Lawn Invasion – Ground Ivy

Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea), also known as creeping Charlie, can be a very stubborn lawn foe. It grows well in shady and moist areas and is a member of the mint family. Ground ivy is a vine and it sometimes sprouts small purple flowers.

Ground ivy is troublesome because it grows rather aggressively and can push out other plants by taking the nutrients from the soil. What makes ground ivy so frustrating is that its nodes can sprout up anywhere and are so close to the ground that they can spread very quickly.

How to Remove Ground Ivy

There are several ways to prevent and remove ground ivy from your property. Each has different degrees of effectiveness. If you want to ensure ground ivy is removed, contact a lawn care expert.

1. Allow your grass to grow

By allowing your grass to grow and cutting it to a height between 2.5 – 3 inches, you’ll be able to have stronger turf and create shade that prevents ground ivy from receiving enough light to flourish. Healthier grass always means less ground ivy.

2. Manual labor

Another option that is quite time-consuming and labor-intensive is pulling up the weeds yourself. This method will get the job done, but you will have to be diligent about maintenance and depending on how much ground ivy you have in your lawn, it may take a while. You can also use a rake to pull up the weed and then mow the lawn there pretty low. Using this method requires you to keep an eye on this area, as the ivy is likely to grow back. It can also damage your lawn and make it possible for new weeds to come in.

3. Herbicide

There are several options of herbicide that can be used to take out ground ivy. This may not be the solution for you if the ground ivy has infiltrated your prized flowerbed or other such plant life because there may be collateral damage to the items in your lawn that you want to keep around. The timing of using herbicide is quite important and use it in fall is ideal, especially if trying to do it yourself.

Professional Ground Ivy Removal

If ground ivy is a problem in your lawn, Green Lawn Fertilizing may have a solution for you. We have experienced professionals who have dealt with the worst of the worst when it comes to weeds and other invasive foliage.

Call us today for a free consultation, and let us handle your ground ivy problems.