How to Have a Weed Free Garden

A few years ago during growing season, my area received a record breaking amount of rainfall. Although we did need the extra rain, it wrecked havoc on my garden. The weeds were overwhelming and every weekend I spent two hours a day on just removing them. I tried to keep the garden weed free, but most of my crop was ruined by reoccurring weeds. They compete with vegetable plants and rob most of their water and nutrients. This slows down the growing process considerably and any vegetables that do grow, come out smaller and full of blemishes.

The problem lies in tilling the soil before planting. Underneath the grass cover is a countless number of grass seedlings. When you till the grass and expose the soil, the seedlings are also exposed to light and air. This is all they need to start sprouting. With a bit of rain, they grow fast and overcome the small vegetable plants growing there.

Here are a few things you can do if you have a problem with weeds in your garden.

Raised garden beds are one way to stop the problem. The soil used in a garden bed consists of compost, sand and store bought soil. None of these things contain any grass seedlings. The compost is excellent for growing and contains minerals needed for healthy plants.

Using things like wheelbarrows, shovels and just walking around vegetable plants too much can transport seedlings into your garden. Keep all pathways around plants clear of weeds. They can spread right into your garden.

Watering a garden with a sprinkler not only wastes water but promotes weed growth. Sprinklers water pathways and other places that do not need to be watered. Use a more concentrated watering method like digging small trenches around each plant in a circle. Connect all the circles and place a water hose at the beginning of a row. This should let the water trickle to all the plants that need it, while keeping all other areas dry.

Different kinds of mulches can help keep weeds away. Wood chips, hay, sawdust and small stones are not only a deterrent for weeds but can add nutrients and hold in water. Any kind of mulch can be used depending on your tastes. All mulch smother weeds and adds a clean, pleasant look to any garden.

With a bit of planning it is possible to have a weed free garden.