Ground ivy is a common weed variety in the Southern U.S., including Texas. Many homeowners in The Lone Star State and surrounding area struggle to keep their lawn free of this invasive weed.
Once ground ivy takes hold, it can quickly consume a homeowner’s landscape, turning his or her lawn into a weed-filled mess. If this sounds familiar, consider the following tips to eliminate ground ivy from landscape and prevent it from coming back.
Identify the Ground Ivy
Before you can eliminate ground ivy from your landscape, you must first verify that it is in fact ground ivy. There are several different varieties of ground ivy, but most feature the same basic appearance.
A relative of the mint family, ground ivy blue flowers with green leaves that climb across the ground. When left unchecked, they can grow to heights of 7 feet, engulfing the lawn and all its grass and plants. If you aren’t sure whether it’s ground ivy, collect a sample and take it to a local plant nursery for inspection.
Manual Removal
Like most weeds, you can remove ground ivy from your lawn by pulling it out of the soil. The key thing to remember is that you need to pull up the entire root system. Simply tearing ground ivy at the base isn’t going to work, as the remaining root will simply regrow the ivy.
You must pull out the entire root system to prevent ground ivy from growing up. It’s recommended that you wait until the day after it rains so that the soil will be moist and loose.
Herbicides
Certain herbicides may also prove effective at killing and controlling ground ivy. According to research conducted by Michigan State University (MSU), herbicides with the ingredient quinclorac are particularly effective when used against this otherwise invasive weed.
However, the time of year in which it’s applied will affect its performance. Quinclorac herbicides are most effective against ground ivy when applied during the summer months as opposed to fall or winter.
Feed Your Lawn
Normally, the presence of ground ivy indicates an underlying problem with your landscape. If ground ivy can emerge, it means there’s not enough grass – or enough healthy grass – currently growing in your lawn.
Therefore, you should focus on manicuring and maintaining a healthy landscape. This includes applying fertilizer, watering and de-weeding your lawn on a regular basis.
The Woodsman Company offers tree planting, tree pruning and shrub trimming, tree removal and stump grinding as well as a tree wellness program.
If we can help with any of your tree care needs give us a call at 512-846-2535 or 512-940-0799 or
An ivy is rapidly covering lawn at our new home.. This article was helpful, thanks.