Aster volunteer plants may look harmless at first, but they can quickly become an aggressive and persistent problem in gardens, lawns, and landscaped areas. Homeowners and growers searching for how to get rid of Aster volunteer often discover that simple pulling is rarely enough for long-term control.

These self-seeding plants spread rapidly through wind-dispersed seeds and underground regrowth, making them difficult to eliminate without a structured strategy. Understanding the best methods of how to get rid of Aster volunteer is essential for protecting turf quality, ornamental beds, and crop productivity.

According to weed management studies, unmanaged volunteer broadleaf plants can reduce usable garden space by up to 30–45% within two growing seasons. This is why choosing targeted, proven, and repeatable control methods is critical for lasting results.

In this guide. you’ll discover the 10 best methods of how to get rid of Aster volunteer, reviewed in a product-style format to help you choose the most effective solution for your specific environment, infestation size, and long-term weed control goals.

10 Best Methods Of  How To Get Rid Of Aster Volunteer

1. Manual Root Extraction – Fiskars Garden Tools – Best For Small Infestations

For gardeners seeking precise control, manual root extraction is one of the most reliable ways to remove Aster volunteer plants completely. This method focuses on removing the entire root system to prevent regrowth. It is especially effective when soil moisture is high, allowing roots to slide out cleanly.

 

This approach uses hand tools such as the Fiskars Ergo Weeder, designed to reach deep taproots without disturbing nearby plants. By targeting individual Aster volunteers, gardeners maintain full control over which plants are removed. This makes it ideal for ornamental beds and mixed plantings.

Repeated success depends on timing and consistency, especially before seed formation. When performed correctly, this method can reduce Aster volunteer recurrence by up to 70% in one season. It remains a top choice for eco-conscious gardeners.

Pros

• Chemical-free

• Precise removal

• Eco-safe

• Immediate results

• Soil-friendly

• Budget-friendly

• Selective control

Cons

• Labor intensive

• Time consuming

• Limited scale

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2. Heavy Mulching Suppression – Scotts Nature Scapes – Best For Seed Prevention

For gardeners seeking long-term suppression, heavy mulching is a powerful method to block Aster volunteer seed germination. This approach prevents sunlight from reaching seeds, stopping growth before it begins. It also improves soil structure while controlling weeds.

 

Products like Scotts Nature Scapes Mulch create a dense barrier when applied at 3–5 inches deep. This layer deprives Aster volunteer seedlings of light while retaining soil moisture. It works best after existing plants are removed.

Studies show that thick organic mulch can reduce weed emergence by up to 85%. When combined with other methods, it becomes a cornerstone of sustainable weed management.

Pros

• Preventive control

• Soil enrichment

• Moisture retention

• Long-lasting

• Natural solution

• Low maintenance

• Improves aesthetics

Cons

• Not curative

• Needs reapplication

• Material cost

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3. Repeated Cutting Method – BLACK+DECKER Trimmers – Best For Border Areas

For gardeners seeking non-chemical suppression, repeated cutting weakens Aster volunteer plants over time. This method deprives roots of energy by stopping photosynthesis repeatedly. It is most effective when done consistently.

 

Using tools like the BLACK+DECKER String Trimmer, plants are cut at ground level every 10–14 days. Over time, stored root energy is exhausted. This leads to gradual plant death without chemicals.

While slower, this technique is reliable for unmanaged edges and walkways. Consistent cutting can reduce plant vigor by over 60% within one growing season.

Pros

• No chemicals

• Safe nearby plants

• Easy tools

• Affordable

• Reusable method

• Low skill

• Lawn-friendly

Cons

• Slow results

• Requires persistence

• Regrowth risk

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4. Landscape Fabric Smothering – Dewitt Weed Barrier – Best For Large Beds

For gardeners seeking long-term control, landscape fabric creates a physical barrier against Aster volunteer growth. It blocks light while allowing water and nutrients to pass through. This makes it ideal for permanent beds.

 

The Dewitt Pro 5 Weed Barrier is widely used for heavy-duty suppression. Installed correctly, it prevents both seed germination and regrowth from missed roots. Mulch layered on top increases effectiveness.

This method is proven to suppress weeds for 3–5 years with minimal maintenance. It’s best suited for areas not frequently replanted.

Pros

• Long-lasting

• Low maintenance

• High suppression

• Durable material

• Prevents reseeding

• Professional-grade

• Reliable coverage

Cons

• Installation effort

• Reduced flexibility

• Initial cost

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5. Soil Solarization – Husky Plastic Sheeting – Best For Severe Infestations

For gardeners seeking total reset solutions, soil solarization eliminates Aster volunteer seeds and roots using heat. This method uses trapped solar energy to sterilize soil layers. It is chemical-free and highly effective.

 

Clear plastic like Husky 6-mil Sheeting is placed over moist soil for 4–6 weeks. Temperatures rise high enough to kill weed seeds and roots. This is ideal before replanting.

