GroundClear Works When Directions are Followed

Q: I have a big patch of weeds in the backyard that I have been fighting for years. I sprayed them with some weed killer and piled four inches of wood chips on top. They still came through. What do you think about using GroundClear? 

A: I think you should read the GroundClear label very carefully. GroundClear is a good product when used according to directions. However, it’s easy to go wrong, particularly with the warning not to use over the root zone of trees or shrubs. The roots of shrubs can be 2 to 5 times the width of their canopy. Tree roots can extend 1-2 times their height.

The chemical in GroundClear soaks several inches into the soil. If a shrub or tree has shallow roots in the area, the chemical can kill the shrub or tree. Do you have any shade trees in the backyard? The tiny feeder roots can extend 20 to 30 feet beyond the drip line. Similarly, for shrubs, your ancient azalea or prized fig could have roots 20 feet away.