How to Remove Horsetail
- 1). Dig out the entire plant from the soil, along with its root, if the infestation is small. Although labor- and time-intensive, this method reduces chances of regrowth. Grab the main stem of the plant firmly and pull it so it slides out of the soil easily. Moisten the surrounding soil lightly, if necessary, and loosen the plant with a hand trowel.
- 2). Cut the horsetail weed in spring using a brush hog, a hand-held cutting tool or a lawn mower, depending on the size of the infestation. Cut the plant off at soil level. Repeat the procedure every time signs of regrowth appear. Repeatedly cutting the plants before the buds develop prevents the spores from spreading and weakens the underlying plant.
- 3). Spread a thick plastic sheet or impermeable landscape fabric over the plants to block their access to light. Overlap the edges by several inches to prevent any light from filtering through. Inspect the edges of the covered area frequently for stubborn new sprouts that may grow through.
- 4). Apply a vinegar-based spray over the plant to kill it. These sprays easily penetrate the weed's outer sheath, but won't damage nearby plants. Cut or puncture the plant so spray can easily react with the plant.
- 5). Spray the area with a glyphosate herbicide to eradicate the noxious weed. Pour the concentrate into a pump sprayer with the required amount of water and douse the plants completely. Use three to four quarts per acre. Inspect the area after three or four days and repeat the application over stubborn plants if necessary.
Source...