How to Stop Weeds

Hey there, I am Chelsey, founder of Good Grow.

Stopping weeds in your garden is easier than you think.

Don't be overwhelmed by all the different advice you read.

Here, at Good Grow my team and I breakdown the all complex advice and information out there and give you the stuff that actually works!

This beginners guide is the perfect place to start for anyone looking to stop their weeds wherever they may be growing.

Weed Control Articles

In short Good Grow is for those who want to :

  • STOP Weeds
  • Prevent Weeds
  • Make Life Easier

We cover all sorts of gardening topics :

  • Lawn care and mowing advice
  • Weed control and prevention
  • Growing fruits & vegetables
  • Tree care & advice
  • Cool garden hacks & timer savers

Why are we different?

Gardening advice is a crowded market these days. There is so much information (and misinformation) out there. We go the extra mile to give you the best chance at achieving your garden goals.

  • Make it easy: We breakdown all the complicated science and explain it in an easy to understand way that anyone can follow. You don't need to be a horticulturalist to follow us.
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To get started here are some of our best articles that will help you get started on your journey.


5 Steps to Stop Weeds in Your Garden

Step #1 : Identify weeds, know your enemy.

Always know your enemy. Some weeds can be an indication that something is wrong. Dandelions for example like a soil PH of 7.5 which is quite acidic, moss in your lawn can be a sign if drainage problems.

If you don't solve the underlying problems the weeds will come back.


Step #2 : Get dirty, try manually first.

Pull it, pick it, dig it - whichever method you choose make sure you get the roots! Perennial weeds may grow back if you don't get the entire plant, roots included.

Weeds are either annual or perennial. Annual weeds grow and die in one season. They will spread their seed across your garden but are typically quite easy to eliminate. Just make sure you get them early.

Perennials like Ivy & Brambles grow deep roots and can regenerate from deep underground. If you don't dig out the whole plant it may grow back.


Step #3 : Is there a natural way to do it?

If you've tried manually pulling the weeds or it's unfeasible to do so then your next port of call should be to find a natural way to eliminate the problem.

Small weeds can be easily dealt with using homemade weed killers such as salt, vinegar, hot water or a combination of all 3. These all have their faults but if your looking to kill some small weeds on paving or gravel then it may work.


Step #4 : Chemical weed control.

Your last resort should be an industrial weed killer. Sometimes it's necessary, always read the label and follow the instructions carefully.

There are a wide range of selective and systemic herbicides. Selective ones will only kill certain weeds and are typically used in grassy areas. Systemic herbicides will kill anything they touch and should be used with care.

The vast majority of chemical products require some sort of spray application. They should only be used on calm, wind free days to prevent damage to your person & other plants you may wish to keep.


Step #5 : How to stop them growing back.

The best cure is prevention. Cover any unused soil with mulch or fabric, weeds will quickly colonise bare soil. No sunlight = no weeds. Lawns should be mowed at least 3 inches high to prevent weeds getting a foothold.

Regularly clean your concrete paving using soapy water. Any build up of dirt on your paving will allow weeds to grow. Ensure all cracks are sealed using sealant.


Common Herbicide Myths:

Myth #1 : Spraying herbicides results in super weeds.

There is no evidence to suggest we are on the brink of a super weed crisis.

The continued use of a single herbicide class for over 50 years on an industrial scale has lead to some developing a resistance. Even Darwin could have predicted that.

In some cases the the resistant weed is at a disadvantage with the non-resistant. (source)


Myth #2 : Digging is required to stop weeds.

Burying weeds is a sure fire way to kill them but it isn't always practical. Digging your soil may well disturb some dormant seeds and awake new weeds.

There are numerous ways to kill weeds: mulching, herbicide use and shallow hoeing are some of the most popular.


Myth #3 : We'll always be able to spray our way out

Relying solely on herbicide use is a panacea. The wide spread adoption of herbicide resistant crops only exacerbates the problem.

If we are to be successful in preserving the usefulness of herbicides for future generations a combination of physical, chemical, cultural and biological methods will be required. 

For the part time gardener the use of herbicides shouldn't be a concern. Use it as a last resort, always read the label and follow the safety instructions.


Myth #4 : It is best to kill dandelions in the spring.

Don't wait till they flower in the spring. It's too late. Dandelions should be controlled in the autumn before they flower the following year.

The best way to control dandelions in your lawn is to grow a longer, thicker grass: about 3 inches is right. Shade the weed with the grass or the grass will shade the weed.


Myth #5 : Organic fruit & veg contain no pesticides.

You will find pesticides in ALL crops. All fruits and vegetables contain natural pesticides.

Both organic and conventional growers use pesticides. Organic growers are much more limited in which they can use, ones they can find naturally in the environment.

The words natural or synthetic don't mean it's safe or unsafe. Any herbicide must be applied as directed on the label & used responsibly. Please don't be complacent.


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