Question From: C. May - MICHIGAN
Q: Is there some easy way to thin out ground cover without digging up each plant? This myrtle, I think, plus elm seedlings and what not, came with the house and has gotten out of hand. It's on a hill so hard to address by hand and I have some physical limitations when gardening too. (You may have addressed this another time and I missed it) Thank you for any ideas! Chris May
A:
Christine, I am not clear as to what you are trying to accomplish. Are you trying to get rid of weeds and seedling trees? Best Nancy
Q: It's seedlings, a couple of weeds and mostly 'too long of ground cover that has now intertwined with others'. I have used a hedge trimmer in past to lower the mess but wondered if there are any 'ground cover killers' in a spray or powder to mix and throw on it. Thank you very much for any ideas. Chris
A:
An herbicide containing Glyphosate, such Roundup, will kill out the plants. It comes in a ready to use spray. Be aware that it will damage or kill any plant it touches so it should be used with care and caution. If you wish to kill only certain plants, paint it on their leaves with a paint brush. Read the entire label before using and never apply it on a windy day. Drift will kill or damage other plants in the area. Good Luck and Happy Yardening, Nancy
Comment: Thank you very much! ( I was just cleaning out some old files for the new year and must have found 5-6 of your columns about various gardening issues!) Chris
Response:
