Getting Rid of Himalayan Balsam
By Kennyg
Kent,
United Kingdom 
I’d appreciate any advice on how to get rid of Himalayan Balsam in the back garden of a house we recently bought. It’s situated about 50ft away from the back of our house, covering an area I’d estimate at 35ft x 85ft, sloping down to a very small stream (more of a storm drain than a stream but nevertheless it's water which runs at the bottom of several rear gardens in our street). At the other side of the stream is farmland and an orchard. Photo attached.
From what I’ve read, it’s best to cut the plants to ground level before June when they begin to flower. Trouble is we’re at the end of September so should I still cut them to ground level, or try to pull them out completely, or get them sprayed, or what? Also I’m unsure as to whether or not I can put the dead plants out with my normal garden rubbish or if they have to be disposed of separately?
Any advice welcomed.
Thanks.
29 Sep, 2008
Answers
If you google Himalayan Balsam there is good advice from the RHS - second entry on the list.
2 Oct, 2008
Previous question
« Hi Richard, your plant looks like my chocolate vine but I'm not plant smart...
I've managed to more or less get rid of my infestation in an overgrown mill culvert. If possible pull out seedlings as soon as you see them. They're usually easy to pull out. Failing that cut off the flowers before they set seed. Only trouble with that is they put out new flowers. Pulling up is the best way, and can be done later when they're in flower. It gives you a better grip to pull on!
29 Sep, 2008