Too many weeds in the garden – what could be the cause and what potential remedies can be used to combat it?

If you have tons of unwanted plants and weeds in your garden, the causes might sometimes be quite surprising. Such unwanted growths can not only affect the aesthetics of the garden, but also endanger the health of your neighboring plants. In addition, there are different plant varieties, ranging from low-spreading annuals to invasive and persistent colonizers. It is therefore important to react to them in a timely manner by identifying the weeds and taking the right measures against them. Here are some important information and tips that can help you get this gardening job done.

Identify the possible causes of weeds in the garden

First and foremost, a densely planted garden leaves little room for weeds. For example, if you walk through a forest, woodland, or natural environment, you will see different layers with lots of vegetation or a few of the same plants scattered throughout the landscape. Nature wants rich layers and not fertile space that remains unfilled. Therefore, try moreGrowing plants in garden soil.

For example, ground cover plants fill in the low gaps to prevent weed seedlings from gaining a foothold. Middle tier plant varieties like taller grasses while denseflowering perennials shade the garden floor. Shrubs and trees in different sizes complete the garden design. Layers of plants working together will not only effectively combat weeds, but also allow for a lush, attractive garden year-round.

Use less mulch

Using less wood mulch reduces the ideal habitat for weed growth in the garden. Typically, the use of mulch can help regulate soil temperature and compete with weeds. However, garden soils covered with them also tend to keep plants in a permanent establishment phase. The plants love to touch and communicate, with their roots and leaves sharing important information and resources.

Not to mention the joint work against weeds. Additionally, excessive mulching can actually create an inviting open space for weeds to invade, because nature wants to do nothing more than fill in the gaps.

Do not plant garden beds too far apart

As mentioned, you can eliminate spaces where weeds can burrow by planting plants close together. It's best to research online and in books how your newly acquired plant grows and whether it sends out runners and self-seeds. It is also important to know what size the plant is and whether non-native varieties are suitable for your soil and climate. Your plants may need to be spaced closer together to prevent weeds from appearing in the garden. Space your plants about 12 inches apart, although 8 to 10 inches would be even better as they can fill out more quickly.

Pulled weeds in the garden leave niches for seeds

When you pull a weed out of the ground, you also pull up a lot of soil, creating a hole. This essentially leaves lush conditions for a weed seed to germinate. Therefore, if you want to control an annual weed, consider cutting the plant to prevent it from flowering and setting seeds. As a result, such plants will not disturb the garden soil and will not create space for invasions. However, this method often only works on annual weeds that have not yet bloomed, while perennial weeds require you to dig deep.

Avoid overwatering and fertilizing

When gardens are adapted to local climate and site conditions, additional resources that weeds love are not needed. In addition, you do not need any additional watering or fertilizers for plant careWeeds can also thrive. There is therefore no need to overstimulate your beds if your garden plants are already thriving. Tillage can also limit the growth ofWeeds in the gardenstimulate as it unearths buried weed seeds and helps create conditions conducive to germination.

Use tarpaulin against weeds in the garden with caution

Such a product does not always work as a barrier against growing weeds to prevent them from settling in the garden soil. Many weeds have tough roots that push through or grow sideways to find a gap. The wind also blows in soil particles. This creates a thin layer over the fabric for germination, regardless of the depth of the tarp. Such a barrier also prevents nutrients, oxygen and water from circulating between the soil and the world above, which also requires plant roots to breathe. After all, such a measure is just a pain in the ass if you want to add new plants.