The other day I removed pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) and mugwort (Artemesia vulgaris) from the garden.

I left them in the wheelbarrow to dry out.

Once dry, and dead, I’ll add them to the compost pile.

There are many options to dry out invasive or hard to kill weeds. They can be placed on the driveway. They can also be bundled and hung from a tree. Another idea is on top of a stone wall or boulder.

Both weeds will regrow if put directly on the compost pile.

Better stated, mugwort and pokeweed are guaranteed to grow if placed directly on the compost pile, especially mugwort.

Mugwort and Pokeweed Roots

Mugwort has fine roots that break easily.

If you see mugwort remove it quickly and do your best to get all the roots.

Pokeweed has a deep tap root.

Use a spade to dig out the deep tap root or the plant will return.

Click for more information about mugwort (Artemesia vulgaris)and pokeweed (Phytolacca americana).