How to Kill Creeping Charlie Vine

Overview

Creeping Charlie vine (Glechoma hederacea), also called ground ivy, is a perennial vine from the mint family that spreads slowly but steadily in moist soil. The vine spreads through rhizomes, seeds and creeping stems that root as they go. If left alone, in time the vine overtakes grass and any other plants in the area. A combination of mechanical, manual and chemical means, applied at the right time, will help kill off this plant.

Step 1

Alter the conditions around the ivy to make removal easier. Ground ivy thrives in moist, shady conditions. If possible, refrain from watering around the ivy and prune trees to allow more sun to the area.

Step 2

Put on a pair of gloves and pull up small infestations and any garden infestations. Make sure you you pull out the entire plant, placing all parts in a disposable bag. Even a small piece of creeping Charlie root can grow a new plant. Do not compost the ivy plants, but throw them away, as they may start a new infestation of ground ivy if left on a compost pile.

Step 3

Apply an herbicide containing dicamba or triclopyr to the remaining ivy in mid to late autumn after the first frost. Follow the directions on the package to avoid injuring other plants in the area. Choose a day with little wind and no rain predicted for the next day. Refrain from mowing your lawn a few days before and after application.

Step 4

Apply a second dose of herbicide in the spring when the plants are in bloom if they return. Again, follow the directions on the package. It may take a few applications of the herbicide to eradicate the ground ivy completely.