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Dandelions and creeping Charlie: the fall window is closing - Buds Tree Care

Dandelions and creeping Charlie: the fall window is closing

Dandelions and creeping Charlie: the fall window is closing

WeedsNovember 13, 2026

Key takeaway

In fall, perennial weeds send energy to their roots. Purdue's best window for broadleaf control is mid-Sept to early Nov.

Dandelions and creeping Charlie: the fall window has mostly closed.

University of Illinois Extension says fall is a good time to deal with broadleaf weeds, because perennial weeds send energy down to their roots before winter. Purdue Extension puts the best window for a broadleaf herbicide at mid-September to early November, so for most Champaign-Urbana lawns the realistic plan now is to keep the lawn thick and revisit weeds in spring. Purdue also notes that complete weed eradication isn't practical and a few weeds are acceptable.

One tip: rake leaves off the lawn so you can see the weeds, and hand-dig scattered dandelions while they're still visible. If you use any lawn product, follow the label exactly.

Questions about a stubborn weed problem? Request an assessment at budstreecare.com.

Sources: University of Illinois Extension, https://extension.illinois.edu/news-releases/five-fall-tips-cool-season-lawn-care | Purdue Extension AY-9, https://ag.purdue.edu/department/hla/extension/extension-publications-library/ext-pubs/ay-9-w.html

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Buds Tree CareCertified arborists · Champaign-Urbana since 2003
SourcesUniversity of Illinois Extension: Five fall tips for cool-season lawn carePurdue Extension: AY-9: Control of Broadleaf Weeds in Home Lawns

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