Q&A: Killing Dandelions

Q: I have so many dandelions in my yard that they seem to be the only thing there. I have pulled a lot by hand and used weed killers. Any help would be great!

A: Applying a broadleaf herbicide when dandelions are actively growing should have taken care of most of them. Or try mechanical means. Attack when they are weak, which means weeding with a vengeance during their flowering stage, removing as much of the root as possible. Mow and remove the clippings if they do go to seed to prevent reseeding. A healthy lawn is a deterrent to dandelions because they prefer thin turf. Also, mowing with the blade set high will allow the grass to shade the low-growing weeds and slow the germination of weed seeds.

— National Gardening Association