Dandelions: How to Get Rid of Them and Keep Them from Coming Back

Dandelions might look cheerful with their bright yellow blooms, but for many homeowners, they’re a frustrating sign of lawn trouble. These common weeds are stubborn, fast-spreading, and tough to eliminate once they take root. In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about dandelions—why they grow, how to get rid of them, and how to keep them from returning.

What Are Dandelions?

Dandelions are broadleaf perennial weeds that are easily recognizable by their yellow flowers and fluffy white seed heads. Each plant can live for several years, and just one dandelion can produce hundreds of seeds that float through the air and land all over your yard (and your neighbor’s). These weeds thrive in weak or thinning grass, compacted soil, and areas with poor nutrient balance.

Why Dandelions Keep Coming Back

Dandelions are survivors. Their deep taproots can reach up to 10 inches into the soil. Even if you break off the top of the plant, the root can regenerate and grow a brand-new dandelion. They’re also quick to take advantage of any bare or thin patches in your lawn where grass isn’t competing well.

How to Get Rid of Dandelions

Here are a few methods you can use to control dandelions:

1. Manual Removal

• Best for: Small infestations.

• Use a dandelion puller or weeding tool to remove the entire plant, including the taproot.

• Do this when the soil is moist—it's easier to get the whole root out.

2. Spot Spraying with Herbicide

• Best for: Moderate to heavy infestations.

• Use a selective broadleaf herbicide that targets weeds like dandelions but won’t harm your grass.

• Apply in early spring or fall when the weeds are actively growing.

• Be careful to follow label directions to avoid damage to your lawn or surrounding plants.

3. Lawn-Wide Weed Treatments

• Best for: Lawns with widespread weed problems.

• Apply a lawn-safe weed-and-feed product that combines fertilizer with a weed killer.

• Fall is an ideal time for this, as dandelions are storing energy in their roots and are more vulnerable.

4. Utilize a Professional Fertilization and Weed Control Company

• ProGuard Pest and Lawn has the knowledge and products to take care of dandelions

• Year-round control is the best way to control and prevent dandelions

How to Prevent Dandelions

Once you’ve taken care of the current infestation, the real goal is to stop dandelions from coming back. Prevention is all about building a thick, healthy lawn that leaves no room for weeds to grow.

1. Keep Your Lawn Thick and Healthy

• Overseed thin areas in the fall to promote thick grass coverage.

• Water deeply but infrequently—about 1 inch per week.

• Mow high (3–4 inches) to shade out weed seeds and encourage strong grass roots.

2. Aerate and Fertilize Regularly

• Aerate compacted soil in the fall or spring to help roots grow deeper and improve nutrient uptake.

• Apply a balanced fertilizer to feed your grass and discourage weed growth.

3. Apply Pre-Emergent in Early Spring

• A pre-emergent herbicide can help prevent dandelion seeds from germinating.

• Apply it in early spring—right as soil temperatures start to warm up—to catch weeds before they sprout.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Dandelions may be persistent, but with the right approach, you can take back your lawn. The key is consistency: remove them early, strengthen your grass, and stay on top of lawn care throughout the year. If you need help, a ProGuard Pest & Lawn can evaluate your yard and create a plan to get rid of dandelions for good.

Want a dandelion-free lawn this season? Reach out—we’d love to help!