Dandelions killer for lawns
THE 5 BEST Dandelion Killer For 2022 (Best Herbicide For Dandelions That Won't Kill Your Grass) Lawn Phix
You know spring has arrived when you start seeing the yellow flowers of dandelions emerging throughout the neighborhood. This might be a nice sight for some, but for lawn care purists, these undesirable weeds must go.
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The following is our list of best dandelion killers. These are the best options for DIY homeowners, particularly with cool-season grasses, to get rid of dandelions. I have at least two of these herbicides on-hand throughout the year for my own use. They contain the same active ingredients (AI) as those broadleaf weed killers that the pros use, and only require a hand-pump sprayer or backpack sprayer to apply (+ PPE).
These kill broadleaf weeds and grassy weeds but do not harm your good cool-season grasses. I also selected these weed killers not only because they work the best, but they can also be mixed to create a solid 1-2-punch at killing dandelions and other weeds – from crabgrass and dandelions to creeping charlie and clover.
- Speedzone + Tenacity
- Drive XLR8 (Quinclorac) + TZone
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TZone tops our charts as the best dandelion killer. In addition to the active ingredients 2,4-D, Dicamba, and Triclopyr, it contains sulfentrazone for a powerful 4-way weed killer. Sulfentrazone combos provide extremely fast and effective results in killing weeds, and control against many tough broadleaf weeds, including dandelion, clover, nutsedge, and spurge. Mixed with quinclorac (below), makes the perfect weed killer.
Pros:
- Does not require a separate non-ionic surfactant
- Kills dandelions and other tough broadleaf weeds
- Rainfast within 3 hours after the application has dried
Cons:
- Not available for sale in all states – restricted to licensed applicators
TZone mix rates:
- Cool-season grasses: Mix 1. 2 – 1.5 oz. per gallon of water (approx. 1,000 sq. ft. coverage)
- Warm-season grasses: Mix 0.73 – 0.83 oz. per gallon of water (approx. 1,000 sq. ft. coverage)
- A second application can be applied after 21-30 days
- No lawn mowing two days before or 2 days after applying this broadleaf weed killer
Shop for T-Zone on Do My Own, DIY Pest Control, and Amazon.
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Speedzone EW broadleaf weed killer is a wildly popular weed killer and ranks second on our best dandelion killer list with good reason. It is a terrific 4-way selective herbicide that is taken up through leaf tissue and roots. In addition to 2,4-D, Mecoprop-p, and Dicamba, Speedzone also contains carfentrazone for quick visible results on ~100 grassy and broadleaf weeds, making it one of the best dandelion killers. A commonly-used all-around broadleaf weed killer for lawns.
Pros:
- Visible results within hours of application
- Complete weed control in as little as 7 days
Cons:
- Not safe for all warm-season grasses
Speedzone EW mixing rates:
- Mix 1. 1 – 1.8 oz. in up to 5 gallons of water
Also available in smaller 20 oz. bottle with the same AI.
Shop for Speedzone on Do My Own, DIY Pest Control, and Amazon.
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Tenacity Herbicide has Mesotrione as its Active Ingredient (AI). This cutting-edge product can be used as both a selective post-emergent weed killer and pre-emergent herbicide. Tenacity controls over 40 grassy and broadleafs weeds including dandelions. Mesotrione kills weeds by inhibiting photosynthesis in the targeted plants. This mode of action acts like sunblock – stopping weed growth and leaving the plant looking bleached white as they die off.
We like to tank mix this with Speedzone if you need to kill existing weeds, like dandelion, clover, and henbit broadleaf weeds, and grassy weeds like crabgrass.
Pros:
- Only need a small amount per gallon (1/2 teaspoon)
- Can be used as a pre-emergent at the time of seeding or overseeding
Cons:
- Requires a non-ionic surfactant (NIS) adjuvant for best results
Tenacity mix rate:
- 1/2 teaspoon per gallon
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of NIS
Shop for Tenacity on Do My Own, DIY Pest Control, and Amazon.
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Drive XLR8 is an extremely powerful weed killer and another good option for a dandelion killer. The active ingredient (AI) in Drive XLR8 weed killer is quinclorac – which is arguably the best crabgrass killer. However, it is also labeled for broadleaf weeds including dandelions and other weeds. So if you have this on-hand for crabgrass, apply with confidence as a dandelion killer, too.
It’s our No. 1 best crabgrass killer and can also be tank-mixed with TZone (above) for the ultimate herbicide combo for killing weeds.
