[jameshuk]

Hi Guys,

I took over an allotment in December and it was completely overgrown. I am running seriously behind now thanks to be over run with couch grass..... is there anyway to remove/kill this quickly. Ideally I would want to do this organically.... am guessing you are going to tell me to start digging?!?!?!

Thanks in advance

[Scribbler]

Start digging. Sorry.

Also, stick all the bits of root in a bucket of water and let them go manky. This way they won't get back into the soil and sprout again, and you derive satisfaction, however grim, about how much you've removed. After a few weeks I think you can use this as a feed.

And you can plant as you clear, so all is not lost.

[digby]

One of the old boys on our allotment site suggested growing tomatoes, apparently there is something in the roots that the couch grass doesn't like. I think you'd end up with an awful lot of tomato sauce though to treat the whole plot.

[noshed]

Glyphosate would help

[diggerjoe]

I am still digging it up on mine so far I am averaging three buckets full of roots a weekend I get OH to pick it up and take to local tip. PLot is 2/3rd clear now - so keep digging its hell on the back but but so satisfying to see how much you can clear - next door plot just turned his over and is going to roundup the whole plot. I reckon i'll need to put a barrier up else the stuff will creep back over to me :x

[jameshuk]

Thanks guys! Oh well.... the digging will help me lose a few pounds I guess!!

Will try keeping them in water and make my feed.

Thanks again,

James

[Aidy]

One of the old boys on our allotment site suggested growing tomatoes, apparently there is something in the roots that the couch grass doesn't like. I think you'd end up with an awful lot of tomato sauce though to treat the whole plot.

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, it dont work. tried it last year and it over ran my toms, dig it out, every last bit, the bits you cant get to put some weed fabric over to stop it growing until you get there. Glyphosphate is good but question the organic bit.

[Scribbler]

Is there an empty plot in the corner by the road, nearest to Henley?

[wellingtons]

... with couch grass coming in from next door, and this time of the years is the best time to try and get it out.  The ground is still damp and it's not growing like billy-o.

It's a hands and knees job though, but oh so satisfying when you've done a few feet.

[jameshuk]

Is there an empty plot in the corner by the road, nearest to Henley?

Not the very end one in the corner that is mine(!)... the one next to it is though by the looks of it.

[digby]

One of the old boys on our allotment site suggested growing tomatoes, apparently there is something in the roots that the couch grass doesn't like. I think you'd end up with an awful lot of tomato sauce though to treat the whole plot.

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, it dont work. tried it last year and it over ran my toms, dig it out, every last bit, the bits you cant get to put some weed fabric over to stop it growing until you get there. Glyphosphate is good but question the organic bit.

Oh well, I wasn't going to try it anyway - always grow tomatoes in pots in the back garden!