Research shows solarization can reduce weed seed banks by up to 90%. It works best in hot, sunny climates.

Pros

• Chemical-free

• Deep control

• Seed destruction

• Proven method

• Soil reset

• High success

• Eco-friendly

Cons

• Weather dependent

• Time intensive

• Temporary downtime

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6. Selective Broadleaf Herbicide – Ortho WeedClear – Best For Lawns

For homeowners seeking lawn-safe control, selective herbicides target Aster volunteer without harming grass. These products disrupt growth hormones in broadleaf plants. They are fast-acting and effective.

 

Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer is formulated specifically for turf environments. Applied during active growth, it delivers visible results within days. It is ideal for widespread lawn infestations.

According to manufacturer data, proper application achieves up to 95% weed control. It remains one of the most efficient lawn solutions.

Pros

• Lawn-safe

• Fast action

• Targeted control

• High efficacy

• Easy application

• Readily available

• Proven results

Cons

• Chemical use

• Drift risk

• Reapplication needed

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7. Vinegar-Based Burn Down – Green Gobbler – Best For Hardscapes

For gardeners seeking fast knockdown, vinegar-based solutions burn Aster volunteer foliage on contact. This method dehydrates plant tissue rapidly. It is best for non-plant areas.

 

Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar delivers visible wilting within hours. It is effective on young plants and exposed roots. However, it does not penetrate deeply.

This method is ideal for driveways and cracks where regrowth is manageable. Multiple applications improve results.

Pros

• Fast results

• Non-synthetic

• Easy access

• Spot control

• No residue

• Simple use

• Affordable

Cons

• Non-selective

• Short-term

• Root survival

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8. Boiling Water Treatment – Electric Kettle Method – Best For Isolated Plants

For gardeners seeking instant elimination, boiling water kills Aster volunteer plants on contact. This thermal shock destroys plant cells immediately. It is simple and accessible.

 

Using an electric kettle, water is poured directly on the plant crown. This method works best for single plants or cracks. It avoids chemical exposure.

While effective, it does not prevent reseeding nearby. Precision is essential.

Pros

• Immediate kill

• Zero chemicals

• Low cost

• Easy access

• Safe disposal

• Fast action

• Minimal tools

Cons

• Limited area

• Regrowth possible

• Splash risk

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9. Competitive Planting – Proven Winners – Best For Long-Term Prevention

For gardeners seeking natural balance, competitive planting suppresses Aster volunteer growth. Dense planting limits space, light, and nutrients. This prevents seed establishment.

 

Using vigorous groundcovers from Proven Winners, gardeners create living barriers. These plants outcompete volunteers naturally. It enhances garden appearance.

Long-term studies show dense planting reduces weed emergence by up to 65%. It works best as a prevention strategy.

Pros

• Natural control

• Sustainable

• Attractive

• Preventive

• Soil health

• Low chemical

• Long-term

Cons

• Slow impact

• Planning required

• Space dependent

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10. Seed Head Removal – Corona Pruners – Best For Spread Control

For gardeners seeking prevention, removing seed heads stops Aster volunteer reproduction. This method limits future infestations. It is simple and effective.

 

Using Corona Bypass Pruners, flowers are removed before seed maturity. This drastically reduces wind-dispersed spread. Timing is critical.

Preventing seeding can reduce next-season growth by over 80%. It complements all other methods.

Pros

• Preventive

• Low effort

• Immediate impact

• Budget-friendly

• Simple tools

• Effective timing

• Sustainable

Cons

• Not curative

• Requires vigilance

• Labor repetition

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FAQs – How To Get Rid Of Aster Volunteer

1. What is the fastest way to get rid of Aster volunteer?

Selective herbicides and vinegar-based treatments offer the fastest visible results.

2. Can Aster volunteer grow back after removal?

Yes, if roots or seeds remain in the soil.

3. Is Aster volunteer harmful to lawns?

Yes, it competes with grass and reduces turf density.

4. Are organic methods effective?

Yes, when combined and applied consistently.

5. When should Aster volunteer be removed?

Early growth stages before flowering are ideal.

6. Does mulching stop Aster volunteer completely?

Mulch prevents germination but does not kill mature plants.

7. What is the best long-term solution?

Combining root removal, prevention, and competition works best.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best method for how to get rid of Aster volunteer depends on infestation size, location, and long-term goals. Manual root extraction stands out as the best option for precision and eco-safety.

For larger areas, landscape fabric earns the runner-up position due to its durability and long-term suppression. Lawn infestations benefit most from selective herbicides applied correctly.

Preventive strategies such as mulching and seed removal are essential for lasting success. Without prevention, even the strongest removal method can fail.

Combining multiple approaches delivers the highest control rates. Studies consistently show integrated methods outperform single-solution strategies.

Take action today by selecting the method that fits your environment and commitment level. Start now to protect your lawn and garden from recurring Aster volunteer infestations.