How to Kill and Prevent Scotch Broom
Scotch broom was first introduced to North America from Europe in the late 19th century. Originally planted as an ornamental shrub, its invasive and aggressive spreading power soon became evident. Although its bright yellow flowers are a welcome splash of spring color, scotch broom is classified as a noxious weed in most areas. Once established, Scotch broom is difficult to kill. Initial efforts will control Scotch broom's spread. But it must be tackled for several seasons to achieve complete control. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Cut the Scotch broom stand down to ground level. If at all possible, accomplish this task during the growing season, before the scotch broom flowers and sets seed. Young stands, with stems smaller than a pencil's width may be cut down with a lawn mower. Older plants with thicker stems must be tackled with pruning loppers or saws. Scotch broom struggles most to regrow when cut back during periods of drought.
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Place all cut plant material in double-knotted plastic bags and throw it away. Do not compost the Scotch broom. This will encourage its spread.
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Cut the Scotch broom as it grows back to keep it as close to ground level as possible.
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Spray 2,4-D herbicide onto the cut surface of the Scotch broom stems after one of your fall cut-backs. The sooner you apply the herbicide after cutting, the more effective it will be. Cut and spray small sections as you move across the stand.
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Cut and spray once more, roughly two weeks later.
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Plant the area with a native ground cover or other quick-growing, low-maintenance plant species. Scotch broom seed may remain viable in the soil for up to 50 years. However, the seed needs full sun to germinate. The new plants will create the shade necessary to keep the soil shaded. Your local county extension office may be able to recommend good plant varieties for your area.
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Tips & Warnings
La Manchia goats effectively graze Scotch broom and keep its population under control.
Do not pull up Scotch broom or till the soil in an attempt to kill the plant. The adult plants will die, but the seed will be drawn closer to the surface where it germinates readily.
If the area is too large to effectively treat with herbicide, repeated cutting back alone will eventually control the Scotch broom stand.
References
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
