Selection of the proper turfgrass species and good cultural practices, such as proper mowing and fertilization, should produce a dense stand of grass and provide few opportunities for unwanted weeds. Control methods include manually removing the weeds by pulling and digging or destroying them with broadleaf herbicides. In small areas, pulling and digging are feasible means of weed control. To achieve control, gardeners must remove their entire root system as many perennial weeds grow back from underground plant parts. The most effective broadleaf herbicide products contain a mixture of 2 or all 3 of these compounds.
Combination products control a larger number of broadleaf weed species than a single compound.
For example, 2,4-D does an excellent job of controlling dandelions, but is relatively ineffective against white clover. MCPP, on the other hand, provides excellent control of white clover and only fair control of dandelions. A product containing 2,4-D and MCPP effectively controls dandelions and white clover. Broadleaf herbicide products containing dicamba are the most effective on ground ivy. In the fall, perennial broadleaf weeds are actively translocating carbohydrates to their roots.