Ground ivy and creeping Charlie are indeed the same plant. Known scientifically as Glechoma hederacea, this creeping herbaceous perennial is commonly referred to by both names. It is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae, and it is native to Eurasia. However, it has been introduced to and naturalized in many parts of the United States.
I have had personal experiences dealing with ground ivy, or creeping Charlie, in my own garden. It can be quite a nuisance as it tends to spread rapidly and form loose mats, which can smother other plants and become challenging to control. This invasive nature is why it is often considered a weed by gardeners.
The leaves of ground ivy are round or kidney-shaped with scalloped edges. They are typically dark green and have a slight sheen to them. The stems are square, another characteristic common to the mint family. The plant produces small, purplish-blue flowers in the spring, which are attractive to pollinators such as bees.
One of the reasons ground ivy is sometimes called creeping Charlie is due to its ability to spread by sending out long, creeping stems that root at the nodes. These stems can quickly cover large areas, making it difficult to eradicate once it becomes established. It also has a distinct aroma when crushed, which some people find unpleasant.
To control ground ivy, it is important to take a multi-faceted approach. Here are some methods that have been effective for me:
1. Hand pulling: If the infestation is not too extensive, manually removing the plants by pulling them out from the roots can be an effective control method. However, be sure to remove as much of the root system as possible to prevent regrowth.
2. Mowing: Regular mowing can help keep ground ivy in check, as it is a low-growing plant. However, be cautious when mowing as the stems are quite resilient and can still regrow from fragments left behind.
3. Mulching: Applying a thick layer of mulch around desirable plants can help smother and suppress ground ivy. This will deprive it of sunlight and make it more difficult for it to establish and spread.
4. Herbicides: In severe cases, herbicides may be necessary to control ground ivy. Selective herbicides that target broadleaf weeds, such as those containing 2,4-D or dicamba, can be effective. However, be sure to follow the instructions carefully and avoid spraying on windy days to prevent drift onto desirable plants.
5. Regular maintenance: Regularly monitoring and managing ground ivy is crucial to prevent it from taking over. This includes promptly removing any new growth and maintaining a healthy, well-tended garden, which will make it less susceptible to weed invasions.
Ground ivy and creeping Charlie are different names for the same plant, Glechoma hederacea. It is an invasive creeping herbaceous perennial that can quickly spread and form dense mats. While it may have some attractive qualities, such as its purplish-blue flowers, it is often considered a weed due to its aggressive nature. Controlling ground ivy requires a combination of manual removal, mowing, mulching, and, in severe cases, herbicide use. Regular maintenance and vigilance are key to keeping it in check and preventing it from becoming a major problem in your garden.
