Can you remove morning glory from your lawn easily? Yes, with a consistent and multi-pronged approach, you can effectively tackle morning glory and reclaim your lawn. This guide will walk you through the best methods for dealing with this tenacious weed.
Morning glory ( Ipomoea species) is a beautiful flowering plant, but when it decides to take over your lawn, it becomes a frustrating problem. Its climbing nature and rapid growth can smother desirable grass and other plants. Dealing with this invasive plant requires a plan. Persistent weeds like morning glory are a common challenge for homeowners. This blog post provides comprehensive lawn care tips to help you win the battle against this unwelcome ground cover.
Identifying Morning Glory
Before you can remove morning glory, it’s crucial to correctly identify it. This will ensure you’re using the right methods for weed control.
- Leaves: Morning glory typically has heart-shaped or three-lobed leaves.
- Flowers: Its most distinctive feature is its trumpet-shaped flowers, which come in various colors like blue, purple, pink, and white. They usually open in the morning and close by the afternoon.
- Growth Habit: It’s a vining plant that twines around other plants, fences, and structures. It can also spread along the ground.
- Roots: Morning glory has a deep taproot and can also spread via rhizomes (underground stems), making vine removal a challenge.
Why Morning Glory is a Problem in Your Lawn
Morning glory’s aggressive growth habit makes it a formidable opponent in your lawn.
- Smothering Grass: Its dense vines can block sunlight, preventing grass from growing and thriving.
- Aesthetic Issues: It looks unsightly and can make your lawn appear unkempt.
- Competition for Resources: It competes with your grass for water, nutrients, and sunlight.
- Seed Production: If allowed to flower and set seed, it can produce thousands of seeds that can remain viable in the soil for years, leading to future infestations.
Methods for Morning Glory Removal
Successfully removing morning glory requires a combination of techniques. There isn’t one single magic bullet, but rather a strategy that combines different approaches.
Manual Removal: The First Line of Defense
Manual removal is often the most satisfying method, especially for smaller infestations. It’s also a key component of any organic weed killers strategy.
Pulling by Hand
- When to Pull: The best time to pull morning glory is when the soil is moist, typically after a rain or watering. This makes it easier to extract the entire root system.
- How to Pull:
- Grasp the base of the plant near the soil line.
- Pull steadily and gently upwards, trying to dislodge the entire root.
- Be thorough! Missed root fragments can regrow.
- For vines that have climbed structures, carefully untangle them as you pull.
- Disposal: Place pulled morning glory in a bag and dispose of it in the trash. Do not compost it, as seeds or root fragments might survive and spread.
Using Tools for Tougher Roots
Sometimes, morning glory roots are too deep or tenacious to pull by hand. Specialized tools can help.
- Dandelion Weeder: The long, narrow blade of a dandelion weeder is excellent for prying out taproots.
- Garden Fork: For larger areas or deeply entrenched roots, a garden fork can help loosen the soil around the root system before you pull.
- Hoeing: Regular hoeing can sever the tops of young morning glory plants, preventing them from establishing. However, this method is less effective against mature plants with strong root systems and may even encourage regrowth from root fragments if not done meticulously.
Pros of Manual Removal:
* Environmentally friendly.
* Precise – you only remove the weed.
* No chemicals involved.
Cons of Manual Removal:
* Labor-intensive.
* May not be effective for large infestations.
* Requires persistence.
Smothering: Starving the Plant of Light
Smothering is a highly effective method for tackling larger patches of morning glory, especially when combined with other techniques. This method is a cornerstone of effective ground cover removal.
Techniques for Smothering
- Cardboard or Newspaper: Cover the infested area with several layers of cardboard or thick newspaper. Overlap the edges to prevent light from reaching the morning glory.
- Mulch: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch (wood chips, straw, compost) on top of the cardboard or newspaper. This helps retain moisture and looks better than bare cardboard.
- Landscape Fabric: For a more durable and long-lasting solution, use heavy-duty landscape fabric. Ensure it’s a permeable fabric that allows water and air to pass through. Secure it with landscape staples.
- Duration: Leave the smothering material in place for at least one growing season, or longer if necessary. This will starve the morning glory of sunlight, weakening and eventually killing the roots.
Pros of Smothering:
* Effective at killing established patches.
