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Killing shrubs without chemicals

B3B3 Posts: 27,505
in The potting shed

OK, I'm bonkers but I feel that killing an unwanted shrub with chemicals is a bit unsporting - a bit like fishing with a stick of dynamite.

What I tend to do if I can't dig it out, is cut it to a stump, do as much damage to the roots as possible and rub off any shoots as they appear.

My question is: if you rub off the shoots,will the roots continue to grow?

In London. Keen but lazy.

Posts

  • nutcutletnutcutlet Posts: 27,445

    If you're vigilant you will succeed. A plant can't live without leaves for photosynthesis



    In the sticks near Peterborough
  • B3B3 Posts: 27,505

    I think I've done for a couple of goat willows. It's good to know that they're unlikely to be plotting under the surface.

    In London. Keen but lazy.
  • nutcutletnutcutlet Posts: 27,445

    Laurels give in easily as well image



    In the sticks near Peterborough
  • B3B3 Posts: 27,505

    I'm not blessed with laurels fortunatelyimage

    In London. Keen but lazy.
  • nutcutletnutcutlet Posts: 27,445

    best without. I'd rather have a goat willow.image



    In the sticks near Peterborough
  • nutcutletnutcutlet Posts: 27,445

    entirely true but you do have to be vigilant, if you let leaves grow at all they will photosynthesise



    In the sticks near Peterborough
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