Weeds rapidly colonize bare ground either created by development or when a garden or yard has fallen to neglect. At first there will probably be a mixture of annual and perennial weeds but the longer the land is neglected the more the perennials dominate. However daunting the task may look, overgrown land can be cleared with out the use of chemical herbicides, using one or a combination of the methods below.
Cutting down- weeds can be a quick short term solution to weed problems, preventing seeding and spreading. The most effective time to weaken the roots and avoid seeding is when flower buds are beginning to show. Scything is the most peaceful method and can be quick and effective. An electric or gas power trimmer is an alternative method. Digging or Forking- turning the ground over removing roots and weeds is relatively quick but physically challenging way to clear the ground. Breaking of the ground with a spade will ease the work, as will covering the ground with a mulch membrane for a few weeks. This method is effective for weeds with tap roots such as dandelions, docks. Never strip off the top layer of soil as you will be removing the most fertile soil from the area. Mechanical Cultivation- a rotary tiller is useful when clearing a large area of ground but has its drawbacks. It can be difficult to use if the ground is thick with perennial weeds and grasses. The tiller shreds the weeds which can lead to several other problems. Each portion of the root or rhizome may re-grow potentially increasing the problem. .It is also much more difficult and time consuming to dig out thousands of chopped up pieces ofroot as opposed to a whole plant. If you use this method it may be best to repeat several times. Clearing ground without digging- A light-excluding mulch membrane will stop weeds from growing and in time killing them.If you want to convert an area of lawn to a garden mulch it in the spring and it will clear by the autumn if not before. Mulching is most effective during the growing season. Grassing down- Where there is a severe perennial weed problem such as horsetail or bishop’s weed- plant grass by either sowing seed or laying turf.. Regular mowing for 2 or 3 years should solve the problem.
Weed Control Accessories offered by Gardeners Supply Company
