Michigan Gardener

SIGN UP to stay in touch!
We will send you occasional e-mails with gardening tips and information!


Digital Editions

Click on the cover to read now!

  • Home
  • Departments
    • Ask MG
    • Books
    • Clippings
    • Garden Snapshots
    • MG in the News
    • Janet’s Journal
    • Plant Focus
    • Profile
    • Raising Roses
    • Thyme for Herbs
    • Tools and Techniques
    • Tree Tips
  • Garden Event Calendar
  • Resources
    • Alternatives to Impatiens
    • Garden Help
    • Soil and Mulch Calculator
    • Public Gardens
  • Web Extras
  • About
    • About Us
    • Editorial Content
    • Privacy Policy
    • Contact Us
Home Ask MG How do I get rid of ground ivy?

PLEASE NOTE: In the autumn of 1995, we hatched the idea for a free, local gardening publication. The following spring, we published the first issue of Michigan Gardener magazine. Advertisers, readers, and distribution sites embraced our vision. Thus began an exciting journey of helping our local gardening community grow and prosper.
After 27 years, nearly 200 issues published, and millions of copies printed, we have decided it is time to end the publication of our Print Magazine and E-Newsletter.

How do I get rid of ground ivy?

May 24, 2011   •   

What do I use to rid my yard of ground ivy and when do I apply it?

Ground ivy is a very invasive, perennial weed that is sometimes difficult to control. One of the most effective ways to rid your lawn of ground ivy is with the use of a Trimec-based herbicide. On an established lawn, the best time to apply Trimec is when the ground ivy is actively growing. For best results, apply it in the spring, when the weed is at an immature state. On a newly seeded lawn, you must wait until the lawn has been cut at least twice with a lawn mower before applying any herbicides, as damage may occur.

Trimec can be applied either in liquid or granular form. It is recommended that you avoid rain or water for at least 24 hours after application. This will allow the herbicide time to take effect. Because ground ivy is so invasive, repeat applications, according to label instructions, may be necessary. Once you have your ground ivy under control, maintaining a healthy, well-fertilized lawn will help eliminate the possibility of the problem returning.

Filed Under: Ask MG

Previous Post: How do I keep bees away from my garden?
Next Post: When and why should I cut back my chrysanthemums?

Copyright 1996-2025 Michigan Gardener. All rights reserved.