Russian vine - how to safely compost it

Discussion in 'Compost, Fertilisers & Recycling' started by Sian in Belgium, Jul 7, 2025.

  1. Sian in Belgium

    Sian in Belgium Total Gardener

    Joined:
    Apr 8, 2011
    Messages:
    3,099
    Location:
    Just south of Brussels
    Ratings:
    +9,642
    Many years ago, the neighbours planted a Russian vine. I think they have removed it from their garden, but it invaded my parents garden, and I am desperate to get on top of it, and hopefully eradicate it over time.
    We are pulling it out of the Lawson cyprus tree, and also out of the retaining wall. The thick woody stems, many 2 inches in diameter, we will burn. Is it safe to put the thin woody stems, and green growth in the compost pile? I am hoping to mow it, to shred it, beforehand. However I do not want to be doing a mass stem-cutting propagation experiment!!
     
  2. Obelix-Vendée

    Obelix-Vendée Total Gardener

    Joined:
    Mar 13, 2024
    Messages:
    3,093
    Gender:
    Female
    Occupation:
    Retired
    Location:
    Vendée, France.
    Ratings:
    +9,397
    If you can leave it to dry out for a weak or two to dry out before you compost it you will reduce any liklihood of this monster regrowing.
     
    • Like Like x 1
    • Agree Agree x 1
    • Sian in Belgium

      Sian in Belgium Total Gardener

      Joined:
      Apr 8, 2011
      Messages:
      3,099
      Location:
      Just south of Brussels
      Ratings:
      +9,642
      Thank you! We can just about do that - it’s 10 days before we return to Belgium, so we’ll mowitjust before we leave…
       
    • pete

      pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

      Joined:
      Jan 9, 2005
      Messages:
      56,452
      Gender:
      Male
      Occupation:
      Retired
      Location:
      Mid Kent
      Ratings:
      +110,180
      I dont think its known for growing from small pieces, maybe the roots are but not the top growth.
      However its not something I have ever grown so cant say for certain.

      If you shred it first I doubt it will be a problem.
       
      • Like Like x 1
      • Agree Agree x 1
      • Philippa

        Philippa Gardener

        Joined:
        Aug 3, 2019
        Messages:
        1,225
        Location:
        West Somerset
        Ratings:
        +2,513
        Remove any roots and shred the rest - it shouldn't then be a problem in the compost heap/box.
         
        • Like Like x 1
        Loading...

        Share This Page

        1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
          By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
          Dismiss Notice