Moneywort is a common weed that grows in moist soil and can become a nuisance if it takes over your garden or lawn. It grows in clumps and has small, oval-shaped leaves that are bright green in color. The weed can reach heights of up to 12 inches and produces small, white flowers. It's a fast-growing plant and can quickly overtake your garden, making it hard to keep up with. Thankfully, there are some natural and chemical-free ways to get rid of moneywort.
Pulling Moneywort by Hand
The first and most obvious way to get rid of moneywort is by pulling it up by hand. This can be tricky, as the roots of the weed can be quite tough to pull up. You should make sure to wear gloves to protect your hands, and use a trowel or hand fork to loosen the soil around the weed first. Once the soil is loose, you can grab the weed and pull it up, making sure to get as much of the root system as possible. If you miss any of the roots, they will quickly start growing back, so make sure to get them all!
Smothering Moneywort with Mulch
Another chemical-free way to get rid of moneywort is by smothering it with a thick layer of mulch. Mulch is a great way to block out sunlight and prevent weeds from growing, as it prevents them from getting the essential nutrients they need to grow and thrive. Simply spread a thick layer of mulch over the weed and it will soon die off. This method works best when the mulch is applied directly to the weed, rather than just spread around it.
Using a Flame Gun
A flame gun is a great way to get rid of moneywort without using any chemicals. The flame gun applies intense heat to the weed, which quickly kills it off. You should be careful when using a flame gun, however, as it can easily damage other plants or start a fire if used improperly. Make sure to follow the safety precautions on the product's label and keep the flame gun away from any flammable materials.
Using Natural Predators
There are some natural predators that can help you get rid of moneywort without using any chemicals. The most common predator for moneywort is the flea beetle, which feeds on the leaves of the weed. There are also other predators like the tachinid fly, which lays its eggs on the weed and once they hatch, the larvae feed on the plant. These predators can be bought in garden centers or online, and they can be a great way to get rid of moneywort without having to use any chemicals.
Using Herbicides
Herbicides are the most common way of getting rid of moneywort, but they should be used as a last resort. Herbicides are a chemical solution, which can be harmful to other plants and animals in your garden. If you do decide to use herbicides, make sure to follow the instructions on the product's label, and wear protective clothing and gloves. Also, make sure to choose an herbicide that is specifically designed for moneywort and not for other weeds.
Preventing Moneywort from Growing Back
Once you have got rid of the moneywort, it's important to take steps to stop it from growing back. The best way to do this is to keep the soil around the area where the weed was growing moist. This will prevent the weed from taking hold again. You should also make sure to remove any dead leaves or stems, as they can still contain viable seeds and will sprout new plants. Finally, make sure to regularly check the area for any new signs of moneywort and take action if you see any.
Conclusion
Moneywort can be a nuisance in your garden or lawn, but thankfully there are some chemical-free solutions to get rid of it. Pulling it up by hand, smothering it with mulch, using a flame gun, and introducing natural predators are all effective ways to get rid of the weed. You should also take steps to prevent it from growing back, such as keeping the soil moist and removing any dead leaves or stems. With some patience and dedication, you can get rid of moneywort without using any chemicals.