Ground ivy, also known as creeping Charlie, can be stubborn in lawns and garden beds. The right weed killer targets this invasive weed while minimizing damage to desirable plants. Below is a curated selection of popular products that are effective against ground ivy and other tough weeds. This guide highlights active strengths, how quickly you might see results, and practical application tips to help you choose the best option for your space.
| Product | Brand | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Ortho GroundClear Poison Ivy & Tough Brush Killer3 | Ortho | Fast-acting, systemic, kills to the root |
| Roundup Poison Ivy Plus Tough Brush Killer₂ | Roundup | Rainproof quickly, visible results hours after use |
| BioAdvanced Brush Killer Plus | BioAdvanced | Kills poison ivy/oak and many weeds with a penetrating concentrate |
| Roundup Weed and Grass Killer₄ | Roundup | Kills weeds to the root, broad compatibility with areas |
| Ortho GroundClear Year Long Vegetation Killer2 | Ortho | Prevents regrowth for up to 12 months |
Note: Each product has a unique formulation and usage instructions. Review the label for application rates, safety guidelines, and any restrictions for your landscape. The following sections summarize five relevant options and how they perform against ground ivy and other common weeds.
Ortho GroundClear Poison Ivy & Tough Brush Killer3
Product overview: Ortho GroundClear Poison Ivy & Tough Brush Killer3 is a ready-to-use spray designed to combat over 60 listed weeds and brush, including poison ivy and poison oak. The fast-acting formula begins producing visible results in as little as 1 hour, making it a strong option for immediate control. Its systemic action means the product travels into the plant and kills it down to the roots, reducing the chance of rapid resprouting. For larger areas or persistent patches of ground ivy, this product provides a straightforward, one-and-done application capability with effective coverage.
Why it may work for ground ivy: Ground ivy often regrows from root fragments; a systemic formula that travels through the plant can significantly reduce re-emergence. The included comfort wand helps with precision on uneven terrain where ground ivy commonly thrives. For best results, ensure targeted spray coverage on actively growing foliage and avoid windy conditions to minimize drift to desirable grasses. It is suitable for landscapes and beds where immediate suppression of tough weeds is desired.
Usage considerations: Read the label for surface area coverage, days to wait before irrigation, and safety guidance. The product is ready to use without mixing, which can simplify applications for homeowners dealing with stubborn ground ivy patches. As with all herbicides, wear protective clothing and keep kids and pets away until the treated area has dried.
Roundup Poison Ivy Plus Tough Brush Killer₂
Product overview: Roundup Poison Ivy Plus Tough Brush Killer₂ is an exclusive formulation that targets poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, wild blackberry, kudzu, and other tough weeds. A notable feature is its rainproof performance in as fast as 30 minutes, with visible results in hours. Users can plant in the treated area after a waiting period ranging from 1 to 30 days, depending on the plant and site conditions. This makes it suitable for lawns, gardens, and landscape beds where quick re-stabilization of soil is desired after weed suppression.
Why it may work for ground ivy: If ground ivy coexists with other tough species, Roundup’s broad-spectrum activity can simplify weed management by addressing multiple targets in a single treatment. The product’s rapid weather resistance and quick visual feedback can help homeowners verify effectiveness sooner, aiding in scheduling subsequent lawn care tasks like reseeding or fertilization.
Usage considerations: Follow label directions for application timing, weather conditions, and buffer zones near desirable plants. Since results can appear quickly, monitor treated areas for non-target damage and re-treat only as necessary per the label’s guidelines.
BioAdvanced Brush Killer Plus (Concentrate)
Product overview: BioAdvanced Brush Killer Plus is a concentrate weed killer that targets poison ivy, poison oak, blackberry, and more than 75 other weed types when used as directed. Its penetrating formula is designed to kill listed roots and vine weeds, providing a robust option for rooted ground ivy infestations. Visual results typically appear within 1-6 weeks, which is common for concentrates that require adequate uptake through the plant’s vascular system.
Why it may work for ground ivy: Concentrates can offer higher residual activity in the treatment area, helping suppress regrowth over a longer period. This can be beneficial for ground ivy patches that repeatedly spread via runners and root fragments. For best outcomes, mix according to label instructions, apply to actively growing weeds, and avoid watering for the recommended period after treatment.
Usage considerations: Use appropriate protective gear when handling concentrates, and apply during favorable weather to optimize absorption. As ground ivy is often found at the edge of lawns and beds, consider spot-treating infestations to minimize impact on desirable turf.
Roundup Weed and Grass Killer₄
Product overview: Roundup Weed and Grass Killer₄ targets both weeds and grasses with a single application, effectively killing them to the root. It is rainproof within 30 minutes and shows visible results within hours. The product allows planting in the treated area after 1 to 30 days, depending on the site’s conditions and the specific weed pressure. This makes it a flexible option for areas where lawn maintenance and garden aesthetics need quick maintenance cycles.
Why it may work for ground ivy: Ground ivy often coexists with grasses where border edges and walkways meet turf. A product that won’t discriminate between broadleaf weeds and grass can simplify management in mixed areas, allowing targeted re-sodding or reseeding after weed control when appropriate per the label.
Usage considerations: Apply with attention to wind direction and drift, especially near gardens or ornamentals. Read the label to determine suitable surfaces, avoid spraying desirable lawns unless the product is specifically approved for use on them, and observe the recommended reentry times after application.