* Reduces the need for herbicides.
* Improves soil health when using organic materials.
Cons of Smothering:
* Can be unsightly for a period.
* Requires patience as it takes time.
* May need to be reapplied if morning glory finds gaps.
Organic Weed Killers: Natural Solutions
For those who prefer to avoid synthetic chemicals, several organic weed killers can be effective against morning glory.
Vinegar (Horticultural Grade)
- How it Works: Horticultural vinegar (typically 20% acetic acid) burns plant foliage on contact.
- Application:
- Spray on a sunny, warm day when there is no wind.
- Aim the spray directly at the morning glory leaves and vines.
- Avoid spraying on desirable plants, as it will kill them too.
- Repeat applications may be necessary as the plant regrows from the roots.
- Caution: Horticultural vinegar is potent and can irritate skin and eyes. Wear protective gear.
Boiling Water
- How it Works: The extreme heat from boiling water will scorch and kill plant tissue.
- Application:
- Carefully pour boiling water directly onto the morning glory plants.
- Be extremely cautious to avoid burns and to protect surrounding plants.
- This method is best for small, isolated patches or areas where you don’t have desirable plants nearby.
Salt (Use with Extreme Caution)
- How it Works: Salt draws moisture out of plants, causing dehydration.
- Application: A very dilute salt solution can be sprayed or sprinkled on morning glory.
- Major Caution: Salt can permanently damage soil and kill beneficial microorganisms. It should only be used as a last resort in areas where you do not intend to grow anything else, and even then, sparingly. It is generally not recommended for use in a lawn setting.
Pros of Organic Weed Killers:
* Environmentally friendly.
* Safer for pets and children (though caution is still advised).
Cons of Organic Weed Killers:
* Often only kill the foliage, requiring repeat applications for root kill.
* Can be less effective on mature, established plants.
* Horticultural vinegar and salt can harm soil if overused.
Herbicides: Chemical Control Options
When other methods fail or the infestation is severe, herbicides can be an option. However, careful selection and application are crucial to protect your lawn and the environment.
Selective vs. Non-Selective Herbicides
- Selective Herbicides: These are designed to kill specific types of plants (e.g., broadleaf weeds) while leaving others (e.g., grasses) unharmed. Look for herbicides labeled for broadleaf weed control in lawns.
- Non-Selective Herbicides: These kill all plants they come into contact with, including your grass. They are best used for spot treatment in areas where you want to eliminate all vegetation or to prepare an area for replanting. Glyphosate is a common active ingredient in non-selective herbicides.
Best Practices for Herbicide Use
- Read the Label: This is the most important step. The product label contains crucial information on application rates, target weeds, safety precautions, and when to apply.
- Spot Treatment: Whenever possible, apply herbicide directly to the morning glory plants rather than broadcasting it over the entire lawn. This minimizes chemical exposure and protects desirable plants.
- Timing: Apply herbicides when weeds are actively growing and before they go to seed. Avoid spraying when rain is expected, as it can wash the herbicide away.
- Temperature: Most herbicides are most effective when applied in moderate temperatures (between 60-85°F or 15-30°C).
- Protective Gear: Wear gloves, long sleeves, pants, and eye protection when applying herbicides.
- Multiple Applications: You may need to apply herbicides multiple times to fully eradicate morning glory, especially if the roots are still viable.
Types of Herbicides to Consider:
- Post-Emergent Herbicides: These are applied to actively growing weeds. For morning glory, a broadleaf weed killer containing ingredients like 2,4-D, MCPP, or dicamba can be effective.
- Systemic Herbicides: These are absorbed by the plant and travel down to the roots, offering a more thorough kill. Glyphosate is a systemic herbicide.
Pros of Herbicides:
* Can be very effective for stubborn weeds.
* Faster results than manual or smothering methods for severe infestations.
Cons of Herbicides:
* Can harm desirable plants and lawn grass if not applied carefully.
* Potential environmental impact.
* Requires careful handling and adherence to safety guidelines.
Long-Term Strategies for Preventing Morning Glory Return
Once you’ve successfully removed morning glory, preventing its return is key to maintaining a healthy lawn. This is a crucial aspect of ongoing lawn care tips.
