How to Get Rid of Ornithogalum

Also known as Star-of-Bethlehem, Ornithogalum umbellatum closely resembles wild garlic. A member of the lily family, Ornithogalum is a perennial plant that, like the lily, grows from a bulb. The bulb is highly toxic if ingested by humans and animals. Scientists have tested common herbicides on the plant, with varying rates of success. The only herbicide found to be somewhat effective is paraquat, which is highly toxic and classified as a “restricted use” herbicide, available only to licensed applicators. Hand pulling is the only way to ensure you are rid of Ornithogalum.

Things You'll Need

• Garden gloves
• Poacher’s spade

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Water the soil slowly and deeply -- at least 10 inches deep -- the day before you plan to remove the plants.

   • 2

     Grasp the Ornithogalum at its base, and gently tug to remove the bulb from the soil. Repeat with each Ornithogalum plant.

   • 3

     Use a poacher’s spade to dig out areas with multiple bulbs clumped together. This spade has a curved face with sharp edges, making it ideal for digging out clumps of bulbs.