Chickweed. As its name says, it is a weed, not a pretty groundcover. Pull it up by its roots!
Weeding Tips from Our Gardening Pros
Weeding is one of the most important garden maintenance tasks. Weeds will rapidly take over your garden if not dealt with decisively and regularly. Weeds deprive treasured plants for nutrients and water, which may result in fewer blossoms and smaller vegetables.
Make weeding part of your daily garden routine. Chief Gardener Helen always carries her weed bucket. “I pull them when I see them,” she says. “I weed monthly at home, but it is less of a job as I always find some for the bucket every time I am in my gardens.” For gardening clients, Helen recommends a similar approach, with weeding done every visit. This prevents gardens becoming overrun with weeds. “If that doesn’t do it, or for areas that are especially weed prone, “ Helen says, “we schedule weeding intensives as part of the garden’s care.”
Pull or dig them up by the roots. The entire weed should be pulled or it may re-grow. Some weeds will come easily out of the soil. Dandelions and other deep-rooted weeds require digging deep to get the entire root. Others, such as ferns and Horsetail, have extensive underground roots or a root network. These will be only eradicated with persistence and digging deeply enough and in a wide enough area to get all of the roots. It may take several attempts, over several seasons! Patience and persistence are the key to success.
Weed when the weeding is good. Soft, wet/moist soil makes it easier to pull weeds. If it has not rained, weed after you water. Your flowers and vegetables appreciate not sharing their water with the weeds. You will appreciate this having critically important gardening task made easier.
Keep weeds from sprouting. Mulch. One of the unsung benefits of mulch is its ability to keep weeds from sprouting. Mulch deprives weed seeds of the light they need to sprout. Those that do have weaker roots, making them easier to pull. Plus, mulch helps the soil to retain moisture and provides nutrients for your garden.
Use the right tools for the job. For some weeds, your hands are all you need. For deep-rooted weeds, or to quickly and effectively weed large areas, as well as to dig weeds from between patio or paver stones try these helpful tools: a triangular bladed hoe or a Cape Cod Weeder (Helen’s favorite). Its angled blade makes short work of weeds, especially those growing close to plants. A ‘fishtail’ weeder is also useful. Always wear good quality gardening gloves.
Crabgrass. Reach into the soil and pull it just below the crown to minimize the plant breaking off and leaving its roots behind to grow again. Pulling it out using firm, steady pressure rather than yanking will help.
Horsetail. Its roots form a dense, often matted network that requires digging beneath and to the sides of the plants. It may take several tries (and possibly several seasons to eradicate completely.