I planted peppermint in my garden several years ago. I watched
as it spread and devoured most of the other plants, and set out to kill the
peppermint. Peppermint is an invasive root hog, and I tried vinegar, salt, and
other methods. However, I did find one that worked quickly and killed the peppermint.
What is the best way to kill peppermint? Use Roundup. I
worked as an accountant in Monsanto’s Agricultural division for 6 years. One of
my tasks was to account for Roundup, from the raw material to the finished
good. I learned about Roundup. Despite the claims of toxicity, Roundup is safe
to use as directed, does not live in the soil, and will kill peppermint.
When using Roundup, wear garden gloves to protect against
minor drips. I usually wear sweatpants, but not always long sleeves. Don’t use
the spray when it is windy to avoid spray transfer to other garden plants. Wash
your hands well. I usually change my clothes after because I tend to get some
Roundup on my shirt and long pants.
Since the peppermint in my garden surrounds other plants, I
use the pump with a directed spray. I point the sprayer downward, focused on
the outer edge of the plant growth. Peppermint has an intricate root system, so
photosynthesis will transfer the plant killing chemicals of the Roundup to the
root system.
The picture above shows the peppermint surrounding Black-eyed
Susans. Notice that the outer portion of the peppermint is dying. The Roundup
will continue to work in the root system, but will not kill the Black-eyed
Susans. I use Roundup throughout my garden, around Russian Sage, Day Lilies,
and other plants.
Get rid of the peppermint in one summer using Roundup. It’s
a safe, sure way to stop the peppermint invasion.
