Creeping Charlie (also known as Ground Ivy or Glechoma hederacea) is one of the toughest and most invasive lawn weeds, thriving in moist, shady areas across the U.S., U.K., and Europe. This persistent weed spreads rapidly through its creeping stems, making it difficult to control using standard lawn maintenance methods.
For homeowners and gardeners seeking effective control, choosing the best weed killer for Creeping Charlie can make all the difference between a clean lawn and a constant battle.
By the end, you’ll understand which herbicides work best for your type of lawn and climate, how to apply them safely, and what results to expect.
This comprehensive guide explores the 20 best weed killers that have proven to eliminate Creeping Charlie effectively. Whether you want a selective herbicide for lawns or a powerful non-selective option for complete eradication, this guide covers it all. Let’s dig into the top-rated solutions trusted by professionals and homeowners worldwide.
20 Best Weed Killer That Will Kill Creeping Charlie
1. Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed, Clover & Oxalis Killer – Best Overall for Creeping Charlie
Ortho Weed B Gon is a powerful selective herbicide formulated to kill Creeping Charlie without harming your lawn. It’s designed to target broadleaf weeds while leaving grasses safe and green. Many lawn care experts in the U.S. recommend it for residential lawns where Creeping Charlie has taken over.
The fast-acting formula penetrates deep into the roots, ensuring long-term control and preventing regrowth. With its ready-to-use spray bottle, it’s easy for homeowners to apply without specialized equipment. Results typically appear within 24 to 48 hours, making it one of the fastest-performing options on the market.
For best results, apply when the weather is calm and dry to prevent drift onto desirable plants. This product remains rainproof within one hour, offering durable protection even during unpredictable weather conditions.
Pros:
• Safe on lawns
• Fast-acting
• Deep root kill
• Easy to apply
• Rainproof formula
• Trusted brand
• Long-lasting
Cons:
• Slight odor
• Not organic
• May need reapplication
2. Roundup UltraMax – Best Industrial-Strength Option
Roundup UltraMax from Monsanto (now Bayer) delivers professional-grade power ideal for large infestations of Creeping Charlie. As a non-selective herbicide, it targets all vegetation, ensuring total elimination of unwanted weeds. It’s particularly effective for driveways, walkways, and fence lines.
Containing glyphosate as its active ingredient, this product works by moving through the plant’s system to kill both leaves and roots. Its high concentration allows for flexible dilution based on your specific needs, making it a favorite among commercial users and landscapers. It’s widely used across the U.K. and E.U. for both agricultural and domestic control.
While highly potent, care must be taken to avoid overspray onto desirable vegetation. Always wear gloves and protective gear during application for safety.
Pros:
• Professional strength
• Complete root kill
• Long-lasting results
• Concentrated formula
• Global reliability
• Flexible usage
• Rainfast in 2 hrs
Cons:
• Kills all plants
• Needs caution
• Not pet-friendly
3. Crossbow Specialty Herbicide – Best for Brush and Vines
Crossbow Specialty Herbicide is a blend of 2,4-D and triclopyr, giving it unmatched effectiveness against Creeping Charlie, vines, and woody plants. It’s a selective systemic herbicide, meaning it travels within the plant to destroy it from the inside out. Lawn care experts praise it for targeting broadleaf weeds while sparing most grasses.
It’s perfect for overgrown properties, fence rows, and pasture edges. The dual-action ingredients ensure both contact and systemic control, making it ideal for thick, creeping infestations. It remains one of the most recommended choices by professional groundskeepers in both the U.S. and Europe.
Apply during warm weather for best absorption. Because of its strength, only minimal reapplications are needed per season.
Pros:
• Dual-action kill
• Systemic absorption
• Safe for grasses
• Controls vines
• Professional-grade
• Durable results
• Covers large areas
Cons:
• Strong odor
• Not for small lawns
• Restricted in some regions
4. Gallup Home & Garden Glyphosate Weed Killer – Best for UK Users
Gallup Home & Garden offers a high-quality glyphosate-based weed killer trusted by homeowners across the U.K. and Europe. It’s particularly known for its ability to completely eradicate Creeping Charlie, dandelions, nettles, and other stubborn weeds. Its systemic action ensures total plant death, roots included.
