Keep creeping bellflower out of lawns, gardens

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 01/06/2021 (1073 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

If you’re like me, this spring could not come soon enough. Every year I look forward to getting outside and enjoying more time in the sun. Spring also means the return of yard work and gardening.

The COVID-19 pandemic has allowed us to re-examine how we use our yards, and many residents are adding more flowers and vegetables to their gardens. If you have been puttering outside lately, you may have noticed a new pointy-leaf plant popping up in your lawn, flower beds or even on pathways around the neighbourhood. Creeping bellflower is invading Winnipeg yards and has quickly established itself throughout the city.

Known botanically as Campanula rapunculoides, this invasive weed spreads extremely quickly and can take over lawns and gardens in just a season or two if not removed or controlled.

Invasive weeds like creeping bellflower choke out native plants and wreak havoc on flower beds or vegetable gardens.

You can easily recognize creeping bellflower by its distinct, pointed leaves and the tall purple flowers that bloom in the summer. On walks around our neighbourhood, you may also notice it on pathways, boulevards and in some parks. If you have noticed it creeping into your yard, there are solutions to control, remove and prevent this invasive plant: in your yard:

• Dig down — Creeping bellflower spreads easily by large, tubular roots below the ground. It also spreads by dropping seeds from the bright, purple blooms. Use a trowel to dig and remove the plant with as many of the roots as possible. If you see a plant blooming, remove the blooms to prevent seeding.

• Smother it — The plant thrives in almost all conditions, but cannot grow without light and water. If you have a large patch, cover it with cardboard or a thick layer of mulch for the summer and remove anything remaining in the fall.

• Patch your lawn — After removing patches of creeping bellflower, or to prevent it from spreading into your lawn, overseed with soil and grass seed to thicken your grass. A thicker, healthier lawn prevents all types of weeds from taking root.

• Herbicide treatments — Speak with a lawn professional about herbicides that will kill and control creeping bellflower. There are multiple options on the market that are both environmentally friendly and effective.

With a little patience and elbow grease, it is possible to keep this invasive weed out of your yard.

I hope you are having a safe and enjoyable start to spring — happy gardening!

Daniel Guenther is president of the Garden City Residents’ Association and a community correspondent for his neighbourhood. Email him at: gardencitywinnipeg@gmail.com