Creeping Charlie

Question

Does anyone know how to get rid of Creeping Charlie?  When our snow melts here in the UP of Michigan, I'm going to have to try and get rid of this plant.  It's creeping into our grass and also my flower beds.  Thanks.  Judy from Ishpeming, MI

Douglas Hunt · Answer

Judy, your best bet is an herbicide containing Dicamba. Make sure you do not use this around shallow-rooted trees or shrubs, however. The folks at the University of Wisconsin extension service have come up with a battle strategy for dealing with creeping Charlie. I say battle because there's no silver bullet when it comes to this weed; it may well take you all season to get it under control. You'll find their tips here: http://barron.uwex.edu/files/2010/05/creepingcharlie.pdf