Selective Honeysuckle Removal: The Glove-and-Sock Herbicide Method

Need to kill honeysuckle without harming your English ivy? This targeted application technique delivers herbicide precisely where needed.

The Technique

1. Wear a chemical-resistant rubber glove.
2. Pull an old cotton sock over the glove.
3. Spray the sock with glyphosate (Roundup, Killzall, etc.) until damp, not dripping.
4. Wipe the herbicide onto honeysuckle leaves only—avoid contact with ivy.

Why This Works

• Glyphosate translocates through the honeysuckle's vascular system, killing roots.
• No spray drift to damage desirable plants.
• Minimal herbicide used—environmentally responsible.
• Effective on woody vines with waxy leaves that resist foliar sprays.

Timing and Follow-Up

Apply in late summer/early fall when plants are translocating energy to roots. Re-treat any regrowth next season. For large infestations, cut vines first, then treat stumps.