How to Get Rid of Spiderwort?

How can we get rid of something when we don’t know what it is? Many people might know about spiderwort and may have dealt with it in the past. Others may not have any idea what spiderwort is and won’t know that it’s even a problem. So, let’s take a look at what this plant is and see what we can do about a plant that is also called widow’s tears and wandering jew.

Some property owners have found that spiderwort, left unattended, can take over a yard, a garden or even move into new territory and cause trouble for the neighbors. These folks have sometimes resorted to digging up dozens of plants only to find that new “sprouts” come back very quickly. They have occasionally resorted to using strong chemicals as a last resort.

Spiderwort: The Target
This plant has small, almost delicate flowers and leaves. But don’t judge the plant by its “cover.” It stands up to tough conditions. It’s very stout and will even grow alone or in bunches. You may see colors other than blue, such as white and pink. As you may have guessed, once they get started the spiderwort plant doesn’t need much attention to thrive. It is considered a pest or weed by some.

As mentioned earlier, digging the plants might be the best way to rid your property of spiderwort. It won’t take as much strength as you might think for this tough little plant. They do come out of damp soil rather easily. It may be wise to get to them before they become too mature. If you wait too long, new seeds will contribute to new growth.

Take Care, Really Take Care
If you have just a few spiderwort plants in a small area, it’s time to focus on getting rid of what’s there and preventing new growth. You can do this with mulch after carefully clearing the plants completely. Using straw, grass clippings or plastic sheeting (even garbage bags) cover the ground so that no sunlight gets to any seeds that may be in the soil.

Use a bit more “elbow grease” and rake those plants out. Pull them with both a rake and by hand. When you have the plants cleared out burn them. Don’t just discard them in a pile in the backyard! They’ll take off again. It will also help to turn the soil over and/or till it thoroughly. Then watch for any signs of new growth.

Finally, you can use herbicides that are specifically for such plants as spiderwort. As you talk with your local supplier of garden products, ask about glyphosate in the herbicides. This ingredient is a salt that will gradually kill the plants. Take care when applying this treatment as it can affect other plants as well. To get rid of spiderwort you may have to try a combination of two or three of these methods to finally control or eliminate spiderwort.

 Print This Page