We spoke with Anna Ohler, owner of Bright Lane Gardens, based in Michigan to get some advice. Anna explains, “Weeds love freshly disturbed soil, so try to avoid unnecessary tilling and always mulch right after planting.”
Weed Barriers and Landscape Fabrics
An effective practice for controlling weeds is the selective use of landscape fabric, also referred to as weed blocker. This material is available in rolls of varying lengths and thicknesses. While it’s not the best solution for all applications, installing weed barriers makes sense for pathways and beneath gravel or stone walkways. It can also be effective in permanent and raised beds. When used appropriately, it slows or eliminates roots climbing to the surface. Proper installation is essential for effective weed control. Begin by removing any large roots or clumps. Lay sheets of weed blocker down over the soil, overlapping the edges by several inches. Weeds will find opportunity in any gaps in the barrier, so review it with a critical eye. Thoroughly anchor the edges and along the seams. Cut out holes for your plants and apply a thick layer of mulch on top of the weed paper to further block weed growth.
To effectively battle your enemies, you first understand them. Just like other plants in the garden, weeds can act as annuals or perennials. Some grow in shade, while many thrive in sunlight. Then there is the matter of how they propagate. While select weeds crawl across the ground, others spread seeds far and wide with the help of wind, birds, mowers, and shoes. Still others move underground, sending runners to establish their territory. One trait most weeds share is their robust nature, which can turn them from a mild nuisance into an invasion with little warning. Long before you see them, nature is working beneath the surface, preparing for weeds to launch. In the spring, as roots establish and soil temperatures reach optimal levels, weeds are at their peak. This is why it’s essential to stop them early in the season before they begin to spread.
Soil Preparation
Strategic Planting to Crowd out Weeds
Preparing the soil for your summer garden starts as soon as the ground is workable in most areas. While you’re busy amending compacted soil and balancing pH levels, you may not even realize you’re prepping for weed control, too. Adding organic matter and optimizing your nutrient base creates strong plants that will outcompete weeds. In other words, focus on healthy plants, and weed control will begin organically.
Weeds are opportunistic. Bare soil receives optimal sunlight and the perfect landing spot for windborne seeds, inviting weeds to establish a home. Anna told us, “When it comes to summer weeds, the biggest shift I encourage my clients to make is moving away from constant spraying and pulling (and focus on prevention). Weeds thrive where soil is bare, disturbed, or stressed. The more you can cover the ground and support healthy soil, the fewer weeds you’ll deal with over time.”
While you work the soil, however, minimize disruption by lightly incorporating amendments.
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