Pros:
- Provides faster and more effective weed control than generic quinclorac
- Is rainfast in an hour after the application has dried
Cons:
- Works best when mixed with a methylated seed oil (MSO)
- Cannot be used on: St. Augustine, Centipede, Bahiagrass, Bentgrass or Dichondra
Drive XLR8 mix rates:
- 1. 45 fl oz per gallon of water (per 1,000 sq. ft.)
- Mix 0.55 oz. of MSO to increase the effectiveness
Shop for Drive XLR8 on Do My Own, DIY Pest Control, and Amazon.
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Ortho Weed B Gon made our list for its convenience. The ready-to-use (RTU) concentration has a hose-end sprayer already included. So you simply attach a garden hose to the bottle, turn the water and dial to ON, and spray. A great multipurpose weed killer that is often found at local hardware and big box stores.
Pros:
- One quart (32 oz.) treats 8,000 – 16,000 total sq ft
- Labeled for over 250 weeds
- Contains 2,4-D, Dicamba, and MCPP-P
Cons:
- Dragging the garden hose around can be an inconvenience
Shop for Weed B Gon on Do My Own and Amazon.
Weed Killer Application
As a general rule and best application practices: Do not mow your lawn two days before and two days after weed killer application. The treatment application should be done at a time when there is no rainfall forecast for at least 24 hours
Dandelion Killers
Postemergence broadleaf herbicides include the phenoxy herbicides (2,4-D, 2,4-DP/dichlorprop, MCPA, MCPP/mecoprop), carfentrazone, clopyralid, dicamba, fluroxapyr, quinclorac, penoxsulam, pyraflufen-ethyl, sulfentrazone and triclopyr.
If you use a 4 Step program, Step 2 is the weed and feed that targets dandelions. Scotts Turf Builder Weed And Feed is a great granular weed killer combo option that can kill dandelions. You can also Espoma Organic Weed Preventer.
Dandelion Quick Facts
- A perennial broadleaf weed
- Considered a taller broadleaf weed
- Branches grow from a single taproot
- Leaves and stems contain a milky white fluid
- Flowers are yellow and turn into fluffy white balls
- Spade-shaped leaf tips and point towards the ground
- Seeds mostly spread via the wind
- Found throughout northern and southern lawns
- Kill dandelions before they seed to prevent a secondary crop next year
- Controlled with most selective broadleaf weed herbicides
Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer to your turf. Low nitrogen soils can lead to more dandelion weeds in your lawn due to less competition from desirable turfgrass species. At the first signs of dandelion flowers appearing in your turf, mow frequently to help to reduce further infestations. Dandelion plants can be removed by hand, provided that the entire taproot is also removed.
Don’t be fooled by other sites that recommend corn gluten meal and pre-emergent herbicides to kill dandelions. While pre-emergents can prevent new weed seeds – including dandelion and other broadleaf weeds – they will not control emerged weeds of those or other plants. Since dandelions are annual weeds, only a selective weed killer will control established dandelions and other weeds.
Others may also recommend non-selective weed killers. While these are a surefire dandelion killer, they are also a grass killer of your good turf. So if you’re looking for a dandelion killer and weed killer that won’t warm your established lawn, then those will do you no good.
Dandelion Killer FAQs
What will kill dandelions but not grass?
Most broad-spectrum selective herbicides like TZone will kill dandelions without affecting your good turf. Be sure sure to read the dandelion killer spray labels as they may affect some warm-season grasses.
What kills dandelions permanently?
Selective weed killers like Tenacity, TZone, and Speedzone are great at killing dandelions. These liquid herbicides are better options than weed and feed fertilizers. Once eradicated, be sure to use a pre-emergent in the spring to help prevent and control dandelions.
What do professionals use to kill dandelions?
Pros use selective herbicides that target broadleaf weeds like TZone and Speedzone. The weed killer and dandelion killer will contain a 2-way, 3-way, or 4-way combination of: 2,4-D, carfentrazone, clopyralid, dicamba, fluroxapyr, quinclorac, penoxsulam, pyraflufen-ethyl, sulfentrazone, and triclopyr.
The Best Dandelion Killers of 2022
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Photo: amazon.com
A favorite of children for their delicate seeds that take flight with a soft puff of breath, dandelions are among the challenges many home gardeners face in keeping their lawns lush and green. A single dandelion plant can produce as many as 10,000 seeds that float on the gentlest breeze, so a yard with just a few dandelions can turn quickly into a lawn with hundreds. A practical course of action is to kill the weeds before they can propagate.
