How to Remove Garden Weeds and Keep Them Down

Project Overview

Weed control is easier when you match the method to the area. A path, lawn, vegetable bed and planted border all need slightly different approaches.

Safety Note

Wear gloves and use kneeling support where needed. If using any weedkiller, follow the product instructions exactly, avoid drift, keep it away from ponds and drains, and do not spray in wind. Avoid chemicals around edible crops unless the product is specifically suitable.

Method

1. Identify whether the weed is shallow-rooted, deep-rooted or spreading by runners.
2. Remove roots where possible, especially for persistent weeds.
3. Use a hoe on dry days for small annual weeds in open soil.
4. Brush or scrape weeds from paving joints before they establish.
5. Mulch borders after weeding to reduce light reaching new seedlings.
6. Repeat little and often before weeds flower and seed.

Common Mistakes

Snapping roots, hoeing wet soil, leaving seed heads on site and using the same method everywhere all make weeds return faster.

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