I have a regenerative organic garden and I'm dealing with a serious weed problem. I've let some grow in areas I'm not currently planting, but now they seem to have overtaken everything. I really want to avoid using plastic fabric, because I don't want to support that or contribute to microplastic pollution. I'm looking for suggestions on how to organically reduce or manage the weeds in my garden without relying on plastic materials.
3 Answers
Thick mulch is your best friend when it comes to weed control. Just keep layering it on—if you notice any weeds trying to poke through, add even more mulch. Starting with bare dirt? Consider using clear plastic to solarize the area first, then add the mulch; it can really help eliminate existing weeds.
One effective method is to hand-pull the larger weeds regularly. For the smaller ones, you can lay down cardboard and cover it with mulch. This creates a barrier that helps smother them. For a longer-term approach, gather leaves in the fall to create mats. You can use these wet mats in the spring to keep new weeds at bay and they work great for hilling potatoes too!
Great tip! I've seen those leaf mats work wonders as a weed barrier.
You could also spray a mixture of 30% vinegar directly onto the weeds. Just be cautious with it; it's a natural herbicide, so it can harm your plants too if you're not careful about where you spray. Just use a spray bottle and target the weeds directly!
Does it really work? I've never tried vinegar for weed control!
Yeah, and if you mow or use a weed eater first, then mulch, that can also help you out!