The fastest way to get rid of ground elder is to dig it out and take it to landfill. The “dig and dump” method is also the best way to ensure you never see the weed again! Of course, there are quicker (but far less effective) ways to remove the plant. Here are some things we’ve seen tried over the years.
Natural ways to kill ground elder
Vinegar
Vinegar can stop ground elder in its tracks for a time. However, it’s not strong enough to kill the plant, because pouring vinegar on ground elder’s leaves and stems won’t reach the plant’s complex underground network, which is where it stores its energy.
It’s also worth noting that, although natural, vinegar is harsh. It can harm nearby flora and fauna and will likely reduce the health of your soil. Something you’ll want if you want your garden to flourish after getting rid of ground elder!
Ground Elder
A pretty plant that's pretty hard to get rid of
Vinegar will reduce the quality of your soil
Boiling Water
Boiling water can also stunt the growth of ground elder, especially if the plant is small. But alas, as with vinegar, boiling water will only kill above-ground foliage. The weed will likely make another appearance. Fair warning, though, like with vinegar, pouring boiling water over your garden will harm other plants as well as the quality of your soil.
Mulching
To get rid of ground elder naturally, you could try mulching. Mulch is made with a variety of materials, like grass clippings, leaves and wood chips. Mulching means laying mulch over ground elder to smother it, essentially stopping sunlight and rain getting to the roots. It’s a messy but sometimes effective way to prevent ground elder spreading further.
Weed Killer
Weed killer, especially strong weed killer containing glyphosate, will go a long way to killing ground elder if used correctly. That said, repeat application at certain times of year (usually around March through to September) might be required to have any true killing effect. Oh, and you’ll have to repeat this practice every year until the weed no longer pops up. It’s a labour of love!
Unfortunately, strong weed killer, also known as herbicide, can be dangerous in the wrong hands, even shop-bought varieties. So, following the manufacturer’s safety instructions is an absolute must! And if in doubt, call in the experts.
Boiling water can look like it's killing ground elder
Usually ground elder needs to be dug out and removed from site
Excavation
Excavation is the fastest, most effective way to get rid of ground elder. Although the most costly, we can attest to the “dig and dump” method usually being the most effective invasive weed removal method, whether that’s Japanese knotweed, bamboo or pesky ground elder.
Here’s how to excavate ground elder DIY style:
- Dig - You have to dig deep, far and wide, essentially following the plant’s root network and removing it as you go.
- Sift - Which involves, you guessed it, sifting or raking through the soil. You must ensure you catch and dispose of any fragments. Even a small piece can start a new growth.
- Remove - Don’t put it in your compost bin or any household waste bin. Instead, take it to your local landfill centre. You may want to call ahead to confirm they will accept green waste.
- Monitor - Unless you’re a professional who removes weeds for a living, it’s unlikely you’ll bag every piece of ground elder. So, it may grow back. If it does, complete steps 1-3 again.
Closing Thoughts
If you feel digging out ground elder is a bit of a job, that’s because it is. If you’re not feeling like such a long slog (and at that, a long slog that may not work) you may want to drop spade and call in the experts.
As weed specialists, with over 26 years’ experience, TCM Soil Solutions know how to dig and remove ground elder from your garden, leaving it free to flourish with plants you actually want! Get rid of ground elder for good, give us a call on: 01787 377336.
