The chelidonium, also known as great celandine, wartweed, goatweed, or rain-heal, is a plant that can become invasive in gardens. Many people wonder how to eliminate it. In this article, we will discuss various methods to get rid of chelidonium and repurpose it in different ways.
Manual Removal
To eliminate chelidonium, you can start by manually removing it from your garden. It is easier to do this on a rainy day when the soil is moist. Be sure to wear gloves to protect your skin from potential allergic reactions or irritations caused by the plant. It is best to remove chelidonium before it flowers and produces seeds to prevent further spread.
Eliminating a Carpet of Chelidonium
If your garden is already invaded by a carpet of chelidonium, you will need to take more serious measures. Alternatively, you can let the plant grow and use it as a ground cover instead of sowing grass. Another option is to mow it regularly. This will weaken the plant and hinder its spread.
Homemade Weed Control
Some gardeners use charcoal or wood ash as a natural herbicide to reduce chelidonium infestation. However, vinegar is not effective in combating this weed, and it may be harmful to your soil. It is best to avoid acidifying your soil unnecessarily.
Recycling Chelidonium
Chelidonium has medicinal uses and can be repurposed in different ways. It is commonly used to treat warts, rashes, eczema, and scabies. Chewing the fresh root can also help alleviate toothaches. If you prefer natural remedies, you can utilize this plant in various ways.
Another way to repurpose the herb is by creating a natural pesticide. In a 10-liter bucket, place 2.5 to 3 kg of finely chopped fresh herb or 400 to 500 g of dried herb. Fill the bucket with warm water and let it sit in a warm location for 2 days, stirring occasionally. Then, add about 40 g of soap. Strain the mixture and pour it into a spray bottle. This natural pesticide can be used to eliminate caterpillars on cabbage, Colorado potato beetles on potatoes, aphids, spider mites or thrips on plants, and caterpillars on fruit trees and berry bushes.
It is important to note that chelidonium should not be composted unless you have killed it beforehand. Both the seeds and roots can spread through composting and contribute to the plant's proliferation.
Hello! I'm Emma, a passionate writer and editor at The Daily Herald. With my love for words and knack for storytelling, I bring a unique flair to our team. One time, while brainstorming ideas for an article, I suddenly burst out laughing at a hilarious joke I came up with, leaving my colleagues in stitches. Working at The Daily Herald is truly an enriching experience where creativity knows no bounds.