How to Kill Dandelion Cane

Dandelions can take over your lawn.

Dandelions are a hardy perennial weed found in lawns and garden beds all over the United States. They have a deep root system and airborne seeds that disperse widely, making them difficult to control. The roots will grow new dandelions year after year unless they are totally removed. Chemical control of dandelion canes isn't totally effective either and kills all the surrounding grass or plants near the dandelions so it isn't recommended.

Things You'll Need

• Vinegar
• Gloves
• Mulch
• Hand rake
• Spray bottle

Instructions

1. Dig out all the dandelions in your yard with a hand rake, removing all of the roots, before they go to seed. Dig up all new dandelions when you see them.

2. Put vinegar into a spray bottle and spray the dandelion foliage with it. The dandelions will die back in a day or two.

3. Mulch over the dandelions if they are in a garden bed. Apply a 2- to 3-inch layer of thick mulch, organic or not, over the top of the dandelions. If the dandelions can't get any sun they will die back.

References

• UC Davis: Dandelion Management Guidelines
• Plantea; Seven ways to get rid of dandelions ...Organically!; Marion Owen