Ortho GroundClear Year Long Vegetation Killer2
Product overview: Ortho GroundClear Year Long Vegetation Killer2 is a concentrate designed to kill and prevent weed growth for up to 12 months in areas where no plant growth is desired. It is suitable for driveways, sidewalks, fence lines, paver patios, walkways, gravel areas, and parking zones where bare ground is acceptable. The product starts working immediately when applied as directed and kills weeds to the root, providing a long-lasting solution for high-traffic or unplanted zones.
Why it may work for ground ivy: For persistent ground ivy infestations near hardscape edges, a year-long vegetation killer can minimize new growth while you plan re-sodding or landscaping changes. It helps prevent re-infestation in zones where ground ivy tends to creep into cracks and seams. As with other concentrates, follow mixing instructions precisely and apply under suitable weather to maximize efficacy.
Usage considerations: Use in non-plant zones or areas where vegetation control is desired for an extended period. Wear protective gear and avoid runoff into planted beds. Reassess after the prescribed period and reapply only if necessary and permitted by the label.
Bonide Poison Oak & Ivy Killer
Product overview: Bonide Poison Oak & Ivy Killer is a ready-to-use spray designed for home gardening. The fast-acting formula claims to begin killing plants down to the root and is described as rain-proof within 6 hours of application. It is marketed for controlling poison ivy, poison oak, and a variety of broadleaf weeds without harming most lawn grasses when used as directed. This makes it a practical option for targeted areas where ground ivy and related ivy species are a concern.
Why it may work for ground ivy: The ready-to-use format supports straightforward spot-treatments in lawns or along borders where ivy-like ground ivy spreads. The product’s root-level action can be beneficial in stopping regrowth from creeping runners, provided the application is thorough and repeated as necessary per the label.
Usage considerations: Always follow safety guidelines, particularly when applying outdoors near children or pets. Check compatibility with surrounding plants and avoid over-application in dense plantings where desirable species could be affected.
RM43 Concentrated Extended Control Weed Killer
Product overview: RM43 is a concentrated weed killer designed for extended control with water, suitable for mixing in a sprayer. The product emphasizes “serious weed control” with up to one year of control in some applications. It is positioned for homeowners who want a longer window of weed suppression and are comfortable with a dilution process that supports larger treatment areas or repeated applications over multiple seasons.
Why it may work for ground ivy: By blending a robust concentrate, RM43 can deliver sustained suppression of ground ivy, which often regrows from roots and runners. It’s especially useful for large invadable patches or areas where repeated weed pressure is common. Proper mixing and adherence to label directions are essential to achieving consistent results.
Usage considerations: Prepare the concentrate according to the product label, apply to active growth periods, and protect non-target vegetation. Because this is a concentrate, ensure accurate measurement and cleaning of equipment to prevent residue transfer in other garden areas.
Ortho GroundClear Weed and Grass Killer with Comfort Wand
Product overview: Ortho GroundClear Weed and Grass Killer with Comfort Wand targets weeds and grasses in patios, driveways, and landscape beds. It is OMRI listed for certain applications and claims a fast action, with results in as little as 15 minutes after spraying. The product is designed for use around walkways, driveways, and under trees, and it detaches from turf grass use, being unsuitable for use on lawns you plan to keep.
Why it may work for ground ivy: Ground ivy at the edge of hardscape areas often invades cracks and crevices. This product’s fast action and targeted spray capabilities help manage those patches efficiently. Quick rain resistance after drying also supports effectiveness in variable weather conditions.
Usage considerations: Follow the label for safe use around trees and ornamentals, and avoid spraying on desirable lawn areas if not approved. Ensure adequate dry time before exposure to pets and children.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Ground Ivy Control
- Weed type and spectrum: Identify whether you mainly need to control ground ivy or a broader list of weeds. Some products are selective, while others offer broad-spectrum control.
- Form and application: Sprays (ready-to-use or concentrates) require different handling. Ready-to-use products are simpler for spot-treatments, while concentrates cover larger areas but require mixing and equipment.
- Root and systemic action: For creeping ground ivy, systemic formulations that travel to the root reduce regrowth from runners and roots.
- Speed of results: If you need quick suppression, look for products advertising visible results within hours or 1 hour. Some products show results in 1–6 weeks, depending on residence time and uptake.
- Weather and reentry: Consider rainfast times, drying times, and reentry intervals after application to protect pets and family.
- Safety and environment: Verify OMRI listing for organic-friendly options, and adhere to label safety guidelines for handling, wear protection, and storage.
- Surface compatibility: Some products are designed for driveways, walkways, border beds, or ornamental plantings. Avoid applying to turf grass or edible gardens unless explicitly approved by the label.
- Long-term control: If you want ongoing suppression, consider products that offer residual or year-long prevention, and plan a follow-up plan for re-treatment if needed.
- Cost and coverage: Compare coverage per bottle or per gallon and estimated area to treat to determine the best value for your space.
- Environmental impact: Choose products with lower drift risk and follow buffer zones to protect nearby plants, waterways, and wildlife.
When choosing a weed killer for ground ivy, align the product type with your lawn or garden layout, target weeds, and how quickly you want to see results. For stubborn ground ivy patches near hardscape, a combination approach—spot treatments with a fast-acting product followed by a selective long-term solution—can be effective. Always follow the label and local regulations for safe and compliant use.