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Controlling Weeds

Weed are a constant problem for every gardener. Horticulture expert Dr. Lelia Kelly talks about how to keep them under control. The first thing you should do when putting in a new bed is get rid of all the existing vegetation. You can use a broad spectrum herbicide or tilling. Dr. Kelly then uses a pre-emerge to reduce the number of weeds by interfering with germination.

Cultural control can reduce the number of weeds you have. You don’t want to disturb the soil unnecessarily or over irrigate because it will cause more weed seeds to germinate. Mulch is a deterrent to the weeds to keep them from sprouting and growing. Mulch also has other benefits as well. Eliminating plants before they go to seed will reduce the number of seeds available to germinate the next year.

Mechanical control can get rid of the weeds that have sprouted. Hand pulling or using a hoe will get rid of the weeds that did germinate. You will have to do this on a regular basis as there will be weeds that grow despite your best efforts.

Chemical control can be divided into two groups: pre-emergent and post-emergent. For every chemical you must read and follow the label, it is the law. Pre-emergent herbicides keep the weed seed from growing if they germinate. Pre-emergents need to be applied at the right time to be in place when the weeds germinate. Your local extension office can tell you when that is for your area. Post-emergent herbicides kill plants that have already germinated. You need to be careful that you don’t get any on desirable plants.

Related Resources:
Weed Identification Photos
Weeds
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  • Home
  • Watch
    • TV Schedule
    • Full Episodes Online
    • How-to and Informational
    • Questions and Answers
    • This Week in the Garden
    • Garden Notes
  • Garden Topic Collections
    • Apple Trees: How-to and Information
    • Peach Trees: How-to and Information
    • Tomatoes: How-to and Information
    • Square Foot Garden Blog
  • Resources
    • Soil Testing
    • Extension Publications
    • Gardening Resources
    • Blogs
    • Organic Gardening
    • Articles
    • Privacy
  • Guests
  • Contact Us
    • Ask a Gardening Gardening Question
  • Search