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Re: Thistles

----- Original Message -----
> A squirrel chewed open the thistle sock I put out for the gold finch,
> and
> thistles have popped up everywhere.  I've pulled, dug and even
> resorted to
> Round-Up.  I am desperate.  Is there any way to kill this prickly
> creatures
> of invasiveness?

Hi Doreen, 

Thistles are very sensitive to vinegar:

   http://www.moscowfood.coop/archive/VinegarKillsWeeds.html

As the article states, a 5% vinegar solution (like the stuff
you buy in gallon jugs) killed the top growth of thistle with
100% effectiveness (the plants usually regrow from the roots,
however).

This source says to apply the vinegar in the sun:

   https://attra.ncat.org/attra-pub/PDF/thistlecontrol.pdf

I've heard people question its use because of possible soil pH
influences or effects on other plants, but from what I understand
that's really only a concern if used in stronger concentrations.
Since thistle is so sensitive, even in low concentrations, it 
shouldn't hurt other plants.

Chris
www.hort.net
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