Knowledgebase

Removing lesser celandine #862539

Asked March 26, 2024, 12:15 PM EDT

I have discovered that I have several/many small patches of lesser celandine now growing in my yard. I suspect that, as I look more closely, I will discover more. I am concerned that digging it out successfully (that is, removing all the bulbettes) might not be possible, so I am thinking that glyphosate is the way to go. It is, in fact, one of the recommended treatments in the website. However, that information says to use glyphosate at 50 degrees: presumably that means temperatures at 50F or above? Can you clarify that for me? And what a shame that this pretty little plant is invasive. I add it to my list of things that invaded my yard, including Japanese stilt grass, vinca, oriental bittersweet, and honeysuckle. Ugh.

Prince George's County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi, 

Glyphosate works by translocation through the plant material. If it is lower than 50 degrees the plants most likely will be in a state of dormancy so the chemical will not work as well since the movement will be slowed. 50 or above is correct. For LC you could try to apply if the night temepatures are in the 40s, below that and it most likely wouldn't have any affect. LC is a spring plant that will go dormant once it gets too hot outside. It may just take a little longer to see die back in cooler temperatures. Make sure to use a surfactant or "spreader-sticker" mixed in to help the chemicals break through the waxy coating on the leaves. 

If the label says 'avoid' spraying in lower temperatures than that is more subjective. If the label says DO NOT spray below 50 than that is the law. 

This article from Iowa State Extension explains the temperature range in more detail.

Emily

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied March 27, 2024, 11:23 AM EDT

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