This herbicide is excellent for non-crop areas such as patios, gravel paths, and garden borders. It’s easy to mix, highly economical, and provides lasting weed control for up to six months. For environmentally sensitive areas, its precision nozzle helps reduce overspray and contamination.
While non-selective, careful application with a sprayer ensures it only targets problem weeds. Always follow the manufacturer’s dilution guidelines for best outcomes.
Pros:
• Trusted UK brand
• Total weed kill
• Systemic control
• Cost-effective
• Easy mixing
• Long protection
• Minimal odor
Cons:
• Non-selective
• Requires mixing
• Slow visible results
5. Hi-Yield Triclopyr Ester – Best for Creeping Vines
Hi-Yield Triclopyr Ester is a potent brush and vine killer widely available in the U.S. and effective on Creeping Charlie. It’s designed to penetrate tough, waxy leaves that resist ordinary herbicides. The ester formulation ensures deep systemic movement through the plant’s vascular system.
This product is best used for spot treatment or mixed with a surfactant for improved leaf coverage. When used properly, results can be seen within days, with full control achieved in a few weeks. It’s ideal for large rural properties, pastures, and overgrown lawns.
While powerful, it requires precision during application to prevent damage to nearby desirable plants. Protective clothing and controlled spraying are recommended.
Pros:
• Powerful formula
• Systemic control
• Fast results
• Penetrates leaves
• Good for vines
• Long-lasting
• Mixes easily
Cons:
• Strong odor
• Not selective
• Needs caution
6. Compare-N-Save 41% Glyphosate – Best Value Concentrate
Compare-N-Save 41% Glyphosate provides excellent value for homeowners tackling large infestations of Creeping Charlie. This concentrated non-selective herbicide offers professional-level performance at a fraction of the price. Its systemic action ensures that it kills weeds down to the roots.
This product covers up to 25,000 square feet, making it ideal for large properties or repeated use. It’s compatible with most backpack or hand sprayers, ensuring even coverage. Within 7–10 days, users typically see yellowing, followed by complete die-off.
Though non-selective, when applied carefully, it remains one of the most economical and effective choices available online, including Amazon and U.K. garden stores.
Pros:
• Affordable price
• Large coverage
• Deep root kill
• Easy to mix
• Long shelf life
• Rainfast quickly
• Works on vines
Cons:
• Non-selective
• Visible results slow
• Can harm lawns
7. BioAdvanced Weed & Feed – Best for Lawns with Creeping Charlie
BioAdvanced Weed & Feed combines herbicide and fertilizer in one, offering a dual benefit for lawns affected by Creeping Charlie. It kills broadleaf weeds while promoting healthy grass regrowth. Its 2-in-1 formula is ideal for homeowners seeking convenience and visible improvement.
It’s designed to be applied with a broadcast spreader, ensuring even distribution across the lawn. Within a week, users typically notice wilting of weeds and greener turf. The product is safe for use on most turfgrass varieties, including fescue and Kentucky bluegrass.
For best outcomes, apply when the soil is moist and avoid mowing two days before and after application.
Pros:
• Fertilizes and kills
• Lawn safe
• Easy spreading
• Dual benefit
• Quick results
• Strengthens grass
• Trusted brand
Cons:
• Weather sensitive
• May stain concrete
• Not organic
8. Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns – Best for Quick Results
Spectracide Weed Stop delivers visible results in as little as six hours, making it one of the fastest-working weed killers for Creeping Charlie. It’s selective, meaning it targets weeds while sparing grass. This makes it perfect for residential lawns and small garden areas.
The formula kills over 200 types of broadleaf weeds, including clover, dandelion, and ground ivy. It’s easy to use with a hose-end sprayer, making application efficient and mess-free. The rainproof protection ensures lasting results even after unexpected showers.
Best applied during active weed growth, it’s a trusted solution for homeowners who need results fast.
Pros:
• Fast results
• Lawn safe
• Easy hose use
• Kills 200+ weeds
• Rainproof
• Affordable
• Widely available
Cons:
• Chemical odor
• May need reapplication
• Not organic
9. Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D – Best Classic Broadleaf Herbicide
Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D has been a trusted weed killer for decades, effective against Creeping Charlie and over 80 other broadleaf weeds. It’s a selective systemic herbicide safe for most grasses. Its affordability and efficiency make it popular among both farmers and homeowners.
