Knowledgebase
Getting rid of thistle #394367
Asked April 18, 2017, 2:13 PM EDT
Thistle has overtaken my perennial bed. After I dig it out (never getting the entire root) it comes back twice as many. I may have lost most of my plants due to this increasing problem over the last three years.
Carroll County Maryland
Expert Response
The key to control is vigilance and persistence. Do not let the plant flower and go to seed. Mowing/clipping the tops whenever they appear will also help starve the roots. Use a small paint brush to apply a non-selective systemic herbicide, (active ingredient glyphosate as in Roundup and others) to the cut ends of the top growth will further help to suppress/kill the plants. Follow label directions for timing of the herbicide. Please see the attached publication from the Plant Conservation Alliance for management options
http://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/fact/ciar1.htm
mh
http://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/fact/ciar1.htm
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