Get Rid of Weeds

So like everyone else you have weeds you want to ‘get rid of’ and here is how.

Physical Removal Methods

Hand weeding is used when weeds grow amongst other plants. Take care to get all the root or bits may grow back.
Hand forks work between other plants but for a larger area you need a proper fork. They are les effective for rhizomatous plant like couch grass and ground elder which tend to break and reestablish.
Hoeing is ideal in vegetable beds. Draw a sharp blade just below the surface to cut weed roots. Most effective in dry periods when seedlings desiccate.
Deep digging can bury the weeds. Pick out dandelion roots.
Repeat strimming or cutting will weaken weeds but you need to be patient.
Flame guns are useful on paths and hard surfaces but not always effective on deep rooted weeds.

BlackÂ plastic excluding light for 6-12 months will clear most weeds.
Landscape fabric like Phormasil will do the job of plastic but allow water through.
A thick layer of organic mulch will kill most weeds but may also introduce new seeds in the compost
Inorganic mulch like aggregates needs to be 3 inches thick.
Aesthetically such barrier methods may need a covering of gravel or mulch.

Total weed killers remain active in the soil often for 6 months. They bare effective for large areas and on hard surfaces.
Contact chemicals are best for annual weeds. There are some ‘organic’ versions based on natural acid based products.
Systemic weed killers are absorbed in to the plant which then dies.
Glyphosphate is non selective and is inactive after contact with the soil.
Some stubborn or woody weeds need to have exposed surfaces to take up the poison
Special chemical mixes have been formulated for lawns

Good weeding for next year – a year of seeds is 5 years of weeds.