Weed seeds can lay dormant under the soil for years. [2] X Research source Hoeing or tilling in weed prone areas may inadvertently bring up dormant weed seeds in the process. [3] X Research source Many plants need an exposure to sunlight to germinate. Cultivating at night reduces the chance that weeds will germinate.
Amine salt is a good solution for killing weeds and can be combined with water in a spray bottle for easier application. [4] X Research source Borax is another, more caustic solution to killing weeds in small cracks. Make sure to use gloves when handling it. [5] X Research source
Keeping your lawn fertilized will promote healthy growth for all plants on your lawn or garden bed. [6] X Research source Reseeding lawns in the fall will promote healthy grass growth next season because many weeds die late in the fall, and the grass seeds will have less to compete with. [7] X Research source
Spread the mulch 2 to 4 inches deep to retain moisture and to stop weed growth. Organic mulches like hardwood mulch, shredded bark, pine needles and straw degrade over a couple of months and can provide additional nutrition to your soil. [9] X Research source Another mulching technique is to turn the soil, water it, allow weeds to spout, then stake down a heavy black tarpaulin over the area. The black color of the tarp causes the ground beneath to heat up in the sun and kills the weeds. After a couple of weeks the ground will be sterilized.
Weeds are easier to pull when the soil is moist. A single dandelion can create 15,000 seeds in a single year, which may lead to additional weeds in your garden. Pull or sever the weeds when they’re young before they can create more seeds. [11] X Research source
If you do not have weed growth, refrain from tilling or hoeing your garden or lawn, as this can activate dormant weed seeds under the soil.
Applying a chemical solution to your garden should be the last resort as it can pollute groundwater and can be bad for the environment. [14] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Weeds can be broken up into three classifications known as broad-leaves, grasses, and sedges and their life cycle can be annual, biennial, or perennial. [15] X Research source
Some herbicides may pose a threat to other plants, so make sure to read the warnings before applying anything in your garden or lawn. You should also determine if the herbicide is made for weed prevention, or for killing weeds once they are grown.
Tyvek and nitrile gloves are the best material to use when handling herbicide and can be bought in hardware stores or online. [17] X Research source
You can visit a local cooperative extension if you have additional questions about applying herbicide to your garden or lawn, or having trouble choosing the correct chemical for the types of weeds that you have. [18] X Trustworthy Source National Pesticide Information Center Organization run by Oregon State University providing objective, science-based information about pests and pesticides Go to source
