Possible ground elder
How to Deal with Ground Elder in Garden Borders
Ground elder is one of the most persistent and frustrating weeds you can encounter in a garden. It spreads quickly through underground roots (rhizomes), weaving its way through flower beds and around established plants, making it extremely difficult to remove completely.
Even when using strong systemic weed killers such as Roundup Weed Killer, control can be slow and often requires multiple applications. For heavily infested areas, a more structured approach is usually needed.
Step 1: Remove and Rescue Existing Plants
If your border is heavily affected:
- Carefully dig up all existing plants and shrubs.
- Shake off and clean as much soil as possible from the roots.
- Remove any visible ground elder roots (white, brittle runners).
- Place plants into pots or a separate “quarantine” area of the garden.
This allows you to monitor and gradually eliminate any remaining ground elder from the root systems before replanting.
Step 2: Smother the Infested Area
Once the border is cleared:
- Cover the entire area with landscape sheeting (woven, light-blocking membrane).
- Ensure the sheeting is thick enough to block all light.
- Peg it down securely using ground pins or similar fixings.
- Overlap edges carefully so there are no gaps for light or shoots to get through.
This method works by starving the ground elder of light, gradually killing off the root system.
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Step 3: Control Regrowth Around Edges
Ground elder will often attempt to escape around the edges of the sheeting.
- Regularly inspect the perimeter.
- Pull out any new growth as soon as it appears.
- Alternatively, spot-treat with a systemic weed killer such as Roundup Weed Killer.
Staying on top of edge growth is key to preventing reinfestation.
Step 4: Leave for 6 Months
- Keep the area covered for approximately six months.
- This allows enough time to significantly weaken or kill the root system.
After this period:
- Lift the sheeting.
- Lightly fork over the soil to check for any remaining roots.
Step 5: Assess and Repeat if Needed
If you still find signs of ground elder:
- Re-cover the area with the sheeting for a further period.
- Repeat the process until the infestation is under control.
Working Around Established Plants
In some cases, you may want to keep larger plants or shrubs in place:
- Cut and fit the sheeting carefully around trunks or stems.
- Ensure there are no gaps where light can reach the soil.
- Overlap sections where necessary to maintain full coverage.
This allows you to control the ground elder without removing established planting.
Summary
Ground elder is difficult to eradicate quickly, but with a combination of:
- Careful plant removal and quarantine
- Light exclusion using landscape sheeting
- Persistent edge control
- Patience over several months
…it is possible to bring even heavily infested borders back under control.
