Weed Control in Asian Jasmine Without Damage

NE Texas homeowner: Asian jasmine on slope infiltrated with dewberry, St. Augustine, clover after heavy rains prevented weeding. Husband considers replacing with concrete.

Organic Approach (Preferred)

Heavy rains likely drowned soil microbes. Sugar (4-5 lbs/1,000 sq ft) restarts microbial activity. Compost introduces microbes if absent. Earthworms indicate healthy biology. Rich soil suppresses clover; dewberry may persist; St. Augustine unaffected.

St. Augustine Removal

New shoots have shallow roots—grab runners and pull. Install metal edging around jasmine bed to block future encroachment.

Chemical Options (If Not Going Organic)

• Grass-selective herbicides: Kill grasses (St. Augustine) without harming broadleaves (jasmine, clover, dewberry)
• WipeOut (Green Light): Paint on broadleaf weeds (dewberry) with 1:1-2 water mix. Avoid spray/drift on jasmine. Absorbs through leaves to taproot. Bag treated foliage to protect wildlife.

Recommendation

Try organic restart first—sugar + compost. Mechanical St. Augustine removal + edging. Chemicals only if organic fails. Organic program reduces long-term maintenance 90%.