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David E. Ross · 20-03-2008, 06:19 PM posted to rec.gardens

On 3/20/2008 5:24 AM, wrote:
What is the best way to eliminate weeds in mulch?

We purchased a home and the previous owner maintained a beautiful
backyard. We are moving in soon and would like to keep it that
way I do not have much a green thumb yet, but I am trying to get
up to speed as quickly as possible although there is much to learn.

Walking through the backyard the other day I noticed there were many
little weeds growing in the mulch. I say in the mulch because the
previous owner said he had a weed barrier under the mulch. I assume
weed seeds landed on the mulch and are beginning to sprout. I would
prefer not to pick them by hand because there are thousands of them
littered throughout the mulch.

And in the future is it a reasonable idea to apply pre-emergent on top
of the mulch to prevent the problem?

We also have a crushed granite path that is suffering similar
symptoms...I assume this should be treated/prevented in a manner
consistent to the mulch?

What are some solutions to this problem?

Thanks in advance for your expertise.

If the weed barrier is still intact, the weeds should not grow above a
certain size. First, check to make sure the barrier is still there. If
it is, just pull the largest weeds and any that are starting to flower.

As for the decomposed granite path, hand weeding should be easy. I use
a paring knife and a bucket as I slowly crawl along my paths. It's very
relaxing. I also carry pruning and grass shears in case I need to trim
the edges or groom spent flowers that are near the path.

--
David E. Ross
Climate: California Mediterranean
Sunset Zone: 21 -- interior Santa Monica Mountains with some ocean
influence (USDA 10a, very close to Sunset Zone 19)
Gardening pages at http://www.rossde.com/garden/