How to Control Crown Vetch in Junipers

Crown vetch (Coronilla varia), is a prolific clover-like ground cover introduced to North America for erosion control along roadsides and river banks. Unfortunately, it often escapes and becomes a nuisance in the home landscape. Especially vexing is when crown vetch invades stands of shrubbery, such as juniper. Control of crown vetch in juniper is not difficult, but it takes care and persistence to completely eradicate it.

• 1

  Cut crown vetch out of the juniper with hand pruners. If there is space under your shrubs, mow with a lawn mower. Do this after the plants are leafed out in late spring.

• 2

  Pull the crown vetch from the soil directly beneath your junipers.

• 3

  Apply 2 inches of mulch to the base of your shrubs to help prevent crown vetch seeds from germinating.

• 4

  Apply weed killer to the remaining crown vetch according to label instructions. Be careful not to over-spray onto the juniper needles or on other desirable plants. Use a piece of scrap cardboard to prevent over-spray.

• 5

  Cut back vines as they turn brown and dry up. This allows new growth to come through.

• 6

  Reapply weed killer to fresh leaves throughout the season as the crown vetch tries to make a comeback.

• 7

  Pull vines from their roots at the end of the season. Always bag crown vetch waste and put out for collection so you don't spread the seeds to other parts of the garden.

• 8

  Repeat the process the following spring until the crown vetch fails to reappear.