The easiest way to keep weeds out of the garden is to prevent them from growing. Pull them in the early stages. And pull them with all their roots. Most weeds grow a net of roots, which helps them to spread. This root system also sucks up all the minerals and nutrition, other plants need to grow and bloom.
Don't Give Weeds Space
A good option to prevent weeds in flowerbeds is mulch. A two to three inch layer is usually enough to stop unwanted greens from growing. The denser the surface the less likely is the chance of sprawling weeds. Roses, tulips, geraniums and other ornamental plants and flowers will still be able to grow.
As a general rule keep in mind, that weeds need space to spread. Densely planted beds are less likely to overgrow with weeds. A layer of newspaper sheets will also prevent weeds from growing. Like any other plant, weeds need sun, soil and water. If they don’t get enough of any of those, they will die.
Use Vinegar and Salt
Salt, vinegar and water are great solutions to kill already sprawling weeds. Since saltwater will also damage other plants, it should only be used for walkways or patios, not for vegetable or flowerbeds. Dissolve a small package of salt in a gallon of boiling water, to produce this homemade weed killer.
The stronger the solution the less likely there will be any fertile soil for a while, which means that nothing - nothing at all - will be able to grow on the treated spots. To get rid of single weeds put a tablespoon of salt on the unwanted plant. The salt will kill the plant, but will dilute to harmlessness by the next rainfall.
Boiling Water Also Helps to Get Rid of Ants
A less drastic solution to kill weeds is just plain old boiling water. This also has to be used with some care since the hot water can also boil roots of decorative flowers. Boiling water is also a great way to get rid of ants. The hot water kills the eggs and makes the ants move to a safer location.
Are the weeds still young? In that case white or cider vinegar is the best solution. It mostly kills the leaves, not the roots. If the weeds grow back, apply more vinegar.
Corn Meal Prevents Seeds from Growing
Another way to prevent weeds is to treat an area with corn meal. That does not kill the weeds itself, but prevent seeds from growing, wanted or unwanted ones. This method therefore works well for areas that are supposed to be hosting grown plants.
Of course you can mix vinegar, salt and water to make the solution even more effective. Add some drops of liquid soap to make the homemade weed killers stick to the leaves. Used properly those organic methods will work as well as any store bought chemicals. And they are not only cheaper but also better for the environment. Here you can find tips about organic solutions to protect and safe your roses from mildew and aphids.
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