Dandelion Defined

Dandelions are a broadleaf perennial that can grow in any soil and are most numerous in full sunlight. In the early spring, new sprouts will emerge from the taproot, which can be 2 to 3 feet deep in the soil. They grow yellow flowers that mature and turn into white puffballs that contain seeds which spread with the wind to other lawns. Even though they may seem to disappear in the fall, the taproot survives deep in the soil to start the cycle again in the spring. To keep dandelions out of your yard, this root has to be killed.

Kill Dandelions in the Lawn

Even the best cared for lawns will have an occasional dandelion. They are difficult to completely eliminate, and the entire plant (root and all) of the dandelion needs to be removed or they can grow right back.

Prevention and Maintenance

Kill Visible Dandelions

The best way to attack dandelions is to kill the whole plant, taproot and all, and then keep new weeds from establishing themselves in your lawn. Don't hand-pull them, as they will grow right back unless the tap root (often 2-3 feet deep) is completely removed. To take care of your dandelions, apply Ortho Killex Lawn Weed Control ready-To-Use with Wand Applicator following label directions.