In most cases, the best dandelion killer is one that will get rid of the dandelions without harming the surrounding grass. However, if the dandelion infestation is widespread, gardeners may need to kill the entire lawn and start over. Ahead, learn what to look for when shopping for a dandelion killer—the most toxic is not necessarily the best choice—and find out why lawn lovers prize the following herbicides for eradicating dandelion problems.
- BEST OVERALL: Eco Garden Pro Organic Vinegar Weed Killer
- RUNNER-UP: Natural Elements Weed Killer, Pet Safe, Child Safe
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Earth’s Ally Weed & Grass Killer, Pet Safe
- BEST FOR LARGE AREAS: BioSafe Systems 7601-1 Weed & Grass Killer
- BEST PREVENTIVE: Espoma Organic Weed Preventer—25 Pound CGP25
- ALSO CONSIDER: Doctor Kirchner Natural Weed & Grass Killer
Photo: amazon. com
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Dandelion KillerDandelions are categorized as broadleaf weeds because of their wide, flat leaves that spread out along the ground in the shape of a dinner plate. Unlike many weeds with shallow root systems, dandelions develop long tap roots extending as deep as 2 feet or more into the ground, making them virtually impossible to pull out. Successfully getting rid of this invasive weed usually requires applying an herbicide.
IngredientsChemical herbicides have been a point of contention and debate for years, and although they have several advantages, they also have drawbacks.
Alternatively, organic herbicides contain only natural ingredients. They won’t leach toxic chemicals into the environment, and they also typically are less potent than their synthetic chemical cousins. Eco-safe dandelion-killer products may contain one or more of the following ingredients:
- Salt: Very similar to table salt but without iodine.
- Vinegar: May be concentrated to as much as six times stronger than household vinegar.
- Essential oils: Common essential oils include clove, cinnamon, and wintergreen.
- Soaps: Dish soap and natural detergents or fatty soap acids.
- Plant byproducts: Corn gluten or cornstarch containing proteins that stop weed seeds from sprouting.
Some herbicides are “nonselective,” which means they will kill virtually any vegetation they come into contact with. Other herbicides kill only one or a few types of plants and are called selective herbicides because they won’t harm other types of plants.
Weed-and-feed-type products are selective herbicides because they kill broadleaf weeds such as dandelions but won’t harm turfgrass. Selective herbicides work similarly to pulling up a single weed by hand. A nonselective herbicide is more like running a weed whacker.
If an herbicide negatively affects soil health, the product states how much time should elapse before planting in the treated spot, ranging from a few days after treatment to a year or longer. With the exception of one pre-emergent product that prevents dandelion seeds from sprouting in our lineup, the herbicides suggested in this guide are nonselective and should be applied to weeds only.
FormatDandelion-killing products are available in different formats, each suited to specific types of infestations and personal preferences.
- Spray bottle: Among the simplest forms of herbicide for killing dandelions, spray herbicides come in a handy spray bottle for applying directly on the offending weeds.
- Liquid concentrate: For yards with many dandelions, it may be easier and more cost-effective to purchase a concentrated liquid to apply using a pump-type sprayer.
- Powder: Powdered herbicides can be used in two ways: dusting with a duster or dissolving in water and applying with a sprayer.
- Granules: This herbicide requires a broadcast spreader or drop spreader. Depending on the product, the granules may kill existing weeds or prevent new weed seeds from sprouting.
The key to using any type of herbicide safely is to plan ahead and reduce human and animal exposure. Though chemical herbicides present the most risk to humans, pets, and the environment, highly concentrated natural weed killers can irritate skin and kill desirable plants if not applied with care. Gardeners will want to use the following safety tips to help ensure the safe use of the product for the environment and all involved.
- Read and follow label instructions: This can’t be emphasized strongly enough. Though most quality products have instructions for use, the labels on chemical-based herbicides are federally regulated and bear the phrase: “It is a violation of federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling. ”
- Wear eye protection: In most cases, a pair of sunglasses will suffice for eye protection, but if it’s breezy, opt for goggles with side protection.
- Protect skin:Wear long sleeves and long pants to keep the product from contacting bare skin.
- Wait for calm: Winds more than 8 miles per hour are too strong to control herbicide spray.
- Wash afterward: After applying herbicide, wash hands and other exposed skin. Change into clean clothes after application.
- Walk backward: Rather than walking forward over a newly sprayed lawn, which virtually guarantees getting the herbicide on clothing and shoes, walk backward to reduce the risk of contact with the product.
