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BOILING WATER ON WEEDS #872267

Asked June 09, 2024, 11:35 AM EDT

WE HAVE RECENTLY HEARD ABOUT USING BOILING WATER ON WEEDS. OUR QUESTION IS SPECIFICALLY ABOUT "WEED ORCHID". BECAUSE IT SPREADS VIA RISOMES, WILL I NEED TO THOROULY DRENCH THE AREA IN BOILING WATER?

Saginaw County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello Wayne

Boiling water acts by contact, so it will not kill the root of perennials like weedy orchid, Epipactis helleborine
The boiling water will also affect the foliage of whatever else it contacts around the weeds you treat.

“Boiling water: Some annual weeds can be killed if boiling water is poured directly on top of them. This works best when weeds are young, tender, and small. This method can help to suppress perennial weeds by killing off the top growth. It is not effective for permanently killing perennial root structures. This method can be used to control weeds in sidewalk or driveway cracks and crevices or other hardscapes, not in lawns or native or ornamental plant beds. Use caution when using this method for personal safety.”

More options and details on managing weeds can be found here

https://extension.umd.edu/resource/manage-weeds-without-chemicals-maryland/

Here is more on weedy orchid, and control options-

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/homeowners_battling_a_weedy_orchid_invading_lawns_and_flowerbeds

Again, please read and follow all directions and precautions on any product you use. Also if you try boiling water, be very cautious that nothing contacts  your skin,  your eyes, etc.; and pets, children are not in the area.

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