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Killing a kerria japonica

equinnequinn Posts: 2
in Problem solving
Hi

This shrub is out of control in my garden and is suckering everywhere. 

I tried to dig it up a couple of years ago but the roots are very deep and impossible to reach. I just cut it down instead but it's spreading like crazy since. At this stage, I just want rid of it as it looks set to take over the whole bed if I don't. 

What are my options? It's in a bed with some lovely other shrubs which I am keen to keep. Would treating it with round up damage other plants in the bed? Should I try and also cover the suckers with plastic sheets or something?

Please help!

Posts

  • JennyJJennyJ Posts: 10,576
    If you are going the weedkiller route, go for one that is labelled "brushwood killer" or similar. If it's a spray, choose a very still day and maybe protect the plants you want to keep by draping them with plastic sheets ore something until the weedkiller is dry. If you can find a gel formulation that can be painted or smeared on the kerria leaves there would be less risk to other plants, but it's a messy job that needs rubber gloves.

    Doncaster, South Yorkshire. Soil type: sandy, well-drained
  • equinnequinn Posts: 2
    I have round up gel alright, however when I used it before I thought it seemed to affect other plants; tried it on bindweed previously but gave up on it for that reason. 

    Good idea to actually cover the plants I don't want affected, I will try that, thank you.
  • JennyJJennyJ Posts: 10,576
    What's the active ingredient? It used to be glyphosate which is inactivated on contact with the soil and only affects plants that it touches, but they might have changed it. Make sure you don't accidentally transfer any on to other plants from your gloves.
    Doncaster, South Yorkshire. Soil type: sandy, well-drained
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