The product is compatible with sprayers and works best when applied during warm, dry conditions. Within a few days, the weed leaves begin to curl and brown, indicating systemic absorption. It’s also suitable for pastures, lawns, and non-crop areas.
This formula provides reliable, long-term control without harming grass roots, making it a great choice for consistent maintenance.
Pros:
• Affordable
• Time-tested
• Lawn safe
• Easy to apply
• Fast visible kill
• Systemic action
• Long-lasting
Cons:
• Mild odor
• Needs care
• Avoid windy days
10. Gordon’s Trimec Lawn Weed Killer – Best for Thick Lawns
Gordon’s Trimec Lawn Weed Killer is another powerful option for those struggling with Creeping Charlie in thick turf. It’s formulated with a mix of 2,4-D, MCPP, and Dicamba, offering multi-ingredient control. The blend targets the root systems of ground ivy and other tough weeds.
It’s effective even in cooler weather, extending the spraying season for homeowners. The concentrated formula provides high yield, covering large areas at a low cost per application. It’s particularly suitable for professional landscapers and large lawn owners.
The herbicide works quickly without burning grass, making it both safe and effective.
Pros:
• Multi-ingredient
• Root-level kill
• Works in cold
• Safe for lawns
• Cost-efficient
• Reliable results
• Professional-grade
Cons:
• Concentrate only
• Needs dilution
• Chemical odor
11. Tordon RTU Specialty Herbicide – Best for Persistent Creeping Charlie Regrowth
Tordon RTU by Corteva Agriscience is a ready-to-use systemic herbicide that’s extremely effective on perennial and woody weeds like Creeping Charlie. It penetrates through the foliage and translocates deep into the roots, ensuring total plant death. The RTU formulation saves time, as no dilution or mixing is needed.
This herbicide is particularly suitable for fence lines, tree bases, and unmanaged lawn areas where Creeping Charlie tends to reappear. Its blue dye helps you see where you’ve sprayed, avoiding overlap and waste. Homeowners who need long-term suppression of invasive vines find it reliable and powerful.
Apply during active weed growth for maximum uptake. Avoid use near ornamentals or edible plants since it’s non-selective.
Pros:
• Ready to use
• Deep penetration
• Visible dye
• Long-term control
• Systemic formula
• Low maintenance
• Great for regrowth
Cons:
• Not lawn safe
• Slightly pricey
• Toxic to trees
12. Resolva Xtra Tough Weedkiller – Best for Garden Borders (UK)
Resolva Xtra Tough Weedkiller is a highly-rated UK garden herbicide formulated with glyphosate for killing deeply rooted weeds like Creeping Charlie. It’s non-selective, ensuring total control over unwanted vegetation. The fast-drying formula works within hours of application.
Its precision trigger spray allows you to apply it only where needed, making it ideal for garden borders and gravel paths. Within 1–2 weeks, the weed dies completely, including underground stolons. For homeowners seeking reliability and safety, this product is approved for domestic garden use across the U.K. and E.U.
Shake well before applying and avoid spraying on windy days for best accuracy.
Pros:
• Trusted UK brand
• Fast-acting
• Deep kill
• Domestic safe
• Precision nozzle
• Long coverage
• Odor-free
Cons:
• Non-selective
• Limited bottle size
• Reapplication in heavy rain
13. Triclopyr 4 Brush Killer – Best Systemic Herbicide for Creeping Vines
Triclopyr 4 Brush Killer is an industrial-grade herbicide containing 61.6% Triclopyr, known for superior control over tough weeds like Creeping Charlie. It’s widely used in the U.S. by professionals in forestry, agriculture, and pasture management. Its systemic mode of action ensures root-to-tip destruction.
It’s suitable for both spot treatment and large-scale spraying when mixed correctly. The product kills vines, ivy, and other creeping broadleaf weeds effectively within two weeks. Lawn enthusiasts favor it for its durability and root re-entry prevention.
