Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

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General Information: The Dandelion is a common perennial weed that forms a large flat rosette and it has a long stout tap root.

Leaf: The Dandelion leaves which have many health benefits are lance-shaped and hairless, they have deep downward sharp pointing teeth and can be up to 25cm in length. The leaves grow in a flat rosette formation which smother and kill the grass beneath.

Flower: The single yellow flower grows on top of a smooth stalk and can be seen from March to November. The flowers eventually turn into thousands of air and wind bourne seeds. See pictures on the left.

Preferred habitat: The Dandelion is a perennial weed that can tolerate a wide range of soil types and conditions. It particularly likes nutrient rich soils with a high pH.

Control: Hand weed is practical if there are only a few plants, however it is very important that all of the tap root is removed to prevent the plant from re-growing.

For a widespread infestation of dandelions a selective herbicide will have to be used. Use a selective weed killer containing fluroxypyr & clopyralid or 2,4-D mixture and repeat again 6 weeks later if necessary, however in most cases a single application is usually enough to completely control this weed. We have further help and advice on our weed control page regarding the application of selective weed killers.

Recommended selective weed killers for Dandelion.

Verdone Extra (fluroxypyr, clopyralid & MCPA).
Westland lawn weed killer (2,4-D, mecoprop-p & dichlorprop-p).
Westland lawn feed, weed & moss killer (2,4-D & mecoprop-p) includes a fertiliser.
Vitax green up lawn weed & feed + moss killer (2,4-D & mecoprop-p) includes a fertiliser.
Doff lawn spot weeder (2,4-D, mecoprop-p& dichlorprop-p).

When applying weed killers it is important to follow the manufacturers recommendations and health and safety measures at all times.

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