HOW CAN I KEEP WEEDS FROM GROWING IN MY SHRUB BEDS?

You can pull them, or treat them with herbicides to kill them, but normally the best solution is to apply a pre-emergent herbicide that kills germinating seeds. Be careful when using herbicides around desirable plants as most herbicides can cause injury or death to them as well as the weeds.

SHOULD I USE A LANDSCAPE CLOTH OR PLASTIC AS A BARRIER TO WEEDS?

This works for awhile, but as time passes dust and dirt will build up on top of the barrier and it will start to decompose and become torn. Weeds will also easily grow on top of the barrier. If you use plastic it tends to keep water from getting to your plant's roots which can cause drought stress.

SHOULD I PUT SOME TYPE OF MULCH ON THE BEDS?

Yes; materials such as beauty bark, red rock, or gravel can reduce the amount of weed growth compared to bare dirt.

HOW DO PRE-EMERGENT HERBICIDES WORK?

These herbicides keep weed seeds from germinating; they should be applied in late winter or early spring. Examples are products like "Casoron" or "Preen." Caution must be taken to follow the label or you will injure lawns or desirable plants.

When using these materials be sure to read and follow the label directions carefully. Remember, these products will not control existing weeds. Existing weeds must be hand-pulled or treated with a product like "Round-up."

CAN YOU HELP US?

We have a weed control program that can be tailored to fit your needs. It may include shrub beds with beauty bark, gravel, or bare ground areas. Just give us a call and one of our technicians will give you an estimate and our recommendations.

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