Sorrel is a really annoying weed for many garden owners because it is so difficult to control. Chemical pesticides only help to a limited extent, as the plant forms very deep roots. How to destroy dock with and without chemical means.

Chemical dock control is one option, but it is very harmful to humans, animals, vegetation and soil and is therefore not recommended

Sorrel forms very deep roots

If sorrel occurs in the garden or lawn, you should take action immediately. Once the plant has settled in, you hardly have a chance to fight the weeds effectively.

The roots go more than a meter deep into the ground. They form runners from which new plants emerge.

In addition, sorrel reproduces via seeds. Never allow docks to flower in the garden so you can control the spread.

  • Do not let sorrel bloom
  • cut out new rosettes immediately
  • Keep lawn short
  • Use chemical sprays only in emergencies

Destroy sorrel by hand

Pulling out the roots is more effective than using sprays. This should happen as soon as you spot even a small rosette of the dock.

Use a special sorrel cutter to cut out. With it you can get deeper into the ground than with an ordinary weed puller. You must remove the roots as completely as possible, since new sorrel plants will also sprout from leftovers.

Dig out sorrel in the garden or lawn on a day when the soil is very wet, such as after a rainy day. Then the soil is looser and you can get the roots completely out of the soil without any effort.

The use of chemical control agents

The effort of chemical control agents to destroy dock is less than biological control. There are a number of preparations that are suitable for this, such as Roundup, Simplex, Weedex or Dicopur. All agents contain toxic substances.

These pesticides must be used exactly as directed. Some are applied in the spring, others are spray applied in the fall. An application in autumn is not quite as successful, but the lawn can usually be used again in the following spring.

In principle, however, it must be said that sprays on a chemical basis only have a selective effect. Most of the ingredients stay on the surface and don't even get to the deep roots. Therefore, the chemical control of sorrel in the garden or lawn should be viewed critically.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions

If you decide to use chemical sprays to destroy docks, follow the instructions on the package carefully.

Improper use can cause health problems for you, your children and your pets.

tips

If you are using chemical means such as Simplex or Roundup to control docks, do not collect dock leaves to eat. Pets are also not allowed on the lawn to prevent poisoning.

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