First things first, when using herbicide please follow all directions on the label. Herbicides are useful but gross tools and you should only use them when they are needed and use them responsibly
Now that that is out of the way, let’s talk about the technique. This is a technique used for the removal of naughty invasive plants in areas where pulling or spraying would be ineffective or damaging. Examples of this could be newly seeded prairies, high-quality natural areas or with species such as Canada thistle, purple loosestrife or phragmites. These deep rooted and/or rhizomatous perennials cannot be realistically managed by pulling. You may be able to get a portion of the plants out of the ground but the rhizome remains and will continue to put out new growth. As you can see from the video, this technique delivers a targeted application to the specific plants you wish to kill. No innocent plants (sweet sweet sensitive native species) were harmed in the filming of this video!
It’s important to note that this isn’t a one time treatment for any particular species. There will be rhizomes that resprout, seeds in the ground that will germinate, and you’ll always miss a few plants the first time around. Always monitor your landscape and keep track of the effectiveness of your work. A few thoughtful, well-timed treatments over the course of a few years can drastically reduce and eventually completely eliminate target species.
Pro Tips:
-Always work backwards through the area being treated. Don’t walk through plants you’ve just wicked.
-Snap the flowering heads of the plants and leave them dangling so you can see the areas and plants already treated.
-Feel good, you’re finally about to get rid of that Canada thistle that’s been bothering you for years.
Equipment needed:
fore-arm length, chemical resistant gloves
one cloth glove
glyphosate
spray bottle
Personal Protective Equipment
– Long sleeve shirt
– Chemical apron
– Glasses
– Mask (won’t protect from aerosols unless it’s a respirator).
Remember that the most important thing is to be involved with your landscape. Learn, care and interact. If this video has been helpful to you, please consider making a donation. We offer a variety of ecological services including small garden installations and garden kits free of charge! Toss a few dollars in the pot and help us help others!