vortical42 t1_iu0200b wrote on October 27, 2022 at 3:40 PM

Reply to comment by brynhild90 in What happened to all the lightning bugs? We used to have so many. by jeffuber

While I generally agree, when it comes to invasive plants, things aren't always so simple. There are quite a few species (lesser celandine is a prime example) where the alternative options to chemicals have their own downsides. If you remove them manually, any bits of root left behind regrow and spread the problem. Putting down a physical barrier kills everything and can cause lasting damage to the soil.

There are no good options so sometimes you have to go with the least bad. Much as I hate the idea of using herbicide, I would rather do that once every few years than let an invasive plant choke out everything in its path.

brynhild90 t1_iu0uja3 wrote on October 27, 2022 at 6:44 PM

Thank you—I am not an expert and I’m still learning! I just hate roundup and I don’t like seeing everything labeled a weed lol. But I do understand what you mean and I appreciate you replying as I’m still learning about gardening and soil/plant health. Do the organic herbicides like Captain Jacks help with these situations or do you have to use harsher ones?

vortical42 t1_iu0x5ua wrote on October 27, 2022 at 7:01 PM

I'm really not familiar enough with the subject to say for sure. The factors you have to look at are effectiveness, environmental persistence, solubility, and side effects.

If the organic solution is only 75% effective, you run the risk of ending up with resistance over time. If the organic solution contains chemicals that persist for months or years that is also bad. One of the good things about roundup (afaik) is that it breaks down quickly after application. Where and when the solution is applied matters as well. If the site is on a hill or near a watershed the chemical needs to be safe for aquatic life. If it is something that affects pollinators, you don't want to apply it while the plant is in bloom.

If you want some better information, check out https://youtu.be/ZgsBzEelZJY . He tests a bunch of different methods and gives an overview of what was effective.