- Stay off: Different products advise users to keep pets, kids, and adults off the lawn until the herbicide no longer poses a health risk, which could be a couple of hours or a few days in the case of toxic herbicides. Natural herbicide products typically pose a risk of skin irritation only while they’re wet. When the solution dries, it’s safe to let the kids and pets out to play.
- Be patient: It’s frustrating to spray dandelions and then see them looking healthy the next day, but many herbicides take a few days to work. Depending on the product, it may take as long as 2 weeks.
Eradicating weeds that mar the look of a lush lawn can feel like a never-ending endeavor, but applying a chemical herbicide that kills the weeds isn’t the only option. In some scenarios, it may be the least desirable option.
Applying an herbicide may not be necessary if good lawn maintenance practices are followed, including regular watering to keep the turfgrass thick and healthy, which helps keep weed seeds from getting a foothold. Mowing before a dandelion flower can go to seed will also help.
With dandelions, it really is a matter of an ounce of prevention being worth a pound of cure. A single bright yellow dandelion one year can result in dozens more next year. Simply picking the bright yellow flower before it has a chance to go to seed is a step toward keeping the lawn dandelion-free.
Also consider that dandelions are early bloomers and are often a primary source of pollen for honey bees early in the summer when other plants are not yet blooming. For that reason, we strongly suggest using a dandelion killer that won’t harm honey bees and other pollinators. Readers will also want to check out our How to DIY Your Own Dandelion Killer (below), which describes how to mix up a batch of dandelion-eradicating natural herbicide in the kitchen that will stop dandelions (and other weeds) in their tracks.
How We Chose the Best Dandelion KillersThe dandelion-killer products we chose are all effective, but they’re not the most toxic on the market. We extensively researched more than three dozen different herbicides when selecting the ones for this lineup. Not only did the products have to be effective, but they also had to be environmentally responsible.
The products are made to apply with a sprayer or a broadcast spreader, and each is easy to use. Some require only one or two applications for long-term weed control.
Be advised, however, that many of these products are nonselective, meaning they will kill any vegetation they come into contact with, so use them prudently. Spray only the offending dandelions, and don’t spray the surrounding lawn or nearby plants. Avoid treating the weeds on a windy day when overspray is likely to get on other plants.
Our Top PicksTo qualify as a top pick, a dandelion killer must effectively eradicate the weed and be relatively simple to use. The following herbicides are all made to control weeds, and each is well suited to various dandelion-killing situations. Although there are more highly potent herbicides on the market, when it comes to dandelions, we feel the following products are highly efficient and among the least toxic options for pets, children, and the environment.
Photo: amazon.com
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To banish dandelions without harsh chemical herbicides, consider Eco Garden Pro Organic Vinegar Weed Killer. This natural dandelion killer features strong vinegar combined with salt to pack a powerful weed-walloping punch. Eco Garden Pro weed killer comes in a 1-gallon ready-to-use liquid.
This is a nonselective herbicide, meaning it will kill virtually all vegetation it touches. Take care to spray only weeds, such as individual dandelions in the yard or weeds and unwanted grass growing between sidewalk joints or pavers. Don’t let overspray get on desirable plants. This natural herbicide starts to work right away, and results often can be seen within 24 hours as the weeds begin to wilt. Eco Garden won’t leach harmful chemicals into the environment.
Product Specs
- Active ingredient: Vinegar
- Selective or nonselective: Nonselective
- Type: Ready-to-use liquid
Pros
- No dilution necessary
- Eco-friendly
- Pet-safe and kid-safe
Cons
- Sprayer not included
Get the Eco Garden Pro dandelion killer on Amazon or Eco Garden Solution USA (four 1-gallon containers).
Photo: amazon.com
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Users won’t have to worry about spraying dangerous chemicals in their yards with the Natural Elements Weed Killer. Like our top pick, this dandelion killer contains sodium chloride (salt) and industrial-strength vinegar that make quick work of killing unwanted weeds. It’s nonselective, though, meaning it will kill weeds along with desirable ornamentals and lawn grass if it inadvertently gets on them.
Natural Elements Weed Killer comes in a 1-gallon jug, and it’s ready to use—no diluting is necessary. It may be used in either a pump sprayer or a trigger-type hand sprayer. The manufacturer suggests spraying an ample amount of the product on the weeds—enough to make them wet. Results should be visible within 24 hours.
Product Specs
- Active ingredient: Vinegar and sodium chloride
- Selective or nonselective: Nonselective
- Type: Ready-to-use liquid
Pros
- Safe for use around pets and children
- No harmful chemicals
- No dilution necessary
- Results visible in less than 24 hours
Cons
- Sprayer not included
Get the Natural Elements dandelion killer on Amazon or Natural Elements.
