Question
Dear Tom,
 We bought a house in south Louisiana and have a courtyard with a garden around the edges. The previous owners lined it with cast iron plants which I would like to remove to give a little more variety and color to the garden. On my first venture out, I ended up cutting the leaves back just to see the stems. I was able to remove a few rhizomes but most are planted right up against the house and almost impossible to get to. I'm doing small sections at a time. After cutting the leaves back and struggling to get the roots out, I ended up spraying weed killer on the remaining stalks. Is there a better way to clear the Cast Iron Plants out?
Thanks,
Monica

Answer
Hi Monica,
Thanx for your question.  After you cut the plants down to the ground.  Apply Roundup directly into the open cuts and apply liberally.  It may take several applications but Roundup will kill the plants and the chemical biodegrades rather rapidly.  I hope this helps.
Tom