Problem Info

A low-growing, creeping weed with rounded, scalloped leaves grows in shady areas of the lawn. The nickel- to quarter-sized leaves grow at the end of a long leafstalk. Light-blue to purple flowers, 1/2 to 3/4 inch long, bloom from April to July. Ground ivy was originally planted in some areas as a groundcover, but has now become a major weed in the North. It forms a dense mat throughout the lawn, crowding out grasses. Although it is found primarily in shaded areas, ground ivy also survives in sunlight.

Solution Advice

Hand-pulling is not a good way to control ground ivy because the roots readily resprout into new plants. Ground ivy may indicate that the area is too shady for a lawn to grow.

Product Recommendations

• Ortho® Weed-B-Gon® Chickweed, Clover and Oxalis Killer
• Ortho® Weed-B-Gon Weed Killer for Southern Lawns Ready-to-Use
• Ortho® Weed-B-Gon Weed Killer for Southern Lawns Ready-to-Spray
• Ortho® Weed-B-Gon Weed Killer for Southern Lawns Concentrate