Maintain a Healthy Lawn
A thick, healthy lawn is your best defense against weeds.
- Proper Mowing: Mow at the correct height for your grass type. Taller grass shades the soil, making it harder for weed seeds to germinate.
- Adequate Watering: Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth in your grass.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your lawn appropriately to ensure it has the nutrients it needs to outcompete weeds.
- Aeration and Dethatching: These practices improve soil structure, water penetration, and air circulation, all of which promote healthy grass growth.
Vigilance and Early Intervention
Be on the lookout for any new morning glory seedlings. The sooner you catch them, the easier they are to remove.
- Regular Inspections: Walk your lawn regularly and pull any new morning glory plants you see before they become established. This is particularly important after a major removal effort.
- Seed Bank Management: Morning glory seeds can lie dormant in the soil for years. By consistently removing plants before they go to seed, you reduce the future seed bank.
Using Ground Covers Wisely
While morning glory is an unwanted ground cover, using desirable ground cover plants in areas prone to weeds can help suppress them.
- Consider planting dense, low-growing ground cover plants in garden beds or along borders where morning glory is likely to establish. This provides a living mulch that competes for resources.
Edging and Barriers
- Lawn Edging: Installing physical barriers like metal or plastic edging between your lawn and garden beds can help prevent morning glory from creeping into the grass.
- Fence Maintenance: If morning glory is climbing your fences, address it there as well. Keeping fences free of climbing vines prevents them from seeding into your lawn.
Tackling Morning Glory on Fences and Structures
Morning glory’s vining nature means it will readily climb any available support. Vine removal from fences, trellises, or buildings requires a specific approach.
- Identify the Anchor Points: See where the vines are attached or twining.
- Untangle Carefully: Gently work the vines free. Avoid pulling too hard, which could damage the structure or snap the vine, leaving root pieces behind.
- Cut the Main Stem: Locate the main stem at the base of the plant and cut it.
- Treat Regrowth: If the plant regrows from the roots, you’ll need to apply a treatment as described above. For areas adjacent to desirable plants on the structure, manual removal or careful spot treatment with an organic option is best.
Dealing with Morning Glory in Garden Beds
While this guide focuses on lawns, it’s important to note that garden beds are prime territory for morning glory.
- Mulching: A thick layer of mulch in garden beds is highly effective at suppressing weeds.
- Hand-Weeding: Regularly hand-weed garden beds, always trying to get the root.
- Smothering: If a bed is heavily infested, consider a period of smothering with cardboard and mulch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Will mowing help control morning glory?
While mowing can cut down the tops of morning glory, it is not an effective long-term solution for weed control. The plant has a robust root system and rhizomes that will allow it to regrow, and mowing might even help spread fragments. For effective control, you need to address the roots.
Q2: How long does it take to get rid of morning glory?
Getting rid of morning glory is a process that requires persistence. It can take anywhere from one growing season to several years, depending on the size of the infestation, your chosen methods, and how diligent you are with ongoing garden maintenance.
Q3: Can I use salt to kill morning glory in my lawn?
It is strongly advised not to use salt to kill morning glory in your lawn. Salt can sterilize the soil for extended periods, kill beneficial microbes, and damage your grass. While it will kill the plant, the long-term damage to your soil will be far greater than the benefit of removing the weed. Stick to less damaging methods for effective vine removal.
Q4: What are the best organic weed killers for morning glory?
Horticultural vinegar (20% acetic acid) and boiling water are the most effective organic options. Remember that these typically burn the foliage and may require repeat applications to weaken the roots. Consistent manual removal is also a highly effective organic strategy.
Q5: How do I prevent morning glory from coming back after I remove it?
The best prevention is to maintain a healthy, dense lawn that can outcompete weeds. Regularly inspect your lawn for new seedlings and remove them immediately. Consider using ground cover plants in beds adjacent to your lawn to create a buffer.
Conclusion
Removing morning glory from your lawn might seem like an overwhelming task, but with a strategic approach and consistent effort, you can achieve success. By combining manual removal, smothering techniques, and, if necessary, targeted herbicides, you can effectively manage this invasive plant. Remember that ongoing vigilance and good lawn care tips are crucial for preventing its return and maintaining a beautiful, healthy lawn free from unwanted invasive plants and problematic ground cover removal.