Expert: Greg Simpson - 6/24/2006

Question
I have a problem some sort of clover growing around the base of
my barrel cactus. The cactus is planted in a rocked bed and no
other plants are around it. I was wondering if you know what I
could do to get rid of the clover.  

Answer
Dear Rondi,

The easiest way to remove it would be to water the soil around the cactus, or wait until you get some rain. The pull the weed out roots and all (wetting the soil will make it much easier to pull out). If you have tried this already, then get some weed killer (Round Up for example) and spray it only on the weed. If you get it on the cactus it will at a minimum, damage it.

If you pull it out, you can purchase a "pre-emergence" weed killer that will keep weed seeds from germinating. Use that once you have removed the weed. Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg