A weed is a plant out of place! Dandelion sure fits that definition! Dandelion is a perennial herb that forms a rosette in lawns and gardens. Inflorescence composed of yellow ray florets that give rise to a “puffball” head. New plants germinate primarily in the fall (late September). Mid-October and November is the most effective time to control broadleaf weeds, including dandelions in lawns. Dandelion usually produces a flush of new plants in late September. These young plants are small and easily controlled with herbicides such as 2,4-D or combination products (Trimec, Weed-B-Gon, Weed-Out) that contain 2,4-D, MCPP and Dicamba. Even established dandelions are more easily controlled in the fall rather than in the spring because they are actively moving materials from the top portion of the plant to the roots. Herbicides will translocate to the roots as well and will kill the plant from the roots up. Be sure to choose a day that is 50 degrees or higher. The better the weed is growing, the more weed killer will be moved from the leaves to the roots. Cold temperatures will slow or stop this process. Weed Free Zone (also sold under the name of Speed Zone) contains the three active ingredients mentioned above plus carfentrazone. It gives a quicker response than the other products mentioned and will work better when temperatures drop below 50 degrees.
