Get Rid Of Wandering Jew: A Comprehensive Guide
Wandering jew, also known as tradescantia zebrina or spiderwort, is a common houseplant that can quickly become invasive if left unchecked. Its fast-growing nature and ability to propagate easily make it difficult to control once it takes hold. In this guide, we'll provide you with some practical tips and tricks to get rid of wandering jew and prevent it from taking over your home or garden.
Understanding Wandering Jew
Before we get into the methods of getting rid of wandering jew, it's important to understand the plant and its behavior. Wandering jew is a sprawling plant that is native to Mexico and Central America. It has long, trailing stems with oval-shaped leaves that come in shades of green and purple. The plant produces small, delicate flowers that are usually pink or white.
While wandering jew is often grown as a houseplant, it can also be found growing outdoors in warmer, humid climates. When it's grown outside, it can quickly take over gardens and other areas, choking out other plants and creating a dense, tangled mass of foliage.
Methods for Getting Rid of Wandering Jew
1. Hand Pulling
One of the simplest ways to get rid of wandering jew is to hand pull it. This method works best when the plant is young and hasn't had a chance to spread extensively. To hand pull wandering jew, simply grab the base of the stem and gently tug until it comes loose from the soil. Be sure to remove as much of the root system as possible to prevent regrowth.
2. Cutting Back
If the wandering jew has already spread extensively, hand pulling may not be enough. In this case, cutting back the plant can help to weaken it and make it easier to control. Use sharp pruning shears to cut the stems back to just above the soil line. Be sure to dispose of the cuttings in a sealed plastic bag to prevent reseeding.
3. Using Herbicides
If hand pulling and cutting back don't work, herbicides can be an effective way to kill wandering jew. There are several types of herbicides that can be used on this plant, including glyphosate and triclopyr. These chemicals work by disrupting the plant's ability to photosynthesize, which eventually kills it.
When using herbicides, always follow the instructions carefully and wear protective clothing, including gloves and a mask. Be sure to apply the herbicide only to the wandering jew and avoid getting it on other plants or in the soil.
4. Covering the Area with Mulch
Another option for controlling wandering jew is to cover the area where it's growing with mulch. This will prevent sunlight from reaching the plant and eventually kill it off. Be sure to use a thick layer of mulch, at least 4-6 inches deep, to ensure that the wandering jew is completely covered.
Keep in mind that this method may take several months to be effective, and it's important to keep the area covered until all signs of the wandering jew have disappeared.
Preventing Wandering Jew from Coming Back
While getting rid of wandering jew can be a challenge, preventing it from coming back is even more important. Here are some tips to help keep wandering jew under control:
1. Regularly Inspect Your Plants
Regularly inspect your plants for signs of wandering jew, especially if you've had it before. Look for small, new growth and remove it immediately before it has a chance to take root.
2. Keep the Area Clean
Wandering jew thrives in damp, humid environments, so keeping the area around your plants clean and dry can help to discourage its growth. Remove any fallen leaves or debris promptly and ensure that the soil is well-draining.
3. Monitor Watering Closely
Overwatering can create the perfect environment for wandering jew to thrive. Be sure to monitor your watering closely and avoid letting the soil stay too wet for too long.
4. Consider Alternative Plants
If you've had repeated issues with wandering jew, it may be time to consider alternative plants that are less invasive. Some good options include snake plants, succulents, and peace lilies.
Wandering jew can be a frustrating plant to deal with, but with some persistence and the right techniques, it can be controlled. Whether you choose to hand pull, cut back, use herbicides, or cover the area with mulch, be sure to follow the tips outlined in this guide to get the best results. And remember, prevention is key - taking steps to prevent wandering jew from coming back is just as important as getting rid of it in the first place.
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