(LAGRANGE) - Dandelions are beginning to emerge across Indiana lawns as spring gets underway.
Jeff Burbrink with Purdue Extension says the plant is a perennial broadleaf weed in the daisy family that thrives in full sun and moist soil but can survive in a wide range of conditions, including drought, shade and low soil fertility.
After blooming, the yellow flowers quickly turn into white seedheads capable of producing between 140 and 200 seeds, which can spread by wind over long distances.
Burbrink notes the plant's deep taproot allows it to regenerate even after being removed, making it difficult to fully eliminate from lawns.
While herbicides can be effective, spring applications often only impact the top of the plant and do not kill the root. He says the most effective time for treatment in northern Indiana is in the fall, when herbicides can be absorbed into the root system.
In the meantime, maintaining a healthy lawn can help reduce dandelion growth. Recommendations include fertilizing multiple times per year, mowing at a height of at least three inches and watering deeply but less frequently.
Burbrink also cautions that grass clippings from treated lawns should not be used as garden mulch, as herbicide residue can damage other plants.