How To Get Rid Of Asiatic Jasmine Ground Cover (And Why You Might Want To)

You may have heard of the old garden adage "One man's weed is another man's flower," especially if you like to grow your yard wild, either because you want to bring more pollinators to the yard or simply for aesthetics. Yet not every flower or plant that grows in your area is good to have around, as many of these plants could overstay their welcome when they affect other plants. For example, Asiatic jasmine (Trachelsperma asiaticum) ground cover may seem pretty when on the ground bordering a lawn, but it can quickly take over a space. Asiatic jasmine is a popular ornamental plant due to its drought and deer resistance, yet it can quickly become a nuisance for gardeners. If it's already in your garden or yard, you should consider getting rid of it, either by cutting it back, digging it up, or pulling it out altogether.

As its name indicates, Asiatic jasmine isn't native to the United States. Hardy in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 10 it's not considered invasive, but it is unruly. Some landscapers may choose it because it's an easy-to-grow ground cover that suppresses weeds growing, yet it can also suppress other plant growth. Blooming in spring and summer, it is characterized by yellowish star-shaped flowers and dark green leaves in thick, dense mats on the ground. However, it's not content to stay on the ground and may climb fences and cover sidewalks while it quickly becomes invasive and takes over your lawn. If you spot Asiatic jasmine on your property and want to remove it, there are a few things you should know before you try to simply remove it.

Eliminating Asiatic jasmine is no easy feat, as it's a plant that prefers to stick around for a long time. While Asiatic jasmine doesn't grow from seed, it can spread very quickly once a root touches the ground. This is a tenacious plant, and cutting it back once simply isn't enough. You will have to cut it to the ground several times to make sure you sufficiently tame it. You can also pull it out or dig it up by the roots, but be prepared to spend some time removing it all. While mowing for control can assist in the plant's management over time, it can also stimulate root production during the process. 

While following various weed-removal hacks is best for Asiatic jasmine and other invasive, unwanted plants, your best bet is to do it the old-fashioned way with a shovel or trowel. Focus on digging up as much of the ground cover as possible while you remove stems and leaves to help cut off its nutrition. If you must use herbicide, make sure you apply it carefully only to the affected area with only a gentle spray.