How to get rid of thistles once for all

When people say thistle, many gardeners immediately think a tough and persistent weed that needs to be eliminated. Maybe those with extensive botanical knowledge think about the medicinal properties of various thistles, such as the milk thistle (Silybum marianum), but in general, a thistle is one big “NO”.

One of the typical weeds, as far as thistle is concerned, is the creeping thistle (Cirsium arvense). It is a very persistent and though plant and getting rid of it is not easy.

When thistles bloom, you are in trouble

As soon as you notice thistles you need to take action. It does not matter that you see them “only” outside your fence. If you let them “live” they will soon spread throughout your garden and multiply very quickly. If thistles start blooming you are in trouble. An average thistle pod contains about 70 very light seeds and winds can easily spread them over a wide area.

Photo: Pixabay

You also get an additional bonus. Well, bonus is not the right word because the ability of thistle seeds to germinate lasts very long time. Seeds have no problem waiting – up to six years in the ground and germinate when the conditions are right. They wake up and you start seeing thistles in places you thought that you never see them again.

Targeted removal of flowers and a special herbicide

The most important thing is to prevent thistles from flowering. Cut or remove them as often as possible. Use scissors if you cannot pull them out. As any resilient plant, thistles will attempt to regrow and bloom repeatedly throughout the season, so be observant and patient.

Do not think that you have won if you pull the root out. Thistles can regenerate even from a small piece of root that may be hidden very deep. Selective herbicides usually work very well.Apply herbicides in spring to be most efficient (before the end of April at the latest), and you have to repeat it in summer.

Preview photo: Pixabay

Source: https://www.zahradaapriroda.cz/diskuse/tema/jak-se-zbavit-bodlaci/, https://living.iprima.cz/zahrada/poznejte-ty-nejzakernejsi-plevele-zatocte-s-nimi