Asked on May 8, 2017
What's a good alternative to chemical weed killers in a flower bed?
I hate using chemical weed killers in our mulched beds but we have so many weeds and baby tree seedlings coming up it's impossible to weed them all by hand. Is there a good alternative that really works on weeds but won't get down into the soil and mess with the root systems of other 'good' plants?
6 answers
- Janet Pizaroon May 8, 2017You cannot use chemicals in an established garden bed. You will have to smother the weeds out with newspapers and heavy black plastic if they cannot be pulled.HelpfulReply
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Elizabeth Dionon May 9, 2017Is your mulch deep enough to block the weed seedlings from coming up? The mulch layer should be 3-4 inches deep.HelpfulReply
- Karinon May 10, 2017The mulch layer is very deep. The seedlings are growing in the mulch itself.HelpfulReply
- Krystinakon May 9, 2017Please don't use chemical weedkiller - it will also kill the 'good' creatures in your garden like our already endangered bees. BTW they love the weeds and wildflowers.HelpfulReply
- Joanneon May 9, 2017Other than pulling them there is really no easy solution. I have the same. Last year I put 3-4 inches of mulch down. This makes them much easier to pull out. Hope this helps. Good luck.HelpfulReply
- Kathi M. Mileson May 9, 2017Make your own weed killer! I use a 2 to 1 mixture of vinegar & water with a couple of drops of Dawn dishwashing liquid. Use a spray bottle and drench the leaves of the weed on a sunny day, Not harmful to kids or pets and won't stay in the ground either.HelpfulReply
- Debbie/Dragonfly Treasureon Jun 18, 2018There are several here on HM:https://www.hometalk.com/search/posts?filter=weed%20killerI just soak the area and pull the next day...I need the exercise! LOL-----------1 gallon white vinegar and 1 cup salt and 1 tablespoon liquid dish soap Combine ingredients inspray bottle and treat weeds at the hottest time of day for best results.HelpfulReply