Gardening Expert Reveals Effective Strategies to Combat Persistent Horsetail Weed

Gardening Expert Shares Top Tips for Eradicating Stubborn Horsetail Weed London, UK – For many gardeners, the persistent horsetail weed, also known as mare's tail, presents a formidable challenge. However, a popular gardening expert, known as 'Gardening with Ish,' recently offered valuable insights into managing and eliminating this resilient plant through both natural and chemical methods. According to Ish, horsetail, much like bindweed, is notoriously difficult to remove due to its robust nature and deep root systems. He advises gardeners to adopt a persistent approach, starting with physical removal. "The best thing you can do is dig it up as best as you can," he states, emphasizing the need to remove as much of the root as possible. Following digging, Ish recommends planting thick, clumping plants such as salvias and grasses over the affected area. This strategy aims to starve the horsetail of light, hindering its growth. Similarly, for horsetail in lawns, regular mowing is key. "By regularly mowing it, you're actually cutting down the energy and starving it of light," he explained, noting that while it takes time, this method can effectively suppress the weed. Soil composition also plays a crucial role. Horsetail thrives in poorly drained, acidic soil. Ish suggests replacing excavated soil with well-drained, sandy soil and incorporating an alkaline base, such as baking powder, to create an environment less hospitable to the weed. "Lavender will thrive in [alkaline soil], but this [horsetail] absolutely detests it," he noted. For a more aggressive approach, particularly when natural methods prove insufficient, Ish discussed the use of weed killers like Roundup. He cautioned that horsetail has a protective coating, making direct application ineffective. Instead, he advises gardeners to first physically crush the plant to break this layer. "You'll hear it crunch in your hands," he demonstrated, adding that once mangled, the weed killer can be applied, perhaps using a bag method to protect surrounding plants. While acknowledging it's not a complete eradication solution, he stated it's currently the most effective chemical option. Ish concluded by reiterating that while horsetail can be an "absolute pain," it can be managed with consistent effort and patience.

Express.co.uk

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