Good Morning,

Control of the chameleon plant can be very difficult, depending on its location. Digging up the root system and removing foliage are certainly options for control and will weaken the root system over time, but it could take a very long time. The use of landscape fabric plus mulch to deprive the plant of sunlight may work in certain situations on a small scale, however, any holes in the fabric for the desired plant may offer an avenue for emergence. There are no selective herbicides that will kill this plant and not affect desirable broadleaf plants. Depending on how interspersed it is, how big the area is, and how large of a nuisance it is, it may be possible to spot treating with a herbicide such as glyphosate (Roundup Weed and Grass Killer, amongst others). Products containing glyphosate will injure other plants contacted during application (i.e. green tissue, damaged/green bark, exposed roots). Multiple applications may be necessary for complete control. Glyphosate does not have activity in the soil, so once you are satisfied with your level of control it is safe to replant desired species.

You may want to start now since it appears you have quite a bit.  However, in the fall plants are drawing carbohydrates down into their root systems for winter, to be used to produce new leaves next spring. They will pull a herbicide down into their roots the most efficiently at this time of year.

Remember, always read and follow labeled directions.

I hope this helps.  Thanks for using our service.