How do I remove a big bed of Pennywort weeds?

Vishal810

We have a big bed of these pennywort weeds likely interconnected. We do want to grow some plants in this area after, so not sure if we should apply strong chemicals that could damage the soil. At the same time, getting them out by hand seems like an inefficient exercise. I'm a beginner here, so if someone could please help with step-by-step instructions including what tools I would need, that would be helpful. I've only just started doing a bit of "gardening" and so far have focused on de-weeding, pruning, and readjusting the mulch layers in our garden bed. The tools I have with me so far from Bunnings are (thanks to Ellie @ Bunnings Moorabbin who is amazing):

• Hand weeder
• Metal rake
• Pruner
• Metal fork
• Weed scraper (for cracks in the patio)

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Vishal810. It’s great to have you join us and many thanks for your question about removing weeds.

With a large patch like this, you have a couple of options. If you’d prefer to avoid herbicides, use your garden fork to loosen the soil beneath the pennywort and lift it out in sections, removing as much of the underground root and runner system as possible. Try not to break the runners into lots of small pieces, as sections left behind can regrow. Once cleared, rake through the soil and remove any remaining roots, then keep an eye out for new shoots over the following weeks.

Alternatively, you could treat the area with a glyphosate-based weedkiller such as Roundup. Glyphosate is generally considered non-residual, so it doesn’t typically remain active in the soil in a way that prevents you from planting the area afterwards. You’ll still need to follow the product directions, including any recommended waiting period before planting.

If using a herbicide, make sure you follow the PPE requirements on the product label. I’d recommend gloves, protective eyewear, enclosed footwear and clothing that covers exposed skin, with any additional PPE specified by the manufacturer.

You already have most of the tools you’ll need for manual removal, although a larger garden fork or shovel could make tackling such a large area a little easier.

Here are a couple of helpful guides: How to remove weeds without harming your plants and How to remove weeds without harming your pets.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell