Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) is a hardy perennial plant that can become invasive in gardens and landscapes. Known for its bright yellow button-like flowers and fern-like foliage, tansy can spread rapidly, crowding out native plants. If you’re dealing with a tansy infestation, controlling its growth is essential to maintaining a healthy garden or lawn. Fortunately, the right herbicide can effectively control this weed, preventing it from taking over your space.

Best Herbicides for Tansy

1. Roundup Concentrate Plus

Roundup Concentrate Plus is a non-selective, systemic herbicide that has been widely used to control weeds like tansy. Its active ingredient, glyphosate, is absorbed by the leaves and transported through the plant to kill it, including the roots.

This herbicide is effective in both residential and commercial settings. It works quickly and is best applied when tansy is actively growing, usually during the spring or early summer. However, caution should be used when applying, as it can also kill surrounding plants.

2. Garlon 4 Herbicide

Garlon 4 is an herbicide that contains triclopyr, which is particularly effective in controlling woody and broadleaf plants like tansy. It is absorbed through the foliage and travels through the plant to the roots, gradually killing the entire plant.

Garlon 4 is an excellent option for controlling tansy in larger, more established infestations. It is a selective herbicide, which means it will target the tansy without harming most other plants when applied correctly.

3. Crossbow Herbicide

Crossbow is a broad-spectrum herbicide that combines two active ingredients: triclopyr and 2,4-D. This combination makes Crossbow effective against both woody and broadleaf plants like tansy.

Crossbow is highly effective at controlling established tansy plants, especially those in large patches. It should be applied during the growing season for the best results. As with all non-selective herbicides, be cautious not to get it on desirable plants.

4. Milestone Herbicide

Milestone contains the active ingredient aminopyralid, which is effective in controlling broadleaf weeds like tansy. Milestone is a selective herbicide, meaning it can target specific weeds without harming desirable plants.

Milestone is effective when applied to tansy during its active growth period, typically in the spring or early summer. It is especially beneficial in pastures, rangelands, and grasslands where tansy can be a major problem.

5. Tordon RTU Herbicide

Tordon RTU is a ready-to-use herbicide that contains picloram, a potent active ingredient effective in controlling difficult weeds like tansy. Tordon RTU is absorbed through the plant’s foliage and kills the plant by moving to its roots.

This herbicide is highly effective for smaller infestations of tansy and can be used in various settings, including rangelands and pasturelands. Tordon RTU is non-selective, so it should only be applied directly to the target plant.

6. Escort XP Herbicide

Escort XP is a selective herbicide containing the active ingredient metsulfuron-methyl, which is effective against broadleaf weeds like tansy. It is absorbed by the leaves and moves throughout the plant to kill it, including the root system.

Escort XP is ideal for use in pastures and rangelands and works well in controlling tansy infestations without harming surrounding grasses. It is most effective when applied in the early spring or fall.

7. 2,4-D Herbicide

2,4-D is a broadleaf herbicide that targets weeds like tansy by disrupting their growth. It is selective, so it will not harm most grass species, making it suitable for use in lawns, pastures, and rangelands.

2,4-D is best applied during the early spring or fall when tansy is actively growing. It is effective for controlling both young and established plants.

8. Chlorsulfuron Herbicide

Chlorsulfuron is a selective herbicide that is effective against broadleaf weeds like tansy. It works by inhibiting protein synthesis in the plant, causing it to die.

Chlorsulfuron is an excellent option for controlling tansy in areas where you want to preserve desirable vegetation. Apply it during the active growing season for the best results.

9. Garlon 3A Herbicide

Garlon 3A is another formulation of triclopyr that is effective for controlling broadleaf weeds like tansy. It is especially useful for spot treatments and smaller infestations.

Garlon 3A is ideal for homeowners and land managers who need to control tansy without affecting surrounding vegetation. It is most effective when applied during the active growing season.

10. Pathfinder II Herbicide

Pathfinder II contains triclopyr and is effective in controlling woody and broadleaf weeds like tansy. It is a low-odor, oil-based herbicide that is applied directly to the foliage of the plant.

Pathfinder II is effective in controlling smaller tansy infestations, especially in areas where you want to preserve surrounding vegetation.

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Herbicide for Tansy

When selecting the best herbicide for tansy, several factors should be considered to ensure effective control:

1. Herbicide Type

Systemic herbicides, such as Roundup and Garlon 4, are often the most effective for tansy control because they target the entire plant, including the roots. Non-systemic herbicides like 2,4-D and Escort XP may also be useful but can sometimes require multiple applications.

2. Selectivity

Selective herbicides are preferred if you want to avoid damaging desirable plants. Products like Milestone, Escort XP, and 2,4-D are all selective herbicides that target broadleaf weeds like tansy but leave grasses and other desirable plants unharmed.

3. Timing of Application

Herbicides are most effective when applied during the active growing season of tansy, typically in the spring or early summer. Some herbicides work best when applied before the plant flowers, while others are effective after flowering.

4. Environmental Impact

Consider the potential environmental impact of the herbicide. Non-selective herbicides, like Roundup and Crossbow, can kill surrounding vegetation, so they should be used with care. Opt for herbicides with lower toxicity if you’re concerned about the impact on the environment.

5. Cost

The cost of herbicides varies widely, so consider your budget when choosing a product. More concentrated herbicides may be more expensive upfront, but they may offer better value in the long run due to their effectiveness and longer-lasting results.

Conclusion

Controlling tansy requires the right herbicide and proper application. Whether you choose a systemic or selective herbicide, make sure to apply it at the right time for the best results. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damage to desirable plants and minimize environmental impact. With the right herbicide, you can successfully control tansy and restore your landscape.