I cannot emphasize enough the need to get these invasive plants by the roots when they’re small. It makes things so much easier later on. I know it’s time consuming but it’s even more so once they have become larger. Black swallow wort spreads like crazy if it’s allowed to go to seed (they are in yellow seed pods which are appearing everywhere right now!)
These roots and seed pods go into the trash. I’ve been advised by @greenabundancebydesign to let Japanese knotweed dry out and die on pavement because the moisture they can be created in trash bags could cause the plant to re-sprout. You can then compost the plant or put it in the yard waste bins.
Whether a plant is referred to as “invasive” is an official classification by a government agency. Apply this approach to any plant that is aggressive but invasive plants are especially problematic.
It’s best to be able to avoid use of chemicals but if you have a larger-sized tree of heaven or Japanese knotweed you can’t dig out, consult articles from your local university extension office. (Penn State Extension has great resources for this: https://extension.psu.edu/). Follow instructions on the labels and in addition to products containing glyphosate, or the concentrated formulas, triclopyr is another chemical that is often used to treat tree of heaven.
Video done by my clients Ted and Kara in their yard
About me: I’m a garden coach and consultant in zone 6 in the Boston area but almost all of the principles I talk about are applicable to any garden. Go here to schedule consultations, download pruning guides and more: Website: https://www.youcandoitgardening.com
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