I'm absolutely sickened that our very big mixed shrub and perennial border has been invaded by a huge network of roots that keeps throwing up suckers .It turns out after some detective work it's due to several Tree of Heaven saplings that have been growing through the neighbours side if the huge beech hedge between us.Fortunately we get on very well and they are going to apply a systemic herbicide asap but unwittingly a lot of damage has already been done by them cutting down several of them.They didn't realise this is the worst possible thing to do as the tree responds by throwing out runners and suckers everywhere if you cut them before treating them.I hate any use of chemicals but it seems this is the only thing to do.
I spent hours yesterday pulling out as many as possible but were going to lose a considerable number of established plants as the root systems are so enmeshed with these runners covered in nodes ready to sprout.I even dreamt about triffid like plants last night !Has anyone else experienced this and can you reassure me it can be cleared.The problem is even if we dig out all the border getting any left under the hedge is impossible and I loathe to replant my border until I feel we've eradicated it.
Neither we not the neighbours had ever heard if this species before. Indeed they didn't even realise what they had growing in the hedge.They keep the garden very tidy but aren't plant people where's we are and have spent a lot of time -and money -on ours so I feel pretty despondent this morning as I've only tackled a fraction of the bed so far.
Another week, another Tory MP sex scandal!
What Would You Do in this Position?