Because of its potency, proper protective equipment is mandatory during application.
Pros:
• Highly concentrated
• Root-level kill
• Long-term effect
• Controls vines
• Mixes easily
• Professional use
• Excellent coverage
Cons:
• Strong odor
• Not for lawns
• Requires PPE
14. Weedol Rootkill Plus – Best Non-Selective Herbicide for Driveways
Weedol Rootkill Plus, formerly Pathclear, is a popular U.K. herbicide known for complete eradication of Creeping Charlie and other perennial weeds. It’s a non-selective systemic herbicide that targets the entire plant, including underground rhizomes. Its built-in trigger spray makes it simple and convenient for home use.
The product becomes rainproof in just 10 minutes, offering excellent resilience in unpredictable British weather. It’s suitable for paths, patios, and garden beds where weeds frequently emerge. Regular use once or twice a year keeps the area weed-free.
Avoid contact with grass or ornamental plants, as it kills everything it touches.
Pros:
• Easy spray use
• Fast rainproof
• Total kill
• Great coverage
• Long shelf life
• Effective in damp areas
• Visible results fast
Cons:
• Kills grass
• Not selective
• May require repeat
15. Bonide Weed Beater Ultra – Best Cool-Weather Herbicide
Bonide Weed Beater Ultra is uniquely formulated to perform in cool weather conditions, which is ideal for regions where Creeping Charlie thrives in spring and fall. It’s a selective herbicide that kills broadleaf weeds while sparing grass. The product’s systemic action moves through the plant for full control.
Unlike many other brands, it delivers results even when temperatures are as low as 45°F (7°C). It’s suitable for residential lawns, parks, and ornamental turf. Visible results typically appear within 24 hours, and it’s rainproof after 3 hours.
It’s pet-safe once dried, making it an excellent family-friendly option.
Pros:
• Works in cold
• Fast visible results
• Lawn safe
• Systemic control
• Pet-friendly
• Trusted brand
• Easy to apply
Cons:
• Short shelf life
• Moderate coverage
• Mild odor
16. Roundup Ready-To-Use Extended Control – Best for Long-Term Prevention
Roundup Ready-To-Use Extended Control offers both immediate killing power and preventive action for up to 4 months. It’s perfect for homeowners dealing with recurring Creeping Charlie in patios, sidewalks, and garden beds. The dual formula includes glyphosate for killing and imidazolinone for preventing regrowth.
The comfort wand ensures precision application with minimal waste. This product is ready to use straight out of the container, making it user-friendly for quick touch-ups. It’s an ideal all-in-one solution for long-term maintenance.
Use cautiously around grass or ornamental plants, as it is non-selective.
Pros:
• Long-term prevention
• Ready to use
• Dual formula
• Ergonomic wand
• Fast drying
• Covers large areas
• Reliable brand
Cons:
• Non-selective
• Higher cost
• Can stain stone
17. Southern Ag Crossbow II – Best for Rural and Acreage Use
Southern Ag Crossbow II is an upgraded version of the classic Crossbow, designed for rural pastures and open fields. It combines Triclopyr and 2,4-D for deep-rooted Creeping Charlie control. Its dual-action ensures no regrowth even after heavy infestations.
This product is ideal for large property owners, farms, and unmaintained lawn edges. It’s systemic, long-lasting, and highly effective against vines and woody weeds. With proper dilution, it provides months of control with minimal reapplication.
Apply in warm, dry weather for best results and use caution near water bodies.
Pros:
• Large area coverage
• Systemic formula
• Long-lasting control
• Dual herbicide blend
• Great for pastures
• Rainfast quickly
• Reliable brand
Cons:
• Requires mixing
• Non-selective
• Strong odor
18. Avenger Organic Weed Killer – Best Eco-Friendly Non-Toxic Option
Avenger Organic Weed Killer is a natural citrus oil-based formula that kills Creeping Charlie through desiccation. It’s biodegradable, non-toxic, and OMRI-listed, making it perfect for eco-conscious homeowners. This organic weed killer acts fast, showing results in as little as 2 hours.
It’s ideal for patios, pathways, flower beds, and around trees. Although non-selective, it’s safe to use around pets and children once dry. Its citrus scent leaves no harsh chemical odor behind.
