Dandelion roots often extend 10 inches into the ground.
Although dandelion root can be beneficial for medicinal purposes, that doesn't necessarily mean you want it growing in your yard. Homeowners have taken to several methods to rid their yards of the bright yellow flowers, including mowing over them and ripping their tops off. However, dandelions won't stop growing unless you remove their root systems. Dandelions have lengthy taproots that grow up to 10 inches long, which often makes their removal a bit difficult; but with the help of a few tools, you can rid your yard of dandelion root for good.
Instructions
1. Dig underneath the dandelion with a shovel or specialized tool made just for dandelion removal. Dig at least 2 inches down to get the top 2 inches of the taproot. Although the taproot is longer, removing the top 2 inches of the dandelion typically root causes it to perish. Dig the dandelions out of the ground when they are still yellow; before they go to seed.
2. Spray the dandelions with herbicide. Herbicides attack the weed from the top to the bottom, killing its vegetation and root system. Most sprays are applied directly to the dandelion invaders; however, read the product's label for best results. Apply the sprays to the dandelions in the fall and when the grass is dry.
3. Pour undiluted white vinegar into a squirt bottle. Spray the base of the plant, as well as the mid-section or the center of the flower. This application is advantageous for dandelions that sprout in sidewalk or driveway cracks, as vinegar will kill whatever vegetation it encounters -- even growth you want to hang around. Apply the vinegar daily until the dandelion turns brown and dies, which is an indicator the dandelion root is dead, as well. Reapply the spray after it rains.
Tags: dandelion root, your yard