Ground Clear is a popular herbicide used to control weeds and unwanted vegetation in gardens, lawns, and other outdoor areas. However, many people are unsure about how long they need to wait after using Ground Clear before they can replant in the treated area.
The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the type of vegetation you want to grow and the specific Ground Clear product you used.
Understanding Ground Clear and how it works is essential to determine when you can plant in the treated area. Ground Clear is a non-selective herbicide that kills all vegetation it comes into contact with, including grass, weeds, and other plants.
The active ingredient in Ground Clear is glyphosate, which works by disrupting the plant’s ability to produce proteins, leading to its death. Glyphosate is a systemic herbicide, which means that it is absorbed by the plant and travels throughout its system, killing it from the roots up.
Key Takeaways
- The waiting period before replanting after using Ground Clear depends on several factors, including the type of vegetation you want to grow and the specific Ground Clear product you used.
- Ground Clear is a non-selective herbicide that kills all vegetation it comes into contact with, including grass, weeds, and other plants.
- Glyphosate, the active ingredient in Ground Clear, is a systemic herbicide that disrupts the plant’s ability to produce proteins, leading to its death.
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Understanding Ground Clear
Ground Clear is a herbicide manufactured by Ortho that is used to eliminate unwanted vegetation in gardens, lawns, and other outdoor areas. The product is designed to be a long-lasting solution for weed control, with some formulations claiming to prevent regrowth for up to a year.
Active Ingredients
Ground Clear contains two active ingredients: glyphosate and imazapyr. Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum herbicide that works by disrupting the production of certain proteins in plants, leading to their eventual death.
Imazapyr, on the other hand, is a selective herbicide that targets only certain types of plants, such as grasses and broadleaf weeds.
When used together, these two ingredients can provide a powerful solution for weed control, but they also require careful handling to ensure that they do not harm desirable plants or animals in the surrounding environment.
Planting After Using Ground Clear
One of the most common questions about Ground Clear is how long it takes to plant after using the product. According to the manufacturer, users should wait at least one year before planting in an area where Ground Clear has been applied.
This is because the herbicide can remain active in the soil for an extended period, potentially harming new plants that are introduced to the area.
However, some factors can influence how long it takes for the herbicide to break down in the soil. For example, in wet climates, the residual effects of Ground Clear may pass in 6-9 months, while in dry climates, it may take longer.
Additionally, the type of plants that are being grown can also affect how long it takes to plant after using Ground Clear. Young plants may be more susceptible to the poison, making control quicker and easier to achieve.
How Long After Using Ground Clear Can You Plant?
Ground Clear is a herbicide used to kill weeds and unwanted plants. It contains imazapyr and glyphosate, which are active ingredients that penetrate the plant’s system and kill it from the roots up.
Effect on Weeds
Ground Clear is effective in killing most types of weeds, including broadleaf weeds and dandelions. It works by inhibiting the plant’s ability to produce certain amino acids, which are essential for growth. The herbicide is absorbed by the plant and translocated throughout the entire system, killing the plant from the roots up.
Ground Clear is a systemic herbicide, which means it is absorbed by the plant and transported to all parts of the plant, including the roots. This makes it an effective solution for killing weeds that have deep roots.
Impact on Soil
Ground Clear has a residual effect on the soil, which means it remains active in the soil for a period of time after application. This can have an impact on future plant growth in the area.
If you plan to replant in an area where Ground Clear has been applied, it is important to wait until the herbicide has dissipated from the soil. According to the manufacturer, the residual effect can last up to one year. However, in very wet climates, the residual effects may pass in 6-9 months.
In addition, the manufacturer recommends completely removing the treated soil and replacing it with new soil if you want to plant sooner. This will ensure that there is no residual herbicide left in the soil that could affect future plant growth.
Application of Ground Clear
When using Ortho GroundClear, it is important to take safety measures and follow product usage instructions to ensure the best results.
Safety Measures
Before using GroundClear, it is important to read and follow all directions and warnings on the product label. The product should be used in a well-ventilated area and protective clothing, such as gloves and goggles, should be worn during application.
