The number one rule in preventing weeds is to apply at least a 2 inch layer of barkdust over your soil. If you're soil is bare it's a good idea to put at least a 3 inch layer on top.
By applying a top dressing of barkdust over soil it deters weeds from sprouting by preventing germination in their roots. Not only does the bark deter weeds it also keeps your plant roots cool in the summer and warmer in the winter. Remember to not let the barkdust gather too deep around the base of your plants.
Another way to prevent weeds is to apply a pre-emergent herbicide to the soil. The best time to apply a pre-emergent is immediately before the barkdust is applied. Although it's okay to do after the bark is down it is not quite as effective and should be used with caution around children and pets. Also remember to follow the instructions on the pre-emergents not allowing the product to get too close to your lawn or plants.
We often get asked if it's a good idea to lay down a landscape fabric before barkdust is applied to prevent weeds. The landscapers we work with almost inevitably say no. They state that as long as you apply the proper pre-emergent and barkdust it is an unnecessary step.
Another good idea is to plant fast growing ground covers such as vinca or hypericum that will take over the soil so the weeds have no space to grow.
Follow these steps:
1) Remove existing weeds.
2) Apply a pre-emergent on the soil.
3) Install a 2-3 inch layer of barkdust.
4) Remove any weeds that make it through the barkdust so they do not have time to seed. The sooner you pull them the easier it is to keep up with them.
5) Limit the amount of digging in the soil which brings weed seeds to the surface.
6) Apply a new layer of barkdust every 2-4 years as necessary.
It is best to first
weed and clear loose debris such as leaves where the product will be
spread. You may want to have a pre-emergent down (weed preventative) as
well. If the product will be blown on it is best to also close your
doors and windows, and have the sprinkler system turned off 24 hours
prior to our arrival. Please inform our office if extra attention needs
to be paid to pets, water features, sensitive plants etc. If there is a
need to park, or enter onto your driveway, please let us know so we can
get a damage waiver form completed before starting the job.
Landscaping companies and homeowners that we supply organic compost to love the results it gives their projects for many reasons. Here are the top 5 reasons it's a great idea to add compost to your yard.
1) Compost provides many valuable nutrients improving the existing soil physically, chemically, and biologically. Having both macro and micro nutrients compost releases essential elements such as nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium into the soil that are a necessity for plant growth.
2) Improved soil structure, density, and porosity of soils. As the compost breaks down it provides organic matter which keeps the soil from getting hard, improves workability, and enhances water permeability. This is especially good news for people with hard clay soil which is very common in the Northwest.
3) Compost improves soils water holding capacity and increases its drought resistance. This is especially beneficial in the summer time heat as you can cut back on your irrigation amount and frequency. In the harsh cold winter months it also acts as a blanket helping to protect your plants roots from freezing temperatures.
4) The promotion of root activity in plants is greatly increased as the organic matter in compost decomposes certain fungi work symbiotically with the roots to assist them in the extracting of nutrients. Compost also encourages earthworms to move in which helps with aeration and water infiltration further benefiting your plants roots.
5) Erosion Control is greatly enhanced keeping your soil in place and not running to your neighbors yard below.
These are only 5 of the almost countless benefits that organic compost provides, so give it a try and watch your garden grow.
Please let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.
Thank you very much.
