How to Kill Lilly of the Valley & Trumpet Vine
The lily of the valley (Convallaria majalis) and trumpet vine (Campsis radicans) are two relatively common types of garden weeds found growing in many North American gardens. The Lily of the Valley is toxic to humans and pets when consumed. Trumpet vines can grow dense and choke out more desirable shrubs and plants. Take steps to remove both types of plants from your landscape to protect your family and your garden. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Put on garden gloves and manually remove the lilies or vines. This option works best for juvenile lilies and trumpet vines. Grasp the plant firmly at its base and pull upwards at an angle. Large juvenile plants can be removed by first loosening the soil beneath the plant with a spade.
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Rake the plants if you encounter trumpet vines growing along the ground. Drag a hard-tined metal rake across the ground to grab the vines and uproot them. Inspect the area after raking, as some vine tendrils might have been left behind and will grow into new trumpet vines if not plucked.
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Spray the lilies of the valley or trumpet vines with a broad-spectrum glyphosate-based herbicide, available at most nurseries and garden stores. This option is best for large plant infestations that cannot be easily removed manually. Mist the herbicide on the lily or vine's exposed foliage, covering the plant evenly. The lily or trumpet vine will die within 14 days of applying the herbicide. Rake the soil to remove the dead, wilted plants.
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Kill the lily of the valley or trumpet vine naturally as an alternative to toxic herbicides. This option is best for organic or environmentally conscious gardeners. Fill a pot with water, and place it on your stove. Bring the water to a boil, and empty the boiling water on the weeds. The hot water will collapse the lily or vine's cells and kill it. Alternatively, douse the plant daily with white vinegar. The vinegar's natural acidity will kill the weed over the course of approximately one week.
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Tips & Warnings
Discard the lilies in a sealed trash can or compost bin to prevent pets or small children from accidentally ingesting the toxic plant foliage and stems.
A broad spectrum herbicide will kill all plants that it comes in contact with, not just the Lilies of the Valley or trumpet vines.
