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tombetty72
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hi folks, we have ground elder weed, what is the best way to get rid of it?
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For more on marking an answer as the "Best Answer", please visit our FAQ.I've had no practical experience of ground elder weed, but I'll pass on the info that's in a couple of my gardening books. The main thing about ground elder is that it really needs to be dug up, and every fragment of the roots must be removed. The roots snap easily, and any little bit that's left behind means you get a new plant. If the weed has worked its roots into a plant that you can't, or don't want to, lift to get at it, hoe it and hoe it again and again until the weed dies from lack of nutrients that it gets from the air. One of my books was published in 1969, so the next bit of advice might be illegal by now (!). Try a hormone weedkiller of the 2,4-D type. Two or three dressings in a season are necessary. That's it from my books. Best of luck.
Roundup in the what you need. Works thru the foliage, into the roots and is neutralised when it hits the soil, thus not affecting other plants. Start when the new growth is about 3" high and continue treating as and when. I know there will be people saying dig it out, but it can be an endless, thankless task.
Beware very aware of spray drift, as it will affect any plant thru the foliage.........especially grass!!
Beware very aware of spray drift, as it will affect any plant thru the foliage.........especially grass!!
An additional question about ground elder please. I have cleared it from my garden but have problems with it coming from a neighbours garden , under the fence. He refuses to tackle it. If I use round-up from my side on that under the fence how far back will it kill? It extends about 4feet deep in my neighbours garden. Thank you tombetty22 for the use of your question.