Using Bleach and Vinegar to Kill Thistles

Banishing with Bleach

• 1

  Measure 1/2 cup of undiluted bleach for each thistle plant. This amount of bleach helps ensure that it reaches the thistle's roots.

• 2

  Pour 1/2 cup of bleach around the base of each thistle plant. This will be most effective when the thistle is actively growing from spring until fall. Also, rain should not be expected for at least one day.

• 3

  Cut back or pull the thistle from the ground once it dies back. Reapply the bleach if the thistle continues to grow or resprouts.

Vanishing with Vinegar

• 4

  Pour vinegar into a spray bottle. A concentrated solution that contains 10 to 20 percent acetic acid is much more effective than standard household vinegar, especially against older, established thistles.

• 5

  Cover nearby plants with boxes or shield them with cardboard so you do not overspray the vinegar onto desired plants. The vinegar can harm or kill them as well.

• 6

  Spray the vinegar directly on the foliage and stems of the thistle plants. Perform this task on a calm day when the thistle is actively growing from spring until fall, and when rain is not forecast for at least one day

• 7

  Pull the thistle from the ground or cut it back once it dies. Respray the thistle with the vinegar if it resprouts or continues to grow.