Perennial weeds are far trickier to deal with than annual weeds. They die back in winter each year before re-emerging the following spring so you need to kill the root in order to kill the plant. Worse still, some weeds such as bindweed can propagate themselves from the tiniest piece of broken root, so it’s really important to clear these weeds thoroughly before you dig over or rotavate the soil.
A sustained attack is usually the most successful course of action. Ideally you can remove them by hand, digging out the roots and all. Alternatively, hoe the tops off immediately when they appear above ground. Be persistent and eventually this will starve the roots and kill the plant.
Of course, for many gardeners, the most reliable method is to use weedkiller. There are a staggering array of different types available to the gardener, so how do you choose the right weedkiller for the job? Once again, it pays to know what type of weed you are tackling. Annual weeds can be quickly and easily killed using a contact action weedkiller. This will kill only the part of the plant that comes into contact with it so you need to be thorough when spraying. This type of herbicide works fast and you will quickly see results.
Perennial weeds on the other hand are best killed using a systemic herbicide such as Glyphosate. These herbicides enter the plant cells when they are sprayed onto foliage. The chemical is gradually transported to the roots where it will slowly kill the weed. Systemic herbicides will take much longer, and may require subsequent applications for particularly persistent weeds, but they are ultimately far more effective at preventing regrowth. Try to be patient when using this type of weedkiller as it can take several weeks for the roots to die, even though the top of the plant may appear dead already.
Once weeds are under control, it’s worth keeping on top of them. A quick tour of the garden with your hoe once a week is far less daunting than waging war against a full army of weeds.
Plants and gardens have always been a big part of my life. I can remember helping my Dad to prick out seedlings, even before I could see over the top of the potting bench. As an adult, I trained at Writtle College where I received my degree, BSc. (Hons) Horticulture. After working in a specialist plantsman’s nursery, and later, as a consulting arboriculturalist, I joined Thompson & Morgan in 2008. Initially looking after the grounds and coordinating the plant trials, I now support the web team offering horticultural advice online. I have a keen interest in drought resistant plants and a passion for perennials, particularly hardy Geraniums. I previously stood as regional secretary for the International Plant Propagation Society which gave me lots of opportunities to see what other horticulturalists were up to in their nurseries and gardens.
how do I get rid of substantial growth of elderberry in my privet hedge
Hi Mavis,
The best way is to get to the base of the elder and cut it away at ground level, I appreciate this may be difficult to get to but it will only get worse. Once you’ve cut it then using a good quality stump killer is the best solution. Apply it carefully to avoid harming the privet hedge! The only other alternative is digging out the stump and replanting that section of the hedge.
Don’t forget you can also ask questions over on our Gardening Community too 🙂
Kind Regards
Holly
Dear Holly, Thank you so much for your speedy reply. I had thought about stump killer but not sure which is the best. Trouble is we have to part the privet and somehow get to the elder trunk and as it is mainly growing right in the middle and the privet is quite healthy. But, we have decided to do what you have suggested and would be most grateful if you could recommend a herbicide. We have taken note that no other part only the elder mmust be touched by the substance.
Kind regards
Mavis
Hi Mavis,
You’re welcome. Any good local garden centre or hardware store will have what you are looking for. Unfortunately we are unable to recommend a specific brand to you.
Kind Regards
Holly
Thank you for this information which would have taken me hours of “googleing”. I inherited a garden which was full of weeds, mostly the worst kind, brambles, bindweed, etc. I have an idea how to get rid of them now.
Glad you found this useful. Best of luck with your weed battles Avril.