Strategies for Controlling Shameplant - Expert Guidance to Eradicate This Vigorous, Tropical Invasive Weed
Unwanted Guests in your Yard: Dealing with Shameplant
Summer's upon us, and that means those pesky weeds are back, one of them being the unique and touch-sensitive shameplant, or Mimosa pudica. Originally from Brazil, this invasive low-grower can take over your yard if left unchecked. But don't lose heart; here's a guide on how to deal with it.
Shameplant, also known as "sensitive plant" and "touch-me-not," can be an exquisite addition to tropical gardens with its feathery foliage and pink pincushion blooms. However, in humid US hardiness zones 10 and above, it can become a nuisance, taking over spaces and competing with native plants for nutrition.
If you're tired of sharing your space with this intruder, here's how you can give it the boot.
How to get rid of shameplant
Before diving in, it's worth noting that some avid gardeners actually cultivate it for its fascinating nature and appearance. But, if it's wreaking havoc in your yard, you're not alone in seeking solutions.
Expert tips to get rid of shameplant
Shameplant can be tricky to get rid of due to its prolific seed production and adaptability to various soil types. However, with the right approach, you can control or eliminate this invasive species.
"The most effective method to get rid of any invasive weed is to pull it up by the roots," says Homes & Gardens' Gardens Content Editor, Drew Swainston. "This reduces the chance of re-emergence," he explains.
The younger the plant, the easier it is to dig up. Use a shovel, like this one from Amazon, to dig it up, keeping as much of its root system intact as possible. For even better results, consider using a dedicated weed-pulling tool, such as this one also from Amazon.
Another method to control shameplant is smothering it. This technique blocks sunlight which slows growth, making it a great option for large-scale infestations. You can achieve this using cardboard, mulch, or even a weed tarp from Amazon.
Regularly remove seedpods, which resemble long, brown, fuzzy pods on the plant, using your hands or gardening shears like these from Amazon.
Remember, the key to removing shameplant completely is being diligent. As reoccurrence is common with this weed, you may need to use multiple methods repeatedly until the entire plant is gone.
Eliminating shameplant the expert way
Drew Swainston (former journalist, horticulturist, and professional gardener) shares his insights on this pesky weed.
FAQs
Can I just cut back shameplant to control it?
Cutting back shameplant can help control its spread, but it won't eliminate the plant entirely. The plants will regrow when cut back. However, cutting it back before it goes to seed is an effective way to constrain it in your yard.
Weeding essentials for your yard
- Short-handle weeding tool: Allows for a firm grip and easy weeding with four teeth.
- Vinegar-based weed killer: A powerful solution for eliminating weeds like shameplant.
- Long-handle weed puller tool: Enhances your grip and ease of pulling weeds.
Enrichment Data:
Controlling and Removing Shameplant (Mimosa pudica)
Shameplant (Mimosa pudica) can be challenging to eradicate due to its deep, extensive root network and prolific seed production. Here are effective methods to control its growth or remove it entirely:
Control Methods
- Cutting Back: Regularly cutting the plant back before it goes to seed can help limit its spread. This method will not eliminate the plant, as it will regrow from remaining roots and cut stumps.
- Removing Seeds: Ensure removal of any seed pods and dispersed seeds from the area to prevent new plants from sprouting.
- Digging Up Roots: Digging up as much of the root system as possible is the most effective method for removing the plant. However, due to its deep and complex root network, this can be challenging.
- Mulching or Covering: After removal, cover the area with a thick layer of mulch, compost, or landscape fabric to prevent new seedlings from emerging.
Removal Methods
- Physical Removal: Use a shovel or dedicated weed-pulling tool to dig out the roots.
- Herbicides: Utilize herbicides containing glyphosate as a last resort to kill the plant. However, be mindful of applying them properly to avoid harming other plants.
- Solarization: Cover the area with clear plastic during peak sun to heat the soil, killing seeds and roots. This method is non-chemical and environmentally friendly.
- Companion Planting: Plant more desirable plants in the area to crowd out the shameplant over time.
Additional Considerations
- Disposal: Properly dispose of removed plant material to prevent further spread.
- Monitoring: Regularly monitor the area for new growth and take action promptly to prevent re-establishment.
By combining these methods, you can effectively control and remove shameplant from your yard.
- Vegetable gardening can be an enjoyable addition to a home-and-garden lifestyle, but unwanted intruders like the shameplant may pose a challenge.
- adopting a consistent approach that includes digging up the roots, smothering, and removing seeds can help you eliminate shameplant from your garden and restore balance to your home-and-garden space.
