How to Kill Trumpet Creepers

Remove your trumpet creeper in early spring or late autumn, when moist soils ease the task of root removal but while the plant is still actively growing. Wear gloves and protective clothing. Exposure to trumpet creeper can cause contact dermatitis.

Prune the growing stems in manageable sections with the pruning shears. Place the pruned parts in plastic trash bags.

Putting on a facemask and goggles prevents glyphosate fumes from reaching your lungs or eyes. Add the herbicide to a lidded container or plastic squeeze bottle. Put it with the paintbrush or sponge on a plastic trash bag for spill protection. Have it ready for immediate use after cutting the main trunk.

Use the pruning saw or branch loppers to cut the trumpet creeper's main trunk off near the soil line.

Wet the paintbrush or sponge with herbicide from the lidded container. Coat the trunk's cut surface. Alternatively, squeeze herbicide from the plastic bottle onto the cut surface. Delaying this step significantly decreases the glyphosate's effectiveness.

Examine your yard for trumpet creeper shoots. The vine sprouts from root, seeds or wherever it touches the soil. Its roots spread for several feet in every direction. Remove sprouting plants with the spade. Use the tiller to break up as many remaining roots as possible.

Dispose of the plastic bags of pruned trumpet creeper material where their contents won't expose anyone to dermatitis.

Use the sprayer in late summer or early fall to apply glyphosate to new trumpet creeper growth when its foliage fully opens. The leaves should be shiny after application but not dripping. Protect surrounding grass and desirable plants from overspray with plastic sheeting. Repeat spraying as necessary. Complete trumpet creeper eradication may take a year or more.