I'm currently tackling my dad's overgrown and neglected garden, which is totally overrun with huge weeds. I spent a week clearing it out, but after having to take a break due to some health issues, those pesky weeds have come back with a vengeance. I dug out as many as I could, but the roots are enormous—some are over a meter long! Honestly, it's just too much physical labor for one person. I'm hoping to lay new turf in the garden, but I need to find a weed killer that will effectively eliminate all the weeds, yet still allow me to lay down fresh turf in just a few weeks. Any recommendations?
3 Answers
Honestly, I’d suggest trying a rotovator if the weeds are really bad, although it sounds like your soil’s pretty rough. It might be more effective than weed killer alone since those products can struggle with thick roots. If that’s not an option, consider laying down some heavy weed-proof membrane for a year. Just be prepared for a bit of a battle with any remaining weeds!
Glyphosate is a solid option! It will take down most weeds, as long as they’re not super woody, and it breaks down fast enough to be safe for laying turf within 1-2 weeks. Just make sure to follow the instructions—getting enough coverage without overdoing it is key. One thing to watch out for though is the summer heat; you’ll need to keep the new turf well-watered to survive!
I back the glyphosate recommendation too! Just remember to apply it when the weeds are actively growing. It won’t harm the ground as long as you use it correctly. Just keep an eye out for drought conditions, and don’t spray when the plants are in bloom to protect pollinators. Regarding safety for pets, it’s wise to keep your dog away until the area is dry and safe, usually after a few days!
Thanks for the advice! Just to clarify, I’m mostly worried about the thicker weeds like nettles and brambles. Will glyphosate work on those too? Also, any tips for keeping my dog safe?
I’ve thought about that, but my soil is so clay-heavy and full of debris that it might just break the rotovator. I’m also worried about the deep roots from those giant weeds—it's not just about the surface! Thanks for the suggestions, though!