If the product comes into contact with skin or eyes, it should be immediately rinsed off with water. In case of ingestion, medical attention should be sought immediately. Pets and children should be kept away from the treated area until it has completely dried.
Product Usage
Ortho GroundClear is a concentrate that contains two herbicides, imazapyr and glyphosate, which work together to kill weeds and grasses. The product is absorbed by the plant, which circulates the poison throughout its system, killing it.
According to the product label, after spraying the treated area, it is recommended to wait at least 24 hours before planting anything in the area. This allows the product to fully dry and be absorbed by the plants.
It is important to note that the waiting period may vary depending on the type of plant that is to be planted. For example, some plants may require a longer waiting period before planting. In such cases, it is best to consult the product label or contact a gardening expert for advice.
Post Application Effects
On Desired Plants
After using Ortho Ground Clear, it is important to wait before planting any desired plants in the treated area. The vegetation killer concentrate can prevent anything from growing in the area for up to one year.
It is recommended to wait at least that long before planting in the treated area or completely remove the treated soil and replace it with new soil to plant sooner.
Different types of plants have different sensitivities to the residue left by Ortho Ground Clear. Trees, shrubs, and flowers are more sensitive to the herbicide, and it is recommended to wait at least one year before planting them in a treated area.
Grasses and vegetables are less sensitive and can be planted after three days, according to the manufacturer.
On Non-Target Areas
Ortho Ground Clear is a non-selective herbicide, meaning it kills any vegetation it comes into contact with. If the herbicide is sprayed on non-target areas, it can kill desirable plants and roots. It is important to take precautions when using the herbicide to avoid overspray and drift.
If non-target areas are accidentally sprayed with Ortho Ground Clear, it is recommended to remove the affected plants and soil and replace it with new soil before planting. The herbicide can leave residue in the soil, which can affect the growth of future plants.
Replanting After Ground Clear
1. Preparing the Area
When it comes to replanting after using ground clear, preparation is key. The first step is to remove any dead plant material and debris from the area. This can be done by raking or sweeping the area, or by using a leaf blower. It is important to remove as much material as possible to ensure that the new plants have access to the soil.
If the ground clear was applied to a large area, it may be necessary to till the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches. This will help to break up any compacted soil and ensure that the new plants have plenty of room to grow.
2. Choosing the Right Plants
When choosing plants to replant in an area where ground clear has been used, it is important to select plants that are tolerant of herbicides. Post-emergent herbicides like ground clear can remain in the soil for up to a year, so it is important to choose plants that can withstand exposure to these chemicals.
Some good options for replanting on bare ground include grasses, wildflowers, and groundcovers. These plants are typically hardy and can thrive in a variety of soil types and conditions. It is also a good idea to choose plants that have a strong root system, as this will help to prevent erosion and stabilize the soil.
3. New Soil and Planting Sooner
If you are looking to replant sooner than the recommended wait time, there are a few options. One option is to completely remove the treated soil and replace it with new soil. This can be a time-consuming and expensive process, but it will allow you to replant immediately.
Another option is to put new soil over top of the sprayed area. According to Domyown, you can replant in the treated area if you put new soil over top of the sprayed area. However, you will still need to wait the recommended time before planting directly in the treated soil.
Ground Clear and Pets
When it comes to using Ortho GroundClear Vegetation Killer Concentrate around pets, it is important to take precautions to ensure their safety. While this product is designed to kill unwanted vegetation, it can also be harmful to pets if not used properly.
According to GFL Outdoors, it is important to wait at least five to ten minutes after the ground has dried before allowing pets back into the treated area. This will help to minimize the risk of exposure to the product.
It is also worth noting that pets that like to eat grass or plants should not be allowed in the treated area, as ingestion of the product can be harmful.
If a pet does come into contact with Ortho GroundClear Vegetation Killer Concentrate, it is important to rinse them off immediately with water. If the pet has ingested the product, it is recommended to seek veterinary attention right away.
