Mechanical control, by repeated cutting or mowing, is effective for large stands, but plants can regrow if the lower parts are left intact. Cutting the plant below the lowest node can help stop regeneration. Access to the sides of riverbanks can be difficult and inaccessible stands can quickly recolonise accessible cleared areas, so vigilance is needed if an area is to be effectively cleared.
Smaller infestations can be easily controlled by hand-pulling, as the root of Himalayan balsam is very shallow. However, management should only take place if there are no visible seeds, as disturbing the seeds can lead to further infestation in the disturbed soil. If management must take place when seeds are present (typically in late May), place a bag over the top of the plant to avoid further dispersal. As the seeds are not very robust and only last about 18 months, management can be completed in two years as long as proper disposal has occurred and all plants have been removed.
Once plants are removed, they should be placed in a black garbage bag and placed on an impermeable surface for up to 1 week. This will kill off any viable materials before disposal.