Photo: amazon.com
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It doesn’t have to cost a fortune to kill unwanted dandelions. Earth’s Ally Weed & Grass Killer contains both vinegar and sea salt in an affordable solution that will kill dandelions and other unwanted weeds. The product is so powerful, results may be seen in as little as 3 hours.
The ready-to-use liquid can be used in a garden-type pump sprayer or a trigger sprayer. This nonselective herbicide will kill lawns and any other desirable plants if it inadvertently gets on them, so take care to spray only on the unwanted weed—and avoid spraying on a windy day. Spray the weed until the foliage is saturated but not dripping. Fortunately, the eco-friendly product is not a threat to honey bees, but it can still irritate bare skin while wet, so users will want to make sure Earth’s Ally is fully dry before letting children and pets out to play.
Product Specs
- Active ingredient: Sodium chloride (salt), vinegar
- Selective or nonselective: Nonselective
- Type: Ready-to-use liquid
Pros
- Won’t harm honey bees
- Safe for use around pets and kids
- Made with natural ingredients
- No measuring or mixing necessary
Cons
- Can kill desirable plants if overspray gets on them
Get Earth’s Ally dandelion killer at Lowe’s.
Photo: amazon.com
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If dandelions are out of control and a large amount must be eradicated, it may be best to kill all the vegetation in the affected area and then replant with lawn grass or such ground cover as clover or lilyturf. In such a case, consider turning to BioSafe Systems weed and grass Killer. Although it will wipe out all the plants it touches, including the lawn, it won’t leave harmful residue behind in the soil.
BioSafe is certified by the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI), a nonprofit organization that reviews and rates the environmental safety of various products. OMRI certification means BioSafe can be used where organic crops are grown. Its active ingredient is ammonium nonanoate, also called ammonium salt, a low-toxicity substance that will not leach into the soil or be absorbed by the roots of other plants.
This is a nonselective product, so avoid applying it on a windy day to reduce the risk of overspray. It comes as a concentrated liquid and can be applied to treat large areas of dandelions and other weeds. Results can be seen in 24 hours or sooner.
Product Specs
- Active ingredient: Ammonium nonanoate
- Selective or nonselective: Nonselective
- Type: Concentrated liquid
Pros
- Safe for use around organic-certified crops
- Kills within 24 hours
- Leaves no residue in the soil
Cons
- Overspray will kill desirable plants
Get the BioSafe Systems dandelion killer on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
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Keep new dandelions from popping up with Espoma weed preventer, which stops dandelion and other weed seeds from sprouting. Espoma is a natural product that doesn’t pose a health risk to pets and humans, and it won’t pollute the environment. Espoma is a pre-emergent, meaning it keeps seedlings from sprouting and growing. It contains 100 percent corn gluten meal with a high-protein concentration that stops seeds from germinating. Use this Espoma product on established lawns to keep blown-in seeds from sprouting.
Espoma comes in granular form and should be applied with a broadcast spreader. Corn gluten also contains nitrogen (a nutrient that makes grass green). The product can be used twice per year, so for best results, apply in early spring and again in midsummer.
Product Specs
- Active ingredient:Corn gluten
- Selective or nonselective: N/A
- Type: Pre-emergent
Pros
- Natural, nontoxic product
- Keeps dandelion seeds from sprouting
- Environmentally friendly
Cons
- Does not kill existing dandelions
- Will keep desirable seeds from sprouting
Get the Espoma dandelion preventer at Amazon, Overstock, or True Value.
Photo: amazon.com
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Sodium chloride (salt) is the main active ingredient in this natural weed killer that also contains food-grade vinegar to kill a variety of weeds, including unwanted dandelions. The product also contains liquid soap, which acts as a surfactant (a sticking agent) to help the solution adhere to the weed’s surface as it dries, increasing its effectiveness.
Spray the ready-to-use solution directly on dandelions to saturate their leaves. Results in the form of wilting may be seen in just a few hours. The product is safe for use in yards where pets and children play, but while the solution is wet, it may cause skin irritation. Avoid spraying during windy conditions to reduce the risk of overspray on desirable grass or other plants.
Product Specs
- Active ingredient: Sodium chloride, vinegar, soap
- Selective or nonselective: Nonselective
- Type: Ready-to-use liquid
Pros
- Eco-friendly formula
- Results can be seen in a few hours
- No mixing or measuring
- Safe for use around kids and pets
Cons
- Overspray will kill desirable plants
Get the Doctor Kirchner dandelion killer on Amazon, Florenmola Marts, or Doctor Kirchner.
