‘best’ method to remove all dandelions from your lawn so they ‘don’t return’

Dandelions will push out grass and other plants, as well as sucking up water and nutrients away from surrounding plants.  An established clump of dandelions can bloom from late spring to

mid-autumn, potentially producing over 10,000 seeds in a year. Dandelion control also tends to be difficult due to their fluffy and far-floating seeds. But the answer to the question of how

to get rid of dandelions is simply a matter of thoroughness and patience. Unsure of how to get rid of these pesky plants, one gardener took to Facebook to ask for some advice. Posting on the

Gardening UK page, David Collins wrote: “Afternoon all what’s the best way to remove all the leafy weeds in my lawn? “Guessing they are dandelions. Just moved into the property, any

pointers would be greatly received.” One of the first pieces of advice that was suggested was to mow the lawn. Sue Reid said: “Mow the lawn, dandelions hate regular mowing, but make sure the

seedbeds are collected to avoid more of them growing.” Mike Stubbs commented: “Mow mow mow! The best way to get rid of them and keep a lawn healthy is to mow it regularly. “You wouldn’t

believe the difference it can make! Also, I tell myself that a few dandelions are ok.” Jennifer Smyth instructed: “Just keep cutting your lawn and don’t let flower as this is their seeds.

Remember to rake your grass and water it regularly. But mainly just keep cutting so they don’t return.” Stephen Clarke commented: “Regular mowing would stop them flowering. Scissors remove

the root if you stab them down and snip.” Other gardeners just recommended digging up the dandelions. Katie Hillery claimed: “I have a fair few of these in my garden, they are a pain. “I get

a hand trowel push in deep and lift they do come up and try and pull most of the root system with it, then push the grass back in place. You might be there a while, but be worth it.” Jane

Addams wrote: “I would use a screwdriver to go in just at the side of the crown and wiggle the screwdriver around the crown, which should enable you to pull the root out and is less damaging

than using a trowel.” Trish Tester suggested that if dandelions can not be dug up straight away, gardeners should deadhead them to “prevent further seeding”.