The Invaders: Canada Thistle

[grannygruntz]

*I have an INFESTATION of this thistle in my yard.

*The chemical named was not clear.

*A Master Gardener from Univ. of Illinois stated this thistle is a RUNNER.

*"Pulling up the roots" does not work because the roots are TOO FAR UNDERGROUND.

*The vast number in my yard have been pulled up several times over TO NO AVAIL - THEY KEEP RETURNING & MULTIPLYING

*There is an effective chemical but must be applied individual to each plant.

*I am elderly & physically unable to do so.

*SUGGESTIONS?

[Blbmbr666]

@grannygruntz Try applying a systemic herbicide in the fall. The plant will be sending resources to the roots for overwintering at this time, and the herbicide will be taken with it and severely injure or kill the roots.