For best performance, apply during sunny, warm days when weeds are actively growing.
Pros:
• Organic formula
• Pet safe
• Fast results
• Biodegradable
• Pleasant scent
• Eco-certified
• Easy application
Cons:
• Non-selective
• Short duration
• May need repeat
19. Weedol Lawn Weedkiller Concentrate – Best for UK Lawns
Weedol Lawn Weedkiller Concentrate is specifically designed for lawns plagued by Creeping Charlie and other broadleaf weeds. It’s selective, meaning it kills weeds without harming grass. The formula includes MCPA and Dicamba, providing powerful systemic action.
It’s safe for all major lawn types in the U.K., including ryegrass and fescue. Visible results appear in one week, with complete eradication in about three weeks. This makes it a perfect seasonal treatment for spring and summer maintenance.
Mix as directed and apply evenly using a sprayer for best coverage.
Pros:
• Lawn safe
• Reliable UK brand
• Systemic kill
• Long-lasting results
• Works in cool weather
• Easy to mix
• Cost-effective
Cons:
• Concentrate only
• Mild odor
• Not organic
20. Earth’s Ally Weed & Grass Killer – Best Eco-Safe U.S. Option
Earth’s Ally Weed & Grass Killer uses salt, vinegar, and soap-based technology to eliminate Creeping Charlie without synthetic chemicals. It’s non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for use around people, pets, and pollinators. This natural formula dehydrates weeds within hours.
Perfect for home gardeners and eco-friendly users, it’s effective on hard surfaces and borders. Though non-selective, it provides fast and visible results. It’s also registered for organic gardening under OMRI certification.
Apply during sunny conditions for optimal performance.
Pros:
• Organic certified
• Safe for pets
• Fast action
• Biodegradable
• No harsh smell
• Kid-friendly
• Eco-friendly
Cons:
• Non-selective
• Short-term results
• May need multiple sprays
Weed Killer That Will Kill Creeping Charlie (FAQs)
1. What is the best time to kill Creeping Charlie?
The best time to apply weed killers is in late fall or early spring, when Creeping Charlie is actively storing nutrients in its roots. This ensures systemic herbicides penetrate effectively for long-term control.
2. Are selective herbicides safe for my lawn?
Yes, selective herbicides like Ortho Weed B Gon and Weedol Lawn Weedkiller target only broadleaf weeds, sparing grasses. Always follow label directions for lawn compatibility.
3. Can I use vinegar to kill Creeping Charlie?
Yes, but only temporarily. Natural solutions like Earth’s Ally or Avenger Organic work well for small patches but may not prevent regrowth from roots.
4. How many applications are needed to kill Creeping Charlie?
Most systemic herbicides require one to two applications. For severe infestations, reapply after 3–4 weeks to ensure total root elimination.
5. Are these herbicides safe for pets and children?
Eco-friendly products like Avenger Organic and Earth’s Ally are pet-safe once dry. Always keep pets off treated areas until the surface is fully dry.
6. Can I reseed after using weed killer?
Yes, after 2–4 weeks depending on the product. Check the label for reseeding intervals, as some herbicides may inhibit new seed growth temporarily.
7. What’s the difference between selective and non-selective herbicides?
Selective herbicides kill weeds without harming grass, while non-selective ones kill all plants they contact. Choose based on whether you’re treating a lawn or a non-grassy area.
Conclusion
Creeping Charlie can be one of the toughest invaders in any yard, but with the right herbicide strategy, it’s entirely manageable. From selective options like Ortho Weed B Gon and BioAdvanced Weed & Feed, to industrial solutions like Crossbow and Roundup UltraMax, and eco-friendly alternatives like Earth’s Ally, there’s a solution for every lawn type and homeowner preference.
Always follow label instructions, apply during calm, dry weather, and target weeds at their most vulnerable growth stages for the best results. For larger infestations, a combination of chemical control and cultural lawn care (like aeration and mowing) ensures lasting success.
Don’t let Creeping Charlie take over your lawn — take action today with one of these trusted herbicides.
Reclaim your yard, restore your grass, and enjoy a clean, green lawn year-round.