Weeds.
These freeloading pests from the plant kingdom never fail to appear, much like unwelcome guests who refuse to leave. Regardless of how carefully you care for your tomato plants or arrange your mulch, these intruders with extended families just keep showing up unbidden.
If you’ve caught yourself complaining on your hands and knees while pulling out weeds or deciphering weed killer instructions that seem as complex as a chemistry lesson combined with safety training, know that you are not the only one facing this challenge.
The great part? You don’t require harmful chemicals or an advanced degree in environmental science to combat weeds. Below are seven methods to handle them safely, organically, effectively—and without draining your bank account.
1. VAPORIZE WATER: THE QUICK STUNNING TECHNIQUE
Your kettle has now turned into a gardening tool. Directly pour boiling water onto weeds growing in sidewalk crevices, driveways, or gravel pathways. This method essentially boils the plants right from their roots. Be cautious though; even though boiling water isn’t poisonous, it can still pose risks to both you and anyone around, including your tulip beds, if not handled properly. Expense: zero cost (not counting the energy used for heating).
2. WHITE VINEGAR: NATURE’S WEED ELIMINATOR
Create your own homemade herbicide:
— 1 gallon of distilled white vinegar (5% acetic acid)
— 1 cup regular inexpensive table salt (DO NOT use Epsom Salt!)
— 1 teaspoon of dish soap, such as Blue Dawn
Thoroughly combine all ingredients in a spray container or similar receptacle, and apply directly onto the weeds when the sun is shining brightly. This method rapidly dehydrates them, however be cautious since it eliminates any vegetation it comes into contact with. Reapply as needed. The cost should range from approximately $3 to $5.
3. APPLY MULCH GENEROUSLY
Applying mulch prevents sunlight from reaching the soil and stops weeds from growing. Use a generous layer, particularly over cardboard or newspapers for enhanced weed-suppressing effects. It’s ideal for vegetable patches and floral edges. In terms of expense, mulch ranges from being completely free to quite inexpensive based on what you use.
4. CORN GLUTEN MEAL: THE PROTECTOR
Prevents weed seeds from sprouting. While it doesn’t eliminate current weeds, it serves as an excellent preventive measure during early spring or late summer.
Just FYI: It will also prevent grass seeds; poor timing can have adverse effects. Price: around $20 per bag.
5. REMOVE WEEDS FOLLOWING RAIN
Traditional weeding becomes simpler when the ground is moist. This makes the roots yield more easily, which can be quite gratifying. Price tag? Nothing at all. Plus, you get extra benefits from de-stressing as you go about your task.
6. GRAMPA’S WEEDER
Also called the Original Stand-Up Weed Pulling Tool, this device is incredibly handy for people who prefer not to kneel or crawl around on their hands and knees. It’s a long-handled weed extractor that allows you to remove pesky weeds without having to bend over, squat, or complain.
Equipped with a basic claw, it grips the weeds’ roots, and a gentle twist of the handle removes them easily. Ideal for dealing with pesky plants like dandelions, thistles, and crabgrass. The price ranges from approximately $40 on Amazon. Designed to endure for generations (which explains its name).
7. FLAME WEEDING: A CHOICE FOR THE DARING
Employ a propane torch to eliminate weeds in paved areas and gravel walkways. Applying heat for just a couple of seconds can rupture plant cells, effectively eliminating the weeds. Caution: prioritize safety! Ensure you’re far from combustible substances, dry vegetation like grass, or mulched sections. Refrain from using this method when it’s breezy outside. Expense: The device will cost around $40-$80.
8. DIY WEED BARRIER
Ditch expensive landscape fabric and opt instead for recycling cardboard, newspapers, or old cotton sheets beneath your mulch. These materials prevent light from reaching weed seeds, inhibit their growth, and eventually decompose to enhance your soil quality. Best part? It’s completely free (giving you an excellent reason to tidy up your linen closet).
FINAL THOUGHTS
You don’t require chemicals or a home equity loan to maintain your garden’s appearance. You can boil it, spray it, smother it, pull it out manually, or carefully use fire. These economical, natural techniques will assist you in regaining control over your garden without jeopardizing your well-being or your pets’ safety.
And should one or two weeds somehow manage to slip through? Consider it a gentle nudge that you’re gardening in harmony with nature rather than battling against it.
Mary welcomes you to stop by at EverydayCheapskate.com, where this column is fully archived along with links and details for all suggested items and services. Feel free to reach out to Mary with your queries and thoughts.
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Reach out to Mary.” This column aims to address queries of broad public interest; however, individual correspondence won’t be responded to personally. Mary Hunt established EverydayCheapskate.com, a website focused on thrifty lifestyle tips, and she has also penned the publication titled “Debt-Proof Living.
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