Different weeds spread in different ways—some by deep taproots, others by bulbs or underground runners.
Some species (like hemlock or deadly nightshade) are toxic.
Knowing what you’re dealing with helps you choose the right removal method early.
The guide highlights frequent offenders, including:
Dandelion – yellow flowers, deep taproot
Stinging nettle – jagged, stinging leaves
Gorse – thorny, yellow blooms
Hemlock – tall, feathery, toxic
Couch grass – invasive underground runners
Chickweed, oxalis, bindweed, ivy, dock, thistle, mallow, wireweed, red dead nettle
*Notes that deadly nightshade is rare; black nightshade is more common.
Leaf shape and texture
Growth habit (crawling, climbing, mat-forming)
Flowers and seeds Root type (taproot vs rhizomes/bulbs)
Hand pulling (best for young weeds)
Mulching to block light
Boiling water or vinegar for paths
Smothering with cardboard or compost
Selective herbicides for broad
leaf weeds
Non‑selective sprays for hard surfaces
Always follow labels and avoid spraying near pollinators.
Regular inspections
Improve soil health
Rotate crops
Plant densely
Maintain clean edges
Aim for “a bucket of weeds a week” to stay ahead
We are a small team of qualified and experienced contractors operating since 2008. Since 2017 we are operating as Wellington landscaping Ltd, after outgrown being a sole trader under the All Sorts landscaping brand.
SANDOR@LANDSCAPINGWELLINGTONNORTH.CO.NZ
021 2695029
8 A Elliott Street, Johnsonville, Wellington, 6037
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