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To get rid of Peruvian lily, you need a multi-step approach that tackles both the plant and its persistent underground rhizomes.
If you’ve been battling this beautiful but aggressive flower, you know it doesn’t give up easily.
Peruvian lily, also known as Alstroemeria, spreads rapidly through its root system, making simple pulling ineffective.
Getting rid of Peruvian lily for good requires persistence, the right tools, and a solid strategy.
In this post, we’ll explore why this plant is so tough, the best methods to remove it, and how to keep it from coming back.
Let’s dig into how to get rid of Peruvian lily once and for all.
Why Getting Rid of Peruvian Lily Is So Challenging
The main challenge with getting rid of Peruvian lily lies in its underground network.
Each plant produces dozens of fleshy, white rhizomes that can travel several feet from the main clump.
If you leave even a small piece of rhizome behind, it will sprout into a new plant.
That’s why just digging up the visible top growth rarely solves the problem.
To get rid of Peruvian lily effectively, you must target the entire root system.
Understanding this growth habit is the first step to winning the battle.
1. The Rhizome Problem
When you try to get rid of Peruvian lily by pulling, the stems usually break off at ground level.
This leaves the rhizomes untouched and ready to regrow.
These rhizomes are brittle and snap easily, which makes complete removal tricky.
Even small fragments can remain dormant for months before resprouting.
So, getting rid of Peruvian lily demands that you dig carefully and sift through the soil.
2. Seed Dispersal Adds to the Headache
Peruvian lily also produces seed pods that burst open and scatter seeds nearby.
While rhizomes are the main culprit, seeds can create new plants far from the original patch.
To get rid of Peruvian lily thoroughly, you need to remove flowers before they set seed.
This prevents new plants from establishing while you work on the root system.
Pro tip: Use a plastic bag over the seed heads to catch any falling seeds as you cut them.
Best Methods to Get Rid of Peruvian Lily
Now that you understand the enemy, let’s talk about the actual removal techniques.
There’s no magic bullet, but a combination of these methods will get rid of Peruvian lily reliably.
1. Digging Deep and Sifting Soil
The most effective way to get rid of Peruvian lily is manual digging.
Wait until the soil is moist, as dry soil makes rhizomes break apart more easily.
Use a garden fork to loosen the soil around the entire clump, not just directly under the stems.
Then, gently lift the whole root mass and shake off the soil.
Now comes the tedious part: sift through the soil with your hands to find and remove every piece of rhizome.
This method takes time, but it’s the only way to get rid of Peruvian lily without chemicals.
Extra tip: Do this in late summer or early fall when the rhizomes are storing energy and are easier to spot.
2. Smothering with Cardboard and Mulch
If you have a large patch and don’t mind waiting, smothering can get rid of Peruvian lily over time.
Start by cutting all the foliage down to the ground and removing it.
Lay down a thick layer of cardboard, overlapping the edges by at least six inches.
Wet the cardboard thoroughly, then pile on four to six inches of mulch.
The lack of sunlight will eventually starve the rhizomes.
However, this method requires patience as getting rid of Peruvian lily this way can take a full growing season.
Warning: Any rhizomes that escape the cardboard edge will send up new shoots.
Check the edges monthly and pull any escapees.
3. Using a Non-Selective Herbicide
For stubborn infestations, a targeted herbicide can help get rid of Peruvian lily.
Choose a product containing glyphosate and apply it to the foliage in late spring or early summer.
The plant will absorb the chemical and transport it down to the rhizomes.
You’ll need to repeat the application after about three weeks for the best results.
Important: Use this method carefully as glyphosate can harm nearby desirable plants.
To protect your garden, cover adjacent plants with plastic sheeting or cardboard before spraying.
Herbicides are a powerful tool, but they should be your last resort when learning how to get rid of Peruvian lily.
Preventative Steps to Keep Peruvian Lily From Coming Back
Getting rid of Peruvian lily is only half the battle; keeping it away is the other half.
Once you’ve removed the plant, you need to monitor the area for regrowth.
Here’s how you can stay ahead of it.
1. Regular Monitoring and Patching
Check the spot every two to three weeks during the growing season.
Any new shoots that appear are signs that a rhizome fragment survived.
Dig these out immediately, tracing them down to the root.
The sooner you catch them, the easier it is to get rid of Peruvian lily regrowth.
Helpful habit: Keep a small trowel and gloves near the garden so you can act quickly.
2. Solarizing the Soil
If you’ve cleared a patch and want to be extra sure, solarization can finish the job.
After digging, water the area, then cover it with clear plastic sheeting.
Tuck the edges into the soil to keep heat in and leave it for four to six weeks in hot weather.
The heat will cook any remaining rhizome pieces and seeds.
This method is highly effective but only works during peak summer temperatures.
3. Planting Competitive Ground Cover
Once you’re confident the Peruvian lily is gone, dense ground cover can prevent its return.
Aggressive but manageable plants like creeping thyme or clover will fill the space quickly.
This reduces the chance of any missed rhizome finding room to sprout.
It also makes the area look intentional rather than bare.
Just remember: You must be certain you’ve gotten rid of Peruvian lily before planting, or you’ll have a mixed mess.
So, How to Get Rid of Peruvian Lily for Good?
Getting rid of Peruvian lily is a process that combines patience, thorough digging, and consistent monitoring.
There’s no quick fix, but if you follow the methods we’ve covered, success is within reach.
Start with manual removal, consider smothering for larger patches, and use herbicides only as a last resort.
After the plant is gone, keep a close eye on the area and take preventative steps.
The key to getting rid of Peruvian lily successfully is never letting your guard down during the first season.
Recheck often, remove any survivors immediately, and you’ll eventually reclaim your garden.
With persistence, you can enjoy a Peruvian lily-free landscape.
Now you have a clear plan, so grab your tools and get started.
Your garden will thank you for the effort.