Dandelions are so annoying. I dig them, they grow back and just keep popping up again. It makes you wonder if there is a secret to their multiple lives. Well, the secret is out. Dandelions have long roots that go deep. I found if I dig them and leave out part of the roots, it will send up a new weed to replace the one you thought was never to be seen again. Digging dandelions or pulling them out is definitely hit or miss.
Unlike crabgrass that are eliminated by pre-emergent herbicides, dandelions are perennials. Now that you see the rosettes and before they bloom is the time to control them. Apply weed and feed to damp lawn. This allows the chemical to go through the leaves of dandelions and be transported to all other parts including the roots. It only takes days for those nasty dandelions to curl up and wither. Better yet you do not have to wet your lawn before applying if you use a spray like Weed-B-Gon, just make sure they is no breeze when applying.
Also remember not to apply this on a rainy day if you don’t want your weed killer to just be washed away by rain. Finally, one more thing to keep in mind is to feed your lawn regularly. Eliminating the weeds is always just 50% of the battle. Fortify your lawn against weeds by regular feeding, at least four times a year. Keep your grass length to 2.5 up to 3 inches tall after you mow to help keep the weeds from germinating.