Creeping Charlie (ground ivy) is a fast-spreading perennial broadleaf weed that aggressively invades walkways, patios, and lawn borders. It forms dense mats that choke out turfgrass and ornamental plants, making early and effective control extremely important.
This weed thrives in moist, shaded environments and spreads through creeping stems that root at each node. Because of this aggressive growth pattern, simple contact herbicides often fail to eliminate creeping Charlie completely.
Systemic herbicides that penetrate foliage and move to the root system provide the most reliable long-term results. Selecting the right herbicide ensures effective weed elimination while protecting surrounding landscape plants and turf.
In this guide, we share the best herbicides for creeping Charlie along walkways, including professional-grade solutions, easy-to-use sprays, and long-term control products.
Top 10 Best Herbicide For Creeping Charlie Along Walkways
1. Ortho Weed B Gon Chickweed Clover & Oxalis Killer Concentrate – Best Overall
This systemic herbicide effectively kills creeping Charlie along with other broadleaf weeds by penetrating leaves and destroying root systems. The concentrate formula allows flexible coverage for walkways and lawn edges.
It works safely on most turf grasses when used correctly. Users frequently report visible weed decline within days of application.
The concentrate design makes it economical for repeated seasonal applications. It is ideal for homeowners seeking long-term weed control.
2. Ortho Weed B Gon Ready-To-Spray – Best Hose-End Spray
This ready-to-use spray connects directly to a garden hose for quick application along walkways and lawn edges. It kills creeping Charlie down to the roots while reducing preparation time.
The formula becomes rainproof after several hours, allowing reliable performance in unpredictable weather. It is extremely beginner-friendly.
Its convenient design makes seasonal maintenance simple. Homeowners can quickly treat multiple walkway areas.
3. Bonide Weed Beater Ultra Concentrate – Best Fast Acting Control
This powerful concentrate targets over 200 broadleaf weeds including creeping Charlie. It penetrates foliage rapidly and delivers strong root-killing action.
It is highly effective for heavy infestations around walkways and paved surfaces. The concentrate allows wide area treatment with minimal product usage.
Repeat applications improve long-term suppression. It is trusted by experienced gardeners managing stubborn weed problems.
4. Hi-Yield Triclopyr Ester Herbicide – Best Professional Strength
This triclopyr-based herbicide provides deep systemic control for aggressive perennial weeds. It effectively targets creeping Charlie and woody broadleaf weeds.
The product is ideal for shaded walkway areas where ground ivy commonly spreads. It offers strong translocation into plant root systems.
Professional landscapers often rely on triclopyr for persistent infestations. Proper dilution ensures safe turf application.
5. Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer Concentrate – Best Budget Concentrate
This affordable concentrate controls creeping Charlie, dandelions, and clover. It provides reliable broadleaf control along walkway borders.
The customizable dilution ratio helps reduce product waste. It is compatible with standard tank sprayers.
Many homeowners choose this product for routine lawn maintenance. It delivers visible results within days.
6. Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D Weed Killer – Best Classic Broadleaf Control
This selective herbicide targets creeping Charlie and numerous broadleaf weeds while remaining safe for turf grasses. It is widely used in residential lawn care.
The concentrate offers excellent coverage for large walkway areas. It delivers consistent control when weeds are actively growing.
The proven 2,4-D formula provides reliable and affordable weed suppression. It is a staple product for lawn professionals.
7. Compare-N-Save Lawn Weed Killer Concentrate – Best Large Coverage Option
This concentrated herbicide covers extensive walkway and lawn areas. It effectively eliminates creeping Charlie and other broadleaf weeds.
The product is designed for homeowners managing large properties. Its formula delivers dependable root kill performance.
It offers strong value per gallon treated. Repeat applications increase control reliability.
8. Spectracide Weed Stop For Lawns Ready-To-Use – Best Spot Treatment Spray
This ready-to-use spray provides quick control of creeping Charlie patches along walkways. It requires no mixing and delivers convenient application.
The fast-acting formula begins visible weed damage within hours. It is ideal for small or isolated infestations.
The compact bottle design allows easy storage. It is a reliable maintenance product for homeowners.
9. Roundup For Lawns Concentrate – Best Multi-Weed Lawn Treatment
This selective lawn herbicide targets creeping Charlie while protecting common turfgrass types. It controls multiple weeds simultaneously.
The concentrate allows precision spraying around walkways. It is effective when applied during active weed growth.
The product offers consistent results across different climate conditions. It is popular for seasonal lawn care programs.
10. BioAdvanced Lawn Weed and Crabgrass Killer – Best Dual Action Formula
This dual-action herbicide eliminates both creeping Charlie and grassy weeds. It delivers strong systemic root control.
The ready-to-spray design simplifies walkway edge treatment. It provides extended weed suppression with proper application timing.
Homeowners appreciate its broad-spectrum weed coverage. It works effectively during spring and fall treatment seasons.
Buyer’s Guide – Choosing The Best Herbicide For Creeping Charlie
Systemic Action: Select herbicides that move into root systems to prevent regrowth.
Selective Safety: Choose turf-safe products if walkways border lawns.
Application Method: Ready sprays offer convenience while concentrates provide better coverage value.
Active Ingredients: Triclopyr, 2,4-D, and multi-ingredient formulas provide strong creeping Charlie control.
Best Herbicide For Creeping Charlie Along Walkways Frequently Asked Questions
1. What kills creeping Charlie permanently?
Systemic herbicides containing triclopyr or 2,4-D provide the most reliable long-term control.
2. When should herbicide be applied?
Spring and fall are the best treatment periods when weeds actively grow.
3. Can creeping Charlie grow back?
Yes, incomplete root kill allows regrowth, so repeat applications may be required.
4. Are selective herbicides safe for lawns?
Yes, most are safe when applied according to label instructions.
5. Can I spray near flowers?
Avoid direct contact with ornamentals to prevent plant injury.
6. Does mowing help control creeping Charlie?
Mowing alone does not eliminate the weed but supports herbicide effectiveness.
7. How long does herbicide take to work?
Visible damage usually appears within several days, with full control developing over weeks.
Conclusion
Controlling creeping Charlie along walkways requires selecting herbicides that provide strong systemic root kill and broadleaf weed suppression. Products like Ortho Weed B Gon and Bonide Weed Beater deliver dependable results for homeowners managing persistent infestations.
Proper application timing and repeat treatments significantly improve control success. Combining herbicide use with routine lawn maintenance helps prevent reinfestation.
Selecting one of the recommended herbicides above will help restore clean and weed-free walkway edges. Always follow product label instructions for safe and effective results.