Knowledgebase

Stinging Nettle #930438

Asked May 03, 2026, 12:24 PM EDT

how do i get rid of stinking nettle? I have tried Round Up, vinigar, cover with a black contractors bag, pulling by hand. Nothing is working. It is now spreading to other garden spots on the other side of the yard.

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Fertilize heavily and treat it with Roundup a couple of days later. The young leaves are more susceptible to weed killer. The growth spurt also stresses the plant. To go even further cover it with cardboard and cover the cardboard with black plastic. Exclude light for a full year. The nettles may have dropped a lot of seed that is sprouting. Eradication usually takes 3 or 4 years of effort. Each year there should be less of the nettles. 
Evelyn Locke, MN Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor, Volunteer Replied May 03, 2026, 7:12 PM EDT

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