No single action will eliminate the problem. The first step is to use desirable plants to put as much competitive pressure as possible on the morning glory by taking essential nutrients and water away from it. Turf grass is an especially strong competitor. Promote healthy and vigorous growth of desirable plants through proper watering, fertilizer application, disease prevention and insect control. When properly managed, most ornamentals and garden plants can have some suppressing or choking effect on the weed.
Herbicides play an important role in morning glory management.
However, if not used in conjunction with pressure from desirable plants, the effects are usually short lived. Systemic herbicides such as Roundup, 2,4-D and dicamba are more effective than digging and pulling because they kill the roots. When combined with herbicides or competition from desirable plants, mulches can help reduce morning glory. They are especially effective in controlling seedlings and are a valuable tool in addressing the problem of long-lived seeds in the soil. 1-5 p.m. Free.