Moneycontrol News | August 12, 2024
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Maintaining a pristine garden requires effort, especially when it comes to managing weeds. These unwelcome guests can quickly overrun your carefully cultivated space, competing with your plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight
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The foundation of a weed-free garden lies in proper soil preparation. Weeds thrive in disturbed soil, so it is crucial to minimise soil disruption when planting
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Before you start gardening, ensure that the soil is well-prepared. Remove any existing weeds by pulling them out by the root. This will help prevent regrowth and make it easier to manage any new weeds that may appear
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Consider adding a layer of organic mulch to your garden beds. Mulch acts as a barrier, preventing weed seeds from germinating by blocking sunlight
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Organic options like wood chips, straw, or compost not only suppress weeds but also improve soil health by retaining moisture and adding nutrients as they decompose
Weed barriers are an effective way to prevent weeds from taking root in your garden. These barriers can be made from various materials, such as landscape fabric or even newspaper
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Place the barrier over the soil before planting, and then cut holes where you want your plants to grow. This method blocks sunlight, preventing weed seeds from germinating while allowing your desired plants to thrive
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It is essential to monitor the area regularly, as some determined weeds may find a way to grow through the smallest gaps. In such cases, promptly remove any weeds that manage to break through the barrier to maintain control
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Regular weeding is key to keeping them under control. The best time to weed is when the soil is moist, as it is easier to pull weeds out by the roots. Aim to weed your garden at least once a week, especially during the growing season, to prevent weeds from becoming established
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A dense planting scheme can help suppress weed growth by reducing the amount of space available for weeds to take root. When plants are spaced closely together, they create a natural canopy that shades the soil, making it difficult for weed seeds to germinate
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Choose plants that complement each other in growth habits, spacing requirements. Groundcovers, for example, are excellent for covering bare soil and preventing weeds from gaining a foothold. Similarly, interplanting vegetables and flowers can create a lush, weed-resistant garden
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When mowing, avoid cutting the grass too short, as this can weaken it and create openings for weeds. Aim to keep your lawn at a height of around 2.5 to 3 inches, which provides shade to the soil and inhibits weed seed germination