Q: I recently removed a large amount of entangled vines and plants from around the back of my home. They had been there since before I purchased it in 1969.Β I would like to get rid of the roots before they start growing new sprouts so I can plant a garden. They cannot be dug out because they are really embedded into the house foundation. A friend suggested Round Up but I do not want anything toxic. I have two desert tortoises that live there, and a cat.
A:Β Roundup and similar products made with the active ingredient glyphosate are toxic to desert tortoises, among other things, so I am glad you asked before experimenting. Your best solution is the one you already used. Keeping the weeds under control by continued and persistent removal of the above ground green parts will eventually starve the plants.
Without the ability to photosynthesize, there wonβt be any food to send to the roots and eventually they will die. Unfortunately, this doesnβt happen quickly much of the time, especially if the weeds have been growing since 1969. But donβt let that discourage you. If we could put a man on the moon, we should certainly be able to kill a few weeds.
Peter L. Warren is the urban horticulture agent for the Pima County Cooperative Extension and the University of Arizona. Questions may be emailed to tucsongardensage@gmail.com
