I cut the weed as close to the ground....I "dribble" a weed killer on the open cut stem...and yet it comes back.
Cut stem treatment is not as effective for thistle as spraying or painting the leafy tops for foliar absorption with a systemic herbicide.
You don't identify the type of thistle, describe the site, - pasture, lawn or planting beds or un-planted soil surface, and you don't state what herbicide you have been using.
To spray in a lawn area use an herbicide for broadleaf weed control like this: https://www.domyown.com/msds/SpeedZoneLawnWeedKillerConcentrate-SL_label.pdf
But the active ingredients will kill other broadleaf plants, so don't use near desirable plantings.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/weeds/canada-thistle-control.htm
I live in Phoenix, Arizona and noticed a something growing on the other side of my cement wall. When I went over to look, it was a HUGE cluster of weeds. My husband chopped them all down with a weed wacker but I'm pretty sure they are going to grow back. I want to keep them from growing into my yard under the wall. Can anyone recognize any of these weeds and give me a suggestion on getting rid of them permanently? I have Ficus Nitida on my side of the wall I don't want to hard.
Thistle, mallow and maybe another I'm not sure about.
It is doubtful that they will grow under the footing of a block wall. It's more likely that they will spread by wind blown seed. Keep an eye on your side of the wall for young weed growth, and dig or pull before they mature and go to seed in your yard.
If you have property owner permission on the other side where your husband cut, and you are competent with safe and effective use of pesticides, then you can use an "organic" or chemical herbicide (weed killer), general purpose or selective for "broadleaf" weeds.
http://www.saferbrand.com/safer-brand-fast-acting-weed-and-grass-killer-rtu-32-oz-5055-6
My yard is full of stickers and you can't walk bare foot on my grass what can I do to get my grass back ?
I think you may be referencing Sandburs.
This article will help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/weeds/controlling-sandbur-weeds.htm
What does our soil need in the garden? Lots of Canadian thistles are trying to grow, what does that mean? Is there a soil deficiency?
A little research shows that a deficiency of available phosphorus will encourage Canadian thistles.
Here's a good article for you: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/weeds/canada-thistle-control.htm
subject is Canadian Thistle
Make sure to follow all advice and recommended use for the product that will be found on the product label.
Additionally, certain areas have different procedures on when and how you can apply. Here is an article to help you find the local extension service nearest to you, as they can help you with local regulation:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/extension-search
Here is an article that will explain more on correct use of the product, and link you to fact sheets and more:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/weeds/glyphosate-information.htm
Hi So I sowed some blue thistle seeds about 2/3 weeks ago, some in a propagation tray and some direct sow where I want them to grow. Have started to see some tiny green leaves appearing in some. What do I do now! Didn’t expect them to show already. Will they survive the winter or should I protect them? Do they need watering now? Can the ones in the tray stay outside? Should I take the cover off the tray now, sorry so many questions They get sun and I’m zone 8 thanks guys. Sorry not photo but not much to see as it’s just tiny green leaves anyway
This is quite odd. They will require alternating cool and warm periods to germinate, though this could have been done prior to your receiving the seeds.
They like to be direct sown, since they grow a taproot. Plants with taproots to do not well when transplanted. You will likely see growth through the winter, but their best look will be achieved next year.
Here is an article that will help you to grow these care-free plants:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/sea-holly/sea-holly-flowers.htm
t the first plant and spoke to a nursery and think I may have overwatered it. I have since planted two more and am watering them less. I did read that newly planted globe thistles should be watered twice/wk for the first month. When I planted the second time, I added sand to the soil. I live in Richmond, VA and our soil has some clay in it. Also, when watering globe thistles, how do you best adjust when it rains? Thank you. I love globe thistles and would love for these new plants to thrive.
It sounds like thick soil has lead to overwatering. Generally, I wouldn't water these drought tolerant plants at all! They are well adapted to dry conditions, and will not thrive in wet soils.
Make sure to check the soil with a meter. Make sure that it is dry, down to about 3 or 4 inches, thoroughly. Once it is dry down to this depth, you can water enough to keep your other plants happy.
This article will help you to use a soil moisture meter:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-moisture-in-plants.htm
This article will help you to grow globe thistle:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/globe-thistle/growing-globe-thistle-plants.htm