Controlling weeds naturally
Weeds definitely have a bad reputation. The term "weed" is even used as an insult! A weed is another word for something that is unwanted, uninvited, and that needs to be dealt with. Weeds are the last thing that we want to introduce to our lawns and gardens, but how terrible is it really if they find their way there on their own? Experts suggest that weeds may have been unfairly labeled too harshly and that weeds are actually good things, in small amounts, because they provide good nesting locations for beneficial insects, a mix of weeds may be more aesthetically appealing. A wide range of weeds in your yard strengthens its defenses against insect attacks as each different weed presents its own unique type of defenses much like the body creates antibodies that are able to battle specific components of a cold.
|
|
With that said, you still do not want your whole yard overrun by weeds, but what can you do? Many people, especially those who are environmentally conscious or who fear the dangers of poisons (i.e. Homeowners with children), are looking for a more natural way to keep the weeds at bay. One of the first things that you can do to control weeds naturally is to start from the bottom up. Have your dirt tested to determine its PH level. You can then create conditions that are less favorable for weeds by countering the PH levels with different soil types. The types of soil that are most common in your area will likely dictate what options you will have when it comes to buying the dirt that you plan to have under your grass. Paying attention to PH levels is important because grass roots absorb more nutrients in the soil when the ground PH level is controlled.
When it comes to fertilizing your lawn, make sure you do so in the spring and fall. These are the times when the grass is best able to absorb nutrients. When you promote a more lush lawn, grass will grow more vigorously and this vigorous growth will choke the weeds. Aeration is also a good thing to do in order to keep your lawn looking healthy and weed free. Aerate once every couple of years or more often if soil compacts regularly. Aeration is beneficial because it breaks up the soil (adding air to it) allowing water and nutrients to get deep into roots.
Mowing the lawn properly can also stunt weed growth naturally. Mulching mowers are great as they lay a thin layer of grass clippings on the lawn. Not only does this prevent weeds but it also provides nutrients, like a fertilizer. Mow higher (allowing the grass to be longer) than usual to prevent sunlight from getting to the soil and thereby prevent weeds from germinating. Keeping grass higher is also beneficial because it requires less frequent watering. Mowing at the right time of day is also important. Mowing down the weeds before they have a chance to flower prevents them from setting their seed.
You will still have weeds after taking all of these preventative measures; you may just need to pick the weeds that persist. After all, being out in the yard is a good way to enjoy the outdoors and picking weeds could be good exercise. Furthermore, taking drastic action to your entire lawn, simply to rid yourself of a few weeds could be more detrimental than just letting the weeds grow in the first place. Controlling weeds naturally combines common sense with basic lawn care know-how and a little time spent out in the sun.
