How to Get Rid of Patchouli

Oils from the patchouli plant are frequently used in perfumes.

Leafy patchouli plants grow and spread quickly if planted in a warm, sunny location but these showy plants can throw off quite a scent. Herbalists grow patchouli for the health benefits of the leaves and as a perfume base. While some find the smell intoxicating and sensual others consider this musky odor offensive. The average patchouli plant grows to about 3 feet in height and has fuzzy leaves. If you find these plants offensive or just need the garden space, you can get rid of them in a couple simple ways.

Things You'll Need

• Rubber gloves
• Surgical mask
• Shovel
• Garbage bags

Instructions

1. Expose the patchouli to cold temperatures. This plant hates cold weather and will quickly die if you leave outdoors, unprotected.

2. Put on rubber gloves and wear a surgical mask. The gloves will prevent the aroma from seeping into your skin and the mask will block the odors some.

3. Dig around the base of the patchouli plant with a shovel to loosen the soil.

4. Grasp the plant by the base its base and tug it from the ground. Place the plants in garbage bags and toss them in your garbage can.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask a friend who likes aromatherapy if he would like to come and remove the plants or at least harvest the leaves before you kill them.

References

• Gardening Central: Patchouli Plant
• Botanical Journeys Plant Guides.com: Patchouli Plant