How to prevent weeds from overtaking my garden?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.To keep weeds from taking over the garden, we begin with preemptive management of soil. I've witnessed clients reducing weeding time by 70% when they utilize pre-emergent herbicides when the temperature of the soil is right for their region. I recommend applying those treatments when the die soil temperature reaches a temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit (13 degrees Celsius), generally when forsythia is blooming. Use 3 inches of organic mulch (shredded cedar does much better in gusty areas than straw). For gravel paths, put UV-stable landscape fabric down as an addition. A client in Arizona had zero weed breakthroughs for 3 years, using that method.
Organic Mulching Techniques
- Use cocoa shells for acidic soil gardens (avoid with pets)
- Replenish hardwood mulch annually to maintain 3-inch depth
- Layer cardboard under mulch for annual beds
Chemical-Free Weed Barriers
- Boiling water eliminates 90% of driveway cracks weeds
- Corn gluten meal blocks seed germination for 6 weeks
- Plant creeping thyme between pavers to crowd weeds
Strategies should be developed according to the regional needs. For example, in warm, humid climates, increased spacing, about 12 to 18 inches, between seedlings will promote better airflow and reduced fungal growth. A client in Florida related using our spacing recommendations she had reduced her powdery mildew by 50 percent using spacing with her drip irrigation system. Sandy soils require closer emitter spacing (8 instead of 18 inches for clay).
For pet owners, safety must come first. Rubberized mulch is a better option than cocoa mulch, especially as it relates to play areas. For example, I assisted a dog owner with her dog, after her Labrador developed rashes from regular bark. We changed the mulch to crushed pecan shells. Check soil pH every year. Many weeds like to be compacted and acidic and they prefer soil with a pH of 6.0 or less.
Read the full article: How to Prevent Weeds: 12 Expert-Backed Strategies
