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Thistle in Juniper

13 years ago

Hi There,

I have a bunch of thistle growing up through one of my junipers. They were weeded/pulled once earlier this year but they are back. I've been told by a neighbor that they have a spreading root system so I will never get rid of them unless I use weed killer and kill the junipers in the process. This is not something I would like to pursue so am wondering if anyone has any other suggestions on how to get the thistle out of the junipers.

Thanks!

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Comments (2)

jean001a
13 years ago
Looks like Canada thistle. If so, your neighbor is correct about the root system.

A careful session with digging and/or herbicides need not also kill the junipers.

Part the shrub branches adjacent to one of the thistles.
Place stakes to hold it juniper branches out of the way.
Cut down the thistle, then immediately paint the cut surface of the stub (in the ground) with a broadleaf herbicide.
Repeat as needed.

Likely to require several years of close attention - every time you see greenery, repeat cut & paint episodes.

This post was edited by jean001a on Fri, Jul 5, 13 at 13:51
kday72
Original Author
13 years ago
Oh gosh, I hadn't even thought about staking the juniper branches to keep them apart while I work. I will try this and get to work on those thistles. Thank you Jean!
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