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Don’t Let Weeds Succeed: Try These Organic Methods

I think we all look forward to a distinct spring season paired with plentiful rainfall to awash our city in green. Unfortunately, that usually results in fast growing weeds up to our knees!

Organic weed control is one of the safest ways to remove and prevent undesired plants. Here are a few suggestions for tackling the oodles of unwanted plant life:

  • Pull weeds by hand or with a weeding tool, making sure to pull from the bottom of the plant to remove the roots. Aim to remove weeds before they develop seeds.
  • Apply an organic herbicide such as 20 percent vinegar mixed with orange oil. This is a non-selective herbicide so be careful not to spray the plants you want to keep.
  • Apply a permeable fabric weed barrier to new beds – before laying down a 3- to 4-inch layer of mulch – to prevent or slow weed growth.
  • Broadcast corn gluten meal in early spring before weed seeds germinate. Seek the advice of your local nursery expert for specific guidelines regarding the application of this natural pre-emergent.

propane-fueled weeding tool to destroy the weed and its seed is another option. Of course, it’s imperative to exercise extreme caution near dry or flammable materials. Regardless of which method you try, have patience. Persistence does pay off – even when tackling weeds.

Picture of Erin Conant
Erin Conant
Erin Conant has a passion for all things related to plants. Our former SAWS conservation consultant is now at home with her family passionately establishing their own urban farm and spreading the word of water conservation.
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