Since this weed reproduces by seed, control it before seeds are produced. Preemergence herbicides are available depending on the kind of turfgrass and ornamental plants grown. Optimum timing of postemergence herbicides is midautumn. Apply all chemicals according to directions on the label. The rosette remains green year-round.
Yellow flowers appear mainly in the spring on long, smooth, hollow stalks.
A second bloom occurs in the fall. The leaves and flower stalks exude a milky juice when broken. Seedlings emerge from late spring to early fall, with most emerging in early summer, several weeks after the seeds are shed. Dandelion will grow in almost any soil type and is most commonly found in sunny areas. It reproduces by seed and from new plants that develop from pieces of broken taproots.