Or, DIY Your Own Dandelion KillerBuying a commercial weed-killing product isn’t always necessary. A safe weed killer can be made at home with a few affordable products that are often already on hand in the pantry.
Gardeners can follow this simple recipe to make their own solution. Clearly label and store any leftover in a cool, dark spot, such as a basement or under a sink. It should remain viable for up to 5 years.
Pour 1 cup of white vinegar into a clean plastic bucket or pail. Stir in 1 cup of table salt and 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap. Mix until the salt dissolves. Add in a gallon of water and stir to combine. That’s it! Pour the ready-to-use solution into a trigger spray bottle or a pump sprayer. Apply directly to dandelions and other unwanted weeds, but don’t let overspray get on grass or desirable plants, as it could kill them, too.
Our VerdictAny weed killers featured in this lineup will do a good job of killing dandelions without damaging the environment or creating a toxic risk. Yet we chose the Eco Garden Pro dandelion killer as our Best Overall for its ease of use and industrial-strength vinegar. Our Best Bang for the Buck pick, the Earth’s Ally dandelion killer, is safe for use in yards where pets and children play, and it comes at an attractive price point.
FAQsYou now know that broadleaf herbicides can help keep a lawn free from dandelions, but if you still want more information about whether the products are safe for yards, humans, pets, and the environment, read on. Below are answers to some of the most popular questions about dandelion killers.
Q. Why should I remove dandelions from my lawn?You don’t have to! Dandelions won’t harm the soil, and their deep roots can help prevent erosion on sloped areas. However, a few dandelions this summer can turn into hundreds next summer, detracting from the look of a lush, green lawn. The best way to keep them out of a lawn is to get rid of them when they first appear.
Q. Are dandelion killers safe?It depends on the product. Natural and organic herbicides are safe for the environment but may pose health risks to pets and humans while they’re wet. Chemical herbicides also may pose health risks during application and until the chemicals are absorbed in the soil.
Q. How do I kill dandelions but not the grass in my garden?The best method is to treat only the dandelions with a weed killer and take care not to get the solution on the surrounding grass.
Why Trust Bob VilaBob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.
Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.
4 Ways to Get Rid of Dandelions in the Plot
Dandelion is a cosmopolitan plant that spreads quickly through flying seeds and boldly takes up space in a meadow or garden.
This herbaceous plant is a serious "headache" for summer residents who simply do not have time to deal with the newly appeared yellow flower baskets. The reverse effect is often observed: the more plants are destroyed, the more appear again. nine0003
How to get rid of dandelions so as not to think about tenacious weeds for a couple of seasons?
Content:
- The necessary knowledge about the weed of the plant
- No. 1 Mechanical struggle with dandelions
- Speaking
- Removal with the root
- RECOMMENTS OF
- SOL
- VOLIKSITA
- #3 Killer chemicals or herbicides
- №4 Preventive control measures
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- Dandelions - many-headed Hydra in our gardens. How to kill her and a little more about a lot
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- A little about the benefits of dandelions for humans and pets
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- ✿ DANDELIONS INSTEAD OF CHEMISTRY! Fighting aphids, thrips, spider mites
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Essential knowledge about the weed plant
A pretty, sunny plant is a pernicious weed
Dandelion is a rhizomatous, perennial plant. The ground part is formed by a rosette of lanceolate basal leaves. The strong and long dandelion root goes deep into the soil.
Representative of the family. Astrov is one of the first to appear from under the snow; its seeds germinate faster than other weeds. Bright caps of yellow flowers appear in early spring. During the summer, the weed forms yellow inflorescences several times, followed by a lush cloud of flying seeds. The plant is capable of seeding 2-3 times per season: the seeds ripen quickly. nine0003
Parachute seeds are carried by the wind for 2-2. 5 km and take root in any free place. The plant is unpretentious and populates any territory. They grow equally well in gardens and vegetable gardens, bloom beautifully on lawns or sprout along roadsides. The perennial grows rapidly, increasing the number of peduncles, which leads to its even more active distribution.
