Wisteria is beautiful. Until it takes over your entire garden. It climbs, it spreads, and it’s tough to get rid of. Regular weed killers often don’t cut it. You need something strong. This guide reviews the best herbicides for tackling wisteria, offering solutions to reclaim your yard.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Compare-N-Save Concentrate Grass and Weed Killer: Best overall, glyphosate-based, broad-spectrum control.
- Ortho GroundClear Vegetation Killer Concentrate2: Kills wisteria and prevents regrowth for up to a year.
- Roundup Weed and Grass Killer Concentrate Plus: Reliable glyphosate formula for established wisteria.
- Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D Weed Killer: Selective herbicide, targets wisteria without harming grasses.
- Monterey Brush and Vine Killer: Triclopyr-based, effective on woody vines like wisteria.
Top 5 Best Herbicide To Kill Wisteria Reviews
1. Compare-N-Save Concentrate Grass and Weed Killer
This is a glyphosate-based herbicide. It’s designed to kill almost any plant it touches. It works by inhibiting an enzyme essential for plant growth. Compare-N-Save is a concentrated formula. You mix it with water. This lets you customize the strength for different situations. It’s a solid choice for total vegetation control.
Pros:
- ✅ Broad-spectrum control kills almost any plant.
- ✅ Concentrated formula offers great value.
- ✅ Effective on established wisteria plants.
Cons:
- ❌ Non-selective, so it will kill desired plants.
- ❌ Requires careful application to avoid drift.
- ❌ May need multiple applications for mature wisteria.
Verdict: Best overall for complete vegetation control, but use with caution around desirable plants. It is suitable for large infestations where collateral damage isn’t a concern.
2. Ortho GroundClear Vegetation Killer Concentrate2
Ortho GroundClear offers both kill and prevention. It contains imazapyr. This stops wisteria from regrowing for up to a year. It penetrates deep into the soil. That creates a barrier that prevents new weeds from sprouting. This is a great option if you want long-term control.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides long-lasting control, preventing regrowth.
- ✅ Kills existing wisteria quickly and effectively.
- ✅ One application can last up to 1 year.
Cons:
- ❌ Can sterilize the soil, preventing anything from growing.
- ❌ Not suitable for use near desired plants.
- ❌ Strong chemicals may persist in the environment.
Verdict: Ideal for areas where you want complete and lasting vegetation control, like gravel paths or fence lines. Be careful where you use it. It can prevent anything from growing for a long time.
3. Roundup Weed and Grass Killer Concentrate Plus
Roundup is a well-known name in weed control. The “Plus” version contains glyphosate. It works by stopping a key enzyme that plants need to grow. It’s effective on a wide range of weeds and grasses, including wisteria. The concentrate allows you to mix the solution to the strength that you need.
Pros:
- ✅ Reliable and effective glyphosate formula.
- ✅ Broad-spectrum control kills many types of plants.
- ✅ Widely available and easy to find.
Cons:
- ❌ Non-selective, will kill any plant it contacts.
- ❌ Effectiveness can be reduced by rain shortly after application.
- ❌ Some wisteria may require multiple treatments.
Verdict: A dependable choice for general weed control, but be mindful of overspray. Use on wisteria when you want to quickly eliminate it without concern for nearby plants.
4. Southern Ag Amine 2,4-D Weed Killer
This herbicide uses 2,4-D, a selective herbicide. It targets broadleaf weeds. It leaves grasses unharmed. This makes it ideal for areas where you want to kill wisteria without harming your lawn. It’s absorbed by the leaves and translocated throughout the plant. That ensures thorough control.
Pros:
- ✅ Selective formula targets wisteria, not grasses.
- ✅ Effective on broadleaf weeds.
- ✅ Can be used in lawns and pastures.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as effective on mature or woody wisteria.
- ❌ Can drift and harm desirable broadleaf plants.
- ❌ Requires careful application to avoid harming nearby plants.
Verdict: Best for controlling wisteria in grassy areas. However, take care to prevent drift to flower beds or vegetable gardens.
5. Monterey Brush and Vine Killer
Monterey Brush and Vine Killer contains triclopyr. It is designed specifically for tough woody plants. This includes wisteria, poison ivy, and blackberries. It works by disrupting the plant’s growth hormones. This leads to complete plant death. It’s effective even on mature, established vines.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent for controlling woody vines and brush.
- ✅ Triclopyr is very effective on wisteria.
- ✅ Can be used as a cut-stump treatment.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be harmful to nearby trees if applied improperly.
- ❌ May require multiple applications for complete control.
- ❌ Not suitable for use on lawns.
Verdict: A great choice for serious wisteria infestations, especially on woody vines and stumps. Apply with precision to avoid harming other plants.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right herbicide can feel overwhelming. Here’s what to consider.
- Identify the Wisteria Type: Is it a young vine or an established plant? Mature wisteria needs stronger herbicides.
- Consider the Location: Is the wisteria growing near other plants you want to keep? If so, use a selective herbicide.
- Read the Label: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Pay attention to safety precautions.
- Think About Application: Do you prefer a spray, a concentrate, or a ready-to-use product?
- Check the Ingredients: Glyphosate, 2,4-D, and triclopyr are common active ingredients. Each works differently.
- Assess Your Soil: Some herbicides can affect soil. Consider the long-term impact on your garden.
- Safety First: Wear protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection when applying herbicides.
I remember one time I didn’t wear gloves. My hands felt weird for days. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort to protect yourself.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about killing wisteria.
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Q: How do I kill wisteria permanently?
A: Use a strong herbicide like Ortho GroundClear. Cut the vine and apply the herbicide to the stump. Monitor for regrowth and repeat as needed.
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Q: Can I use vinegar to kill wisteria?
A: Vinegar may work on young seedlings. It’s not effective on established wisteria. You need a stronger herbicide.
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Q: What is the best time of year to apply herbicide to wisteria?
A: Fall is often the best time. The plant is drawing nutrients down to its roots. This helps the herbicide spread throughout the plant.
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Q: How often should I apply herbicide to wisteria?
A: Follow the product label. Usually, you need to reapply every few weeks until the wisteria is completely dead.
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Q: Is glyphosate safe to use?
A: Glyphosate is widely used. Some studies suggest potential health risks. Always use it according to the label instructions. Wear protective gear.
Conclusion
Killing wisteria can be a challenge. But with the right herbicide, it’s definitely possible. Consider the severity of the infestation. Also, think about the surrounding plants. Choose an herbicide that fits your needs. Always follow the instructions. With patience and persistence, you can reclaim your garden.
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