It is also important to note that the product can remain active in the soil for an extended period of time. According to DoMyOwn, it is not recommended to replant in an area where Ortho GroundClear Vegetation Killer Concentrate has been applied.
However, if one wants to replant in the area, they can put new soil over the top of the sprayed area to reduce the risk of exposure to the product.
Ground Clear in Different Locations
When using Ortho GroundClear Vegetation Killer Concentrate, it is important to know how long you should wait before planting in the treated area. The waiting period can vary depending on the location where the product was used.
Use in Lawns
When using Ortho GroundClear in a lawn, it is recommended to wait at least one year before planting any new vegetation in the treated area. This is because the product can prevent any growth in the area for up to a year. If you need to plant sooner, you will need to remove the treated soil and replace it with new soil.
Use on Patios and Driveways
When using Ortho GroundClear on patios and driveways, the waiting period is much shorter. You can plant in the treated area as soon as the product has dried. This usually takes about two hours.
However, it is important to note that the product can stain concrete and other surfaces, so it is recommended to use a watering can instead of a sprayer to apply the product.
Use on Sidewalks and Brick
When using Ortho GroundClear on sidewalks and brick, it is important to use caution. The product can stain these surfaces, so it is recommended to use a watering can instead of a sprayer to apply the product. Additionally, it is recommended to wait at least one year before planting in the treated area.
Moss Control
Ortho GroundClear can also be used to control moss growth. When using the product for this purpose, it is recommended to wait at least two weeks before planting in the treated area. This will give the product enough time to effectively control the moss growth.
Children and Ground Clear
When using Ortho GroundClear Vegetation Killer Concentrate, it is important to keep children away from the treated area. The product contains chemicals that can be harmful if ingested or inhaled.
To prevent accidental exposure, it is recommended to keep children and pets away from the treated area until the product has completely dried. Once the product has dried, it is safe for children and pets to enter the area.
It is also important to store the product in a safe place, out of the reach of children. The product should be stored in its original container, with the lid tightly closed.
In case of accidental exposure, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of exposure may include skin irritation, respiratory distress, and gastrointestinal distress.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I wait to plant after using a herbicide like GroundClear?
According to Domyown.com, Ortho GroundClear Vegetation Killer Concentrate can prevent anything from growing in the area for up to 1 year.
Therefore, it is recommended to wait for at least a year before planting in the treated area. If you want to plant sooner, you can completely remove the treated soil and replace it with new soil.
Is it safe to use Ortho Ground Clear around trees before planting?
While Ortho GroundClear Weed & Grass Killer is safe to use around trees, it is not recommended to use it on the soil where you plan to plant trees.
According to Ortho.com, the product is designed to kill all types of weeds and grasses, including tree seedlings. Therefore, it is best to avoid using it on the soil where you plan to plant trees.
How long does it take for GroundClear to dry before planting?
Ortho GroundClear Weed & Grass Killer is rainproof in 2 hours upon drying, according to Ortho.com. Therefore, it is recommended to wait for at least 2 hours before planting after using the product.
Can I plant grass after using GroundClear?
Ortho GroundClear Weed & Grass Killer is designed to kill all types of weeds and grasses, including grass seedlings. Therefore, it is not recommended to use it on the soil where you plan to plant grass. If you want to plant grass, it is best to avoid using the product on the soil where you plan to plant grass.
What’s the best way to neutralize herbicide in soil before planting?
According to Gardeningknowhow.com, the best way to neutralize herbicide in soil before planting is to remove the contaminated soil and replace it with new soil. If you cannot remove the contaminated soil, you can try to break down the herbicide by adding organic matter to the soil, such as compost or manure, and watering the soil to help the herbicide break down.
Does Roundup affect seed germination even after waiting to plant?
According to Gardeningknowhow.com, Roundup can affect seed germination even after waiting to plant. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid using Roundup on the soil where you plan to plant seeds. If you must use Roundup, it is best to wait for at least 3 days before planting seeds.
Hey, I’m Lisa and I’ve been an avid gardener for over 30 years. I love writing, talking and living in the garden! Feel free to connect with me on my socials below