How to deal with Docks!

I'm definitely not an expert but when we bought our fields it was (and in many places still is) dock heaven. Docks are extremely resilient. We use Roseate spray (you can either buy the concentrate or buy Resolva but that's more expensive) - but you have to treat them when the docks are big enough but not too big (i.e. flowering). You should also spray when its dry and warm. You're best using an additive in the weedkiller to 'stick' it to the leaves and a weed wiper (to help stop dripping onto and killing the grass). We have 9 acres of these hideous weeds and its a hard job going round doing this by hand! You can also dig them out but that is really hard to do as the roots are massive. You will probably be left with bare patches but these can be re-seeded.
 
we are over-run by docks and nettles. my husband has his chemical licence so I have bought a stronger weedkiller that is selective. so it wont kill the grass as well, or we would have none left! can't remember the name right now. there are a few types that wont kill the grass but should kill the docks. Should of really done it earlier in the year, but time flew by. But after topping they are growing back so should take the weed killer, as clearly still actively growing.
 
pippixox said:
we are over-run by docks and nettles. my husband has his chemical licence so I have bought a stronger weedkiller that is selective. so it wont kill the grass as well, or we would have none left! can't remember the name right now. there are a few types that wont kill the grass but should kill the docks. Should of really done it earlier in the year, but time flew by. But after topping they are growing back so should take the weed killer, as clearly still actively growing.
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Is it Round-up but the strong version not the shop version? I think this is what we use (but can't swear to it!) whatever it is only kills broadleaf plants and is ok to keep the horses in the field. It's good but as above don't think the general public can purchase.
 
poiuytrewq said:
Is it Round-up but the strong version not the shop version? I think this is what we use (but can't swear to it!) whatever it is only kills broadleaf plants and is ok to keep the horses in the field. It's good but as above don't think the general public can purchase.
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Roundup will kill your grass so be very careful if you use it.
 
Docks need to be sprayed before end of May. You will know if they will take the weed killer down if the stalks are still a bit sticky, when stalks are dry it doesn't do a good job. Any that I miss I cut before they dry there seed and make more for next year. I used all sorts of weed killer including round up and pastor and after asking advice on here for a weed killer for docks, nettles, thistles etc Faracat recommended Headland Polo and it is really excellent and can still be bought easily on the Internet.
 
As an alternative to sprays if fencing and logistics allow-sheep eat docks. Good luck getting rid, we've just taken on a new farm and approx 40% of 150 acres is covered in docks. We're spraying and ploughing up, then re-seeding with a break crop but if it's horse paddocks then selective sprays done by licensed operator followed by topping and or sheep.
 
I have a battery operated strimmer, one with a proper cord, not a silly little blade. It runs for about half an hour and most nights when I put the horses out I walk round strimming the seed heads off docks before they mature. When there are none, I strim the docks themselves. I started this last year and have half the docks this year and expect fewer again next year.

Previously I've used SBK and glyphosate but they always come back.
 
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