How to Kill Broadleaf Plantain

Overview

Broadleaf plantain is a common turf problem, often arising in poorly kept lawns where open patches of soil present prime areas for weed invasions. This vigorously growing weed can quickly ruin your lawn's appearance, and can sometimes appear elsewhere in your garden, such as in flower beds. Take immediate steps to kill broadleaf plantain to eradicate the problem. Early removal is important to prevent the plantain from growing seeds and spreading even further.

Step 1

Remove the broadleaf plantain manually. This is best for solitary patches of plantain, and the only killing method for mature plants. Grab the main stem at the center of the plantain patch and pull upwards. Discard the plants or allow them to dry upside down before throwing them in your compost pile.

Step 2

Treat your lawn with an isoxaben-based, pre-emergent herbicide to stop broadleaf plantain seeds from germinating. Apply in the early spring according to the herbicide's label as soon as the soil's temperature reaches 50 degrees Fahrenheit, which is when broadleaf plaintain seeds start to sprout.

Step 3

Spray broadleaf plaintain seedlings with a lawn herbicide formulated with 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid. This sufficiently controls young broadleaf plaintain plants without harming your lawn.

Step 4

Mist mature broadleaf plantain with a glyphosate-based herbicide if the plantain is not near other vegetation. Cover all exposed surfaces of the plantain. It will die within 14 days.