A ground cover can literally add the final touch to your garden, but you need to choose wisely. There are many plants out there that you might want to avoid or keep under control. Chameleon plants are one of them. They can be invasive and, at first glance, unwelcome.
Don’t worry; you don’t have to destroy your entire garden just yet! This article will explain how to get rid of the chameleon plants so that you don’t start pulling your hair out!
We'll also explain what causes this plant's hardiness and which solutions work best as they get bigger and more aggressive.
How to Get Rid of Chameleon Plant - the Methods
There are two easy methods you can use to get rid of chameleon plants. We’ll discuss them all here so that you can make an informed decision about which one is best for your situation.
The first step is to identify where they are growing in your garden. Look closely at the foliage and see if there are any small green buds on it. If so, these will turn into new chameleon plants once they are fully mature!
If you have a small number of plants in your garden, it may be easier to pull them out by hand. If the infestation is large, consider using herbicides or other chemicals that will kill all the surrounding plants at once.
Dig them Out
Some gardeners choose to remove entire clumps of daylilies (Hemerocallis). However, if you don’t have that much time, you can dig a 12-inch-deep (30.5 cm.) trench around the perimeter of a large chameleon patch, removing any visible rhizomes and the layer of soil that surrounds them. If the bed has been invaded by unwanted plants, remove them as well. If there are any fragments from broken-off rhizomes or stems remaining in the ground, carefully sift through the soil with a tarp to find them. Place all of the removed pieces in a bag and put it somewhere else in your yard.
When you're finished with your digging, put clean soil back into the hole that was created by removing the unwanted plants and broken rhizomes. In subsequent seasons, watch for new growth and be sure to pull off any additional sprouts when they appear. You will have to repeat this process for two years before there won't be any more new growth.
The Chemical Way
It is possible to get rid of chameleon plants from your yard completely, but it will take several years and a lot of hard work. Glyphosate (a chemical) can be used to kill the chameleon plant, but you should use it only as a last resort since organic methods are safer for both humans and the environment.
However, among the chemicals, Glyphosate is the best option to remove chameleon plants. You can purchase this chemical in a concentrate or already mixed with water, depending on the size of the job.
Remember, you should use it carefully to avoid harming other plants or animals in your area.
Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection when applying this product, as it can cause skin irritation and harm your eyes.
To use the chemical safely and effectively, follow these steps:
1) Cut back the plants and
2) Paint or drip a small amount of the chemical on the open stem to reduce the amount utilized and prevent drift.
You may need to reapply next season, but this method is probably safe and might work well if you do it right away. After one or two seasons, this method should eliminate the problem entirely.
Again, it is recommended to stick with the organic methods. They are safer for people and the environment, though they may not be as effective as chemical management.
Wrapping Up
Whether you're a pro gardener or a typical homeowner-type who wants to beautify their yard, there's no denying the benefits of ground cover plants. Spotted and striped runners, heirloom-worthy trailing ivies, butterfly bush, and spider plant varieties are just some of the ground cover plants that have garnered much popularity over the last few years.
But if you love ground cover plants and are planning on purchasing some new ones, make sure to learn about them before you bring one home. Chameleon plants are loved by some gardeners for their easy care but fear not if you have a problem with them in your landscape. The methods and tips we mentioned above will help you get rid of the chameleon plants. If you have anything to ask, feel free to contact us.