Ground elder (Aegopodium podagraria) is a perennial weed with green carrot-scented leaves and clusters of white flowers. It spreads through rhizomes, forming a dense root network that makes it an aggressive and persistent weed.
Getting rid of Ground elder can be challenging but manageable with consistent efforts using various tried and tested methods.
In this post, we’ve outlined different ways you can use to eliminate Ground elder in your landscape.
The Effective Ways to Get Rid of Ground Elder
It’s hard to ignore this problematic weed, especially since it grows rapidly and takes up a lot of space in the garden. Whether you’re dealing with a small or large infestation, here are the most helpful strategies to get rid of Ground elder:
1. Manual Removal
Digging and hand-pulling can be effective, especially for small infestations. Remove as much of the root system as possible since even small fragments can regrow.
Regular monitoring and mowing of new growth can also help prevent re-infestation.
2. Mulching

Applying a thick layer (2-3 inches) of organic mulch, such as bark chips or straw, can suppress Ground elder by blocking light and smothering the plants. The mulch method will weaken and eventually kill the weed over time.
3. Solarization
Solarization involves covering the affected area with clear plastic during the hottest part of the year. The penetrating sunlight heats the soil and kills the weed, including its roots and seeds.
This method is effective during peak summer months and requires lots of patience for effective results.
4. Landscape Fabric

After cutting the plants to the ground, you can cover the infested area with dark landscape fabric or even heavy-duty materials like cardboard.
These materials starve the remaining plant fragments and roots of light and nutrients, effectively killing them over time and preventing regrowth. You should avoid using plastic landscape fabric.
5. Herbicides
If natural methods are insufficient, herbicides can provide better control of ground elder. Homemade solutions containing vinegar or salt can be applied on actively growing foliage of the weed.
The most recommended commercial herbicides for ground elder control are triclopyr or glyphosate. These should be applied to actively growing foliage, typically in late spring or early summer. As with every strategy, you may have to make several applications to effectively get rid of the weed.
6. Preventive Measures
The last thing you want is the re-emergence of the weed in your garden after getting rid of it. First, ensure that any new plants introduced to your garden are free of ground elder.
Secondly, barriers should be used to prevent it from spreading from adjacent areas into your garden or landscape. Additionally, improve soil drainage and reduce shade to make the environment less hospitable for Ground elder.
Combining these methods based on your specific situation and the severity of the infestation often yields the best results. Remember, persistence and regular garden maintenance are key to keeping ground elder at bay.

Lead Editor for Insight Weeds.