How to Kill Monkey Grass in Flower Bed
Monkey grass, also known as Liriope muscari, is a popular ornamental plant due to its vibrant green leaves and purple flowers. However, it can become a nuisance when it invades flower beds and spreads rapidly. If you’re looking for ways to kill monkey grass in your flower bed, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will discuss various methods to effectively eliminate monkey grass and restore your flower bed to its former beauty.
Manual Removal
The most straightforward way to kill monkey grass is through manual removal. This method involves digging up the entire plant, including the roots. Here’s how to do it:
1. Water the monkey grass a day before removing it, which makes the roots easier to pull out.
2. Use a shovel or trowel to dig around the base of the plant, being careful not to damage other nearby plants.
3. Once the roots are exposed, gently pull the plant out of the ground.
4. Repeat this process for each monkey grass plant in your flower bed.
After removing the plants, dispose of them in a trash bag or burn them, as monkey grass can regrow from small pieces of roots.
Chemical Herbicides
If manual removal is not feasible or if you prefer a quicker solution, chemical herbicides can be used to kill monkey grass. Here are some steps to follow:
1. Choose a post-emergent herbicide that is effective against grasses, such as glyphosate or dicamba.
2. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for diluting the herbicide.
3. Apply the herbicide directly to the monkey grass plants, avoiding contact with other plants and soil.
4. Wait for the herbicide to take effect, which may take a few days to a week.
5. After the herbicide has killed the monkey grass, manually remove the dead plants and roots.
Preventative Measures
To prevent monkey grass from returning, consider the following measures:
1. Mulch around your flower bed with organic materials, such as wood chips or pine bark, which can suppress the growth of invasive plants.
2. Install a barrier, like landscape fabric or a metal grid, around the perimeter of your flower bed to prevent monkey grass from spreading.
3. Keep an eye on the area and remove any small monkey grass plants that emerge before they have a chance to establish themselves.
Conclusion
Killing monkey grass in your flower bed can be a challenging task, but with the right methods, you can effectively eliminate this invasive plant. Whether you choose manual removal or chemical herbicides, make sure to follow the instructions carefully to protect your other plants and the environment. With some effort and persistence, you can restore your flower bed to its original beauty and keep monkey grass at bay.