This weed is not easy to remove. The rhizome goes into the ground to a depth of 35 cm and it is not an easy task to extract it completely. If even a small section of the root system remains in the soil, the plant will be reborn. It can propagate through seeds and rhizomes. nine0003
If the beds are rich in humus and humus soil, then: Dandelions grow well in acidic, heavy soils where they root well and look great. Fertilizer, top dressing and application of lime mixtures weaken the plant, not giving it a chance for active growth. Seeds spread over long distances and have good germination But do not lose heart. It is not easy to remove the weed, but there are methods of struggle that gardeners actively use: The most effective options for the extermination of a harmful plant are shown in the photo.
Mowing
When the situation gets out of hand, mass removal of dandelion fields is indispensable. This is the simplest method, which does not completely eliminate the harmful plant, since the rhizome remains in the soil and after some time will give new shoots. But this method is actively used, since mowed plants recover gradually, and there is time to rest until the next wave of dandelions. nine0003 The growing point of the weed is slightly above the soil surface. This point should be taken into account when setting up the lawn mower, when using a scythe: you need to mow the weed under the root. If the growth point is preserved, then soon the dandelion will be reborn again. Weeds are removed during the budding period before flowering twice a week. Cutting them during flowering and the formation of flying seeds is ineffective due to the beginning of the period of active reproduction. Even cut flowers actively and abundantly form fluffy "balls" with seeds. nine0003 Root remover removes each individual weed A convenient option that will eradicate the problem is to use a dandelion control device. Use it to dig around the weed and then turn it upside down. There are other options for removal tools, similar to the two-pronged fork and corkscrew. You can also use a spatula, but there is still the possibility of incomplete removal of the roots. nine0003 The fork grip is convenient in the fight against dandelions in the country, when working on beds or lawns, where you need to carefully remove the root of the dandelion, so as not to damage the cultivated plants. After work, a small hole remains, which is easy to fill with earth. On paths or clearings, you can work with a conventional shovel. She has a large grip, so other plants that are located nearby will suffer. The use of a shovel to remove rhizomes in beds is undesirable, as this leads to a violation of garden plantings. nine0003 See also: What can be grown from a bone at home? | TOP-28 Ordinary and unusual plants | (Photo & Video) + Reviews Getting rid of dandelions After thinking about how to get rid of a dandelion in a garden plot, summer residents often choose folk remedies. They are safe, but require a systematic approach, as our weed is an extremely hardy plant that can grow in any conditions. nine0003 Each gardener chooses the best option for his plot. Table salt Table salt helps with young weeds. It is rather problematic to destroy adult dandelions with food seasoning. One tablespoon of table salt is sprinkled on a small plant, being careful not to get on planting vegetables or flowers. Sodium chloride in high concentration causes weed to die and die. nine0066 Vinegar treatment helps to get rid of an annoying plant There are two ways to prepare vinegar for treatment: The solution is poured into a spray bottle and treated from head to toe. For a 100% effect, the weed is dug out of the ground and vinegar is poured into the hole to destroy the remnants of the root system. Watering with boiling water from dandelions Boiling water or boiling fat (+100 C) will help to partially remove dandelions. Boiling solution is poured over the center of the rosette. This procedure is carried out for three days, only then the dandelions will disappear. You can even take a camping gas burner and spot-treat several pockets of weed. A one-time approach will only result in temporary wilting and inhibition of the plant. Fat that sticks to the ground is more effective. Exterminating measures: removing dandelions with herbicides Reliable and effective chemicals have been developed that "know" how to deal with dandelions in the garden. It is important that the herbicide gets on the leaf or stem of the weed. This is enough for the poison to penetrate the cells of the plant and gradually spread inside it. First, the ground part dies, and then the plant poison reaches the root system. nine0003 How the herbicide works: Poison remains in dead dandelions, so they must be removed from the ground and removed from the site so as not to poison other plantings. As the most effective drugs, the chemical industry offers herbicides of universal or continuous action (pre-emergence): Agrokiller, Tornado, Roundup, Lontrel and others. They need to be applied manually, using a brush, to individual specimens of dandelions. This is important if there are plantings of strawberries, tomatoes or other cultivated plants nearby, otherwise toxic substances will destroy everything around. nine0003 Herbicides are also used against dandelions It is better to use selective herbicides: Longan, Tatrel-300, Clippard, Killex, Metafen. Lintur works well on grassy lawns. The sniper has a directional action, destroying weeds in flower beds and lawns. They operate in the temperature range - + 5- + 25C, destroying only weeds. Herbicides can be used in orchards with fruit trees and shrubs. nine0066 Do not forget that poisons affect beneficial