contains Horsepower® as its active ingredient, which penetrates deep into root systems for complete elimination. You’ll appreciate that this herbicide works fast, beginning overnight and becoming rainproof within hours of application. One 16-ounce bottle covers up to 5,000 square feet when properly mixed, making it cost-effective for larger lawn areas. The formula selectively kills broadleaf weeds while protecting your grass when applied according to directions, ensuring your lawn stays healthy during treatment.

Best For: Homeowners with large lawn areas who need to eliminate stubborn broadleaf weeds like chickweed, clover, dandelions, and creeping charlie without damaging their grass.

Pros:

• Industrial-strength concentrate covers up to 5,000 square feet per 16 oz bottle, making it highly cost-effective for large areas
• Fast-acting formula begins working overnight and becomes rainproof within hours of application
• Selective herbicide that kills over 100 types of broadleaf weeds while safely preserving lawn grass when used as directed

Cons:

• Requires mixing before application, which adds an extra step compared to ready-to-use formulas
• Mowing restrictions require waiting 1-2 days before and after application, limiting lawn maintenance flexibility
• Concentrated formula increases risk of over-application or mixing errors that could potentially damage grass

Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D WEED KILLER, 32oz – Quart

Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D Weed Killer stands out as the top choice for homeowners managing large properties who need an economical, concentrate solution for persistent creeping charlie infestations. This powerful concentrate contains dimethylamine salt of 2,4-D, which effectively targets broadleaf weeds while preserving your grass. You’ll mix just 1 to 1.5 ounces per gallon of water, making this 32-ounce bottle incredibly cost-effective for treating extensive areas. The formula works quickly, showing noticeable results within 48 hours of application. You’ll typically need 3-4 applications for ideal creeping charlie control, but the low application rate of 1-4 pints per acre guarantees excellent value for larger treatment areas.

Best For: Homeowners with large properties who need an economical concentrate solution for controlling persistent broadleaf weeds like creeping charlie, dandelions, and clover without harming grass.

Pros:

• Extremely cost-effective with 1-1.5 oz per gallon mixing ratio making the 32 oz bottle treat large areas
• Fast-acting formula shows noticeable results within 48 hours of application
• Selective herbicide that effectively kills broadleaf weeds while preserving grass in turf areas

Cons:

• Requires multiple applications (3-4 treatments) for optimal control of persistent weeds
• Must be diluted before use, making it less convenient than ready-to-spray products
• Not safe for pets during application and they must be kept away until the treated area is completely dry

Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer for Lawns with Comfort Wand (1 gal.)

Ortho WeedClear Weed Killer stands out as the ideal solution for homeowners who need precise, targeted weed control without the hassle of mixing chemicals or complicated equipment. The battery-powered Comfort Wand eliminates guesswork, allowing you to deliver herbicide directly to individual weeds like creeping Charlie while protecting your lawn. This fast-acting formula works within hours, targeting over 250 weed species down to the root system. You’ll appreciate the rainproof protection that activates just one hour after application, ensuring weather won’t compromise your efforts. The spot-treatment design works best on actively growing weeds during spring or fall when temperatures stay below 90°F for perfect results.

Best For: Homeowners who need precise spot treatment for individual weeds in their lawn without harming the grass and want an easy-to-use solution that doesn’t require mixing chemicals.

Pros:

• Battery-powered Comfort Wand provides precise application directly to weeds without affecting surrounding grass
• Fast-acting formula kills over 250 weed species down to the root within hours of application
• Rainproof within 1 hour and works on multiple grass types including Bermudagrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and Zoysiagrass

Cons:

• Limited to spot treatment only and cannot be used on entire lawn areas
• Temperature restrictions require application when daytime temperatures are below 90°F
• Not suitable for St. Augustinegrass Floratam variety, limiting compatibility with some lawn types

Factors to Consider When Choosing Weed Killer for Creeping Charlie

When I’m helping you select the right weed killer for creeping charlie, several key factors determine which product will work best in your specific lawn situation. The active ingredient’s effectiveness against this persistent ground ivy, your preferred application method, and your grass type’s tolerance all play significant roles in successful treatment. I’ll also guide you through evaluating coverage area needs and weather resistance properties, ensuring you choose a herbicide that delivers reliable results without damaging your desirable turf.

Active Ingredient Effectiveness

Success in controlling Creeping Charlie hinges on selecting herbicides with proven active ingredients that specifically target broadleaf weeds. I’ve found that Triclopyr, 2,4-D, and Dicamba are the most effective compounds for eliminating this persistent invader. These ingredients work by disrupting the plant’s growth hormones, causing cellular breakdown that leads to complete death within days.

When I evaluate products, I look for herbicides containing these key ingredients, as they’re specifically formulated to penetrate Creeping Charlie’s waxy leaves. Triclopyr offers excellent systemic action, moving through the plant to kill roots, while 2,4-D provides rapid visible results. Dicamba enhances absorption and translocation throughout the weed’s structure. Choose products with these proven active ingredients, and you’ll see dramatically improved results compared to generic broadleaf herbicides.

