Mulches For Weed Control
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Mulches For Weed Control
Weed-controlling mulches come in two forms- loose mulches such as shredded wood or bark mulch membranes, sheets of materials such as landscape fabric.
These can be synthetic or biodegradable. As with all areas of organic gardening the first choice should be the organic biodegradable material but for longer term low maintenance weed control synthetic material may be the most effective option. Living mulches - maybe ornamental permanent plantings of ground cover shrubs and or perennials. They can also be what is called ‘green manures’ or smother crops that are used to cover the ground temporarily to improve the soil. These can be clover, winter rye, or buckwheat. Living mulches are tough rapidly growing plants that compete well with weeds for food, water and light. These plants can also be used in between widely space crops or shrubs. Vigorous fast growing annuals such as candy tuft or sweet alyssum can be used in the same manner. Loose mulches – on weed free ground a loose organic mulch 4in or 10cm deep will provide effective weed control. Any weeds that do appear are easily removed. You can reduce the depth of the mulch needed hence the cost, by spreading it over a mulch membrane made of a landscaping fabric. This membrane is also effective at preventing gravel or similar materials from working into the soil. See loose mulch types for more detail. Mulch membranes – can be used to clear weeds from open grounds and beds as long as long as there are no woody weeds present. They are also can be used on grounds that have been cleared of weeds. Holes can be cut in the membrane for planting where appropriate. Mulch membranes are typically covered with loose mulch to hold them in place, extend their life span, and improve their appearance. A mulch membrane must be permeable to allow water into the soil, unless it is intended to be kept in place for only a few months. See membrane mulch types for more detail. These materials are far less harmful on the local ecosystems, people, and wildlife than the use of synthetic pesticides and should be strongly considered as an alternative way to deal with weeds.
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