- 1). Dig up any stray thistles with a spade. This step is not really viable if you have a large infestation of thistle weed but may help if you only have a couple. Cut off the top of the leaves with the spade and then dig up as much of the roots as you can. If there are flowers with stems on them, dispose immediately to prevent seed production.
- 2). Mow the remaining thistle plants as soon as they reach 4 to 6 inches long. Repeated mowings will keep the thistles from producing seed and reduce their spread.
- 3). Apply herbicide to the plant stubs. Research the herbicide before you buy it, as some may also kill grass or other plants surrounding your thistle. Certain herbicides also do better in specific conditions and geographical regions. Follow the label carefully during application.
- 4). Shade the plants if they grow back. Use a black tarp and pin it down with heavy stones. Leave the tarp in place for at least two weeks. The thistle needs sun to survive and will burn underneath the hot tarp. Unfortunately, this may also kill the grass surrounding your thistle, but in a gravel area this is a useful method.
- 5). Persevere in digging up plants that re-emerge and applying herbicide. Over time you will notice a decline of the thistle weed and eventually it will disappear.
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