Application Method Options

Once you’ve identified the right active ingredients, selecting the proper application method becomes equally essential for achieving peak control over Creeping Charlie. Ready-to-use sprays offer convenience without mixing requirements, while concentrated formulations provide cost-effective solutions that require dilution before application. I recommend choosing spot treatment products for targeting individual weeds directly, or selecting broad-coverage options for widespread infestations across larger lawn areas.

Weather conditions notably impact herbicide effectiveness, so I always check that products will be rainproof within the specified timeframe after application. Ideal temperatures between 45°F and 90°F guarantee maximum efficacy, as herbicide performance decreases outside this range. Using hose-end sprayers or battery-powered wands facilitates even distribution while minimizing overspray on desirable grass, ultimately promoting more effective weed control throughout your lawn.

Grass Type Compatibility

Compatibility between your chosen herbicide and existing grass type represents the most essential factor in successful Creeping Charlie elimination without lawn damage. Hardy grass varieties like Kentucky Bluegrass, Fescues, and Ryegrass typically tolerate most broadleaf herbicides well, giving you flexibility in product selection. However, sensitive grasses such as St. Augustinegrass and Zoysiagrass require careful herbicide choice, as certain chemicals can cause discoloration or permanent damage to these delicate varieties. I recommend reading product labels thoroughly to identify grass-safe formulations before application. Understanding your specific grass cultivar’s tolerance levels helps you select herbicides that effectively target Creeping Charlie while preserving your lawn’s health. This knowledge prevents costly mistakes and guarantees successful weed control without compromising your turf’s appearance or health.

Coverage Area Requirements

Before purchasing any herbicide, calculating your lawn’s total square footage guarantees you select products with adequate coverage capacity for complete Creeping Charlie elimination. I recommend measuring your lawn‘s length and width, then multiplying these dimensions to determine the exact area needing treatment. Many effective weed killers designed for Creeping Charlie can cover impressive areas, with some premium formulations treating up to 10,000 square feet per container. This coverage capacity becomes particularly important when dealing with widespread infestations that span multiple lawn sections. When you’re comparing products, I suggest dividing your total lawn area by the manufacturer’s stated coverage to determine how many applications you’ll need. Choosing products with appropriate coverage prevents incomplete treatments that allow persistent weeds to return.

Weather Resistance Properties

Weather resistance properties determine how effectively your chosen herbicide performs when Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate with your application schedule. I’ve found that products like Ortho Weed B Gon become rainproof within six hours, protecting your investment from unexpected downpours that could wash away untreated formulations. Temperature considerations are equally critical for successful creeping charlie control, as most herbicides work best when applied below 90°F during cooler weather conditions. Fast-acting formulas demonstrate results within hours when environmental factors align properly, targeting weeds during their active growth periods. I recommend selecting weather-resistant products that maintain their efficacy across varying conditions, ensuring your application efforts aren’t wasted when rain arrives sooner than forecasted, ultimately providing more reliable and consistent weed elimination results.

Concentration Vs Ready-To-Use

When choosing between concentrated and ready-to-use weed killers for creeping charlie control, you’ll need to evaluate your experience level, budget constraints, and application preferences. Concentrated formulations offer superior value since they provide greater coverage per dollar spent, allowing you to treat larger areas effectively. However, they require additional equipment like sprayers and careful measuring to achieve proper dilution ratios. Ready-to-use products eliminate guesswork entirely, coming pre-mixed in convenient spray bottles that you can apply immediately without preparation. I recommend concentrated options for experienced gardeners managing extensive creeping charlie infestations, while ready-to-use formulations work best for beginners or small-scale treatments. Consider your comfort level with mixing chemicals and the size of your affected lawn area.

Safety and Environmental Impact

While effective creeping charlie control remains your primary goal, selecting herbicides that protect both your family and the surrounding ecosystem should guide your decision-making process. I recommend choosing broadleaf-specific herbicides that target creeping charlie without harming beneficial grasses or non-target plants in your landscape. Look for products with quick rainproofing capabilities, which reduce runoff into water sources and protect local waterways from contamination. Always verify that your chosen herbicide complies with local regulations, as restrictions vary greatly by region and can affect product availability. Consider biodegradable formulations or natural ingredient options, which break down more safely in soil compared to synthetic alternatives. Check safety labels carefully to understand risks to beneficial insects, wildlife, and pollinators, ensuring your weed control efforts support rather than damage the broader ecosystem.

On a final note

I’ve presented eight effective weed killers that’ll help you eliminate creeping charlie from your lawn. Each product contains specific herbicides like triclopyr, 2,4-D, or dicamba that target this persistent weed’s root system. Whether you choose a concentrate for large areas or ready-to-use spray for spot treatments, consistent application and proper timing will give you the best results. Remember to follow label directions carefully, and don’t get discouraged if it takes multiple treatments to achieve complete control.