microflora, bees, insects living in gardens. The chemicals remain in the soil, polluting it. Corn gluten is used as an organic herbicide against dandelions. This is a natural gluten product that is left over from corn processing. It prevents the growth of seeds and fragile seedlings of dandelions, so gluten flouring is carried out 4-6 weeks before germination. The effect of its action lasts 4-6 weeks, after which the procedure is repeated. nine0066 The powder is used throughout the growing season. It will not help to get rid of adult weeds. A cosmopolitan plant is unpretentious in terms of growth Do not wait for the destruction of a weed plant during one-time events. No matter how well the area is weeded, dandelions will reappear after a while. The problem should be approached seriously and comprehensively. nine0003 Only regular treatment and prevention will bring the desired result and answer the question: how to get rid of dandelions in the area forever. Among the preventive measures: Application of the film on the beds Every plant needs light to grow. Dandelion also belongs to light-loving crops. Its sunny flowers stretch towards the sun, creating bright meadows. If one or more plants are carefully covered with dark plastic bags or film, the plant will die in a few days. nine0066 Solid benefit without harm to the environment. If the entire area is covered with dandelions, then mowing is carried out at first, and then complex measures are taken to combat the annoying weed. Dandelions appear on garden plots with enviable regularity. The use of a number of means helps to get rid of the "weed invader" for a year, a maximum of a couple of years. Then the familiar yellow flowers will appear on the plot again, because parachute seeds fly well and take root where necessary. And the plant is hardy and does not care about bad climatic conditions. No wonder they say that a gardener's work never ends. How to permanently get rid of dandelions on a plot or lawn? Do not forget that dandelion is a medicinal plant There are also biological devices for removing dandelions. For example, healthy weed dishes, which are lovers. Lettuce is used as food, but first the weed has to be treated for bitterness. The same can be said about jam. There are numerous folk recipes for various ailments: it is not for nothing that the species name of dandelion is medicinal. nine0066 Herbal fertilizer is prepared from a weed. It is a folk remedy for pest control: How to permanently get rid of dandelions on a plot or lawn? And for chickens and rabbits, golden-headed weed is a delicious treat. They happily eat a harmful plant. If pets are released into a clearing with bright baskets of yellow flowers, then you can say goodbye to the weed for a long time or forever. But with the point settlement of dandelions in the area, they will have to be weeded out manually, and only then fed to the living creatures. From year to year in spring, beautiful bright yellow flowers - dandelions adorn the land. Of these, they like to weave wreaths and add to various flower arrangements. But gardeners are waiting for this time with horror in their eyes, because in fact a dandelion is a weed with a long powerful root (25 cm) that penetrates deep into the soil. nine0003 It is quite difficult to clean the lawn from dandelions in the backyard because of the fragility of the roots. It is impossible to protect yourself from such a misfortune, since the seeds of a field plant can fly from anywhere (from a neighboring plot, field, roadside). Dandelion grows quickly and imperceptibly, distorting the patterns on the lawn. Regular mowing will cut only the flower heads, but the stem will still differ from the structure of the lawn grass. There are many ways to get rid of dandelion : dig, burn with acid or use pesticides. Let's consider each of them. 1. If you wake up in the morning and see up to ten dandelions, do not waste time, take a shovel in your hands and go dig them up. Before this, water the ground well around the flower and try to dig out the whole root, because. from the rest of the root, over time, a new plant will grow again. 2. You can get rid of dandelions by burning the plants from the inside. Take vinegar (5%), pour it into the middle of the inflorescence, and after a day, dig out the already “dead” plant. This procedure must be done in dry weather so that acetic acid with moisture does not spread to other plants, this will lead to their death too. Vinegar can be replaced with boiling water. But in this case, you will have to burn the dandelion several times until the entire root dies. Boiling water can also survive any other weed, of course, if these are isolated cases (wheatgrass on the lawn is also a common occurrence). nine0003 Vinegar or boiling water is also poured over the place where the dandelion is dug up, just in case, so to speak. 3. Of the chemicals used against dandelions, Roundup (the killer of everything green) and Lontrel are used. Act exactly according to the instructions, applying the herbicide with a brush to the middle of the flower. The next day, the beautiful but harmful weeds will burn and need only be dug up. Make sure that chemicals do not get on the skin and other plants. Wear gloves. After treatment, lawn grass is not mowed for a week. After digging up dandelions, do not clean the lawn with a rake for 2 days, since these days the drug still retains its activity and can burn ornamental plants, forming bald spots. Keep pets out of the treated area at the same time. The procedure may need to be repeated. Root removal
№2 Folk remedies on guard order
Salt
Vinegar
Watering with boiling water
№4 Preventive control measures
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