Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Applying heat to weeds is another effective way to kill them. This
is most useful in your pathways, driveway, or sidewalks. Heat will kill
your vegetable plants as well, so don't use this method in your
vegetable garden. You can purchase a handheld flamer, which basic-
ally burns any weeds the flame touches. To kill weeds in small areas
such as the crevices of a stone patio, pour boiling water over the
weeds. This will keep your patio or sidewalk weed-free.
Planting a windbreak will help prevent weeds from blowing from
another area into your garden. This can be very effective, especially
if your garden borders on a wooded area or a wild meadow area
where there are many different weeds. You cannot usually mow or
keep these areas cut back, so a windbreak keeps the seeds from
reaching your garden. Cedar and laurel hedges make good wind-
breaks. Both grow quickly and are fairly dense when mature. A fence
could also work as a windbreak, blocking unwanted seeds from com-
ing through.
The Benefits of Weeds
Weeds do have some benefits to your garden as well. Many perennial
weeds are deep-rooted, which helps bring nutrients to the surface so
your vegetable plants have access to them. The deep roots also aer-
ate the soil, which can be helpful, especially if you have drainage
problems in your garden site. Weeds will grow when most other
plants will not and are beneficial for preventing soil erosion and for
preventing leaching of nutrients due to heavy rainfall. Many weeds
are a great food source for bees, butterflies, birds, and beneficial
insects, which all help to control unwanted pests and disease in your
vegetable garden.
Weeds That Attract Butterflies
