While dandelions brighten spring gardens with their cheerful blooms, not every gardener wants them around for good. The persistent spread of dandelions — those sunny yellow weeds that invade lawns and beds — can leave homeowners eager for long-term removal strategies.
Dandelions are known for the bright yellow flowers but also the puffs of white seeds that can easily spread in a breeze or when knocked over. They appear in the late winter through the fall.
How to get rid of dandelions from your garden
Dandelions are a tougher, faster-spreading nuisance that can overtake lawns and flower beds if left unchecked.
Recommended steps include:
Pulling weeds by hand or with a weeding tool when the soil is moistRemoving the entire taproot, which can grow up to 10 inches deepMowing regularly to prevent flowering and seed dispersalApplying a natural or selective broadleaf herbicide, if neededMulching garden beds to suppress new growth
For those who prefer an organic garden, experts discourage using herbicides, which may not be fully effective and can harm surrounding plants. Instead, persistence and repeated digging are the most reliable methods.