Controlling weeds in your commercial property may not seem challenging until the climate heats up and invasive weeds begin dominating the landscape. Combating weeds before they mature and flower can keep their numbers low, but depending on the species, weeds develop immense root systems that are difficult to destroy after they’re established. By using year-round weed control techniques, you can minimize weed growth and encourage the perennials to flourish. Here are some tips for controlling weeds in your commercial landscape.
After clearing a landscaped area of all visible weeds, you can apply a preemergence herbicide to prevent the weeds’ proliferation. You have several organic and inorganic options for herbicide, but landscape experts recommend using nontoxic corn gluten meal, oryzalin or trifluralin. Before adding the chemical, check with your landscaper to ensure it works well with your plantings and landscape.
Most herbicides require watering after application, but after watering the area once, you can leave it alone to do its job. Herbicides inhibit the weeds’ growth by preventing germination.
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Raking up brush, leaves and fallen branches allows sunlight to reach your turf and landscaped plants. Most ornamental plants and grass need ample sunlight, but weeds can multiply and take over the root systems if the sun’s rays are blocked by yard debris. Keeping the area clean also prevents mold and grass diseases from developing.
Although bees and birds are well-known for their contributions to pollination, several creatures, including rodents, beetles and mammals help pollinate flowering plants. Since bees joined the endangered species lists, keeping your plants healthy requires a bit more work. However, more gardeners and landscapers are planting pollinator gardens near perennials to encourage pollination and minimize weeds.
By isolating flowering weeds in a separate area or raised planter, your plants can benefit from pollination without having their root systems disturbed. Some of the weeds that attract bees and other pollinators include dandelions, clover, ground ivy, ironweed, purple deadnettle and henbit.
Frequent mowing and trimming can inhibit weed growth and keep your turf healthy throughout the year. If the grass is mowed too short, the sunlight can hit the soil and encourage crabgrass and other weeds to develop. Close-cut grass cannot produce essential nutrients at the same rate, and it becomes more vulnerable to disease. Check with your landscape provider for the ideal grass height, depending on the variety. Although each grass is different, most landscapers maintain heights of two to four inches.
Fertilizing your perennials often, pruning trees and shrubs and removing dead growth can benefit your weed control program. When plants are healthy, their root systems are stronger, and they become more resistant to competing species. Depending on the climate, you may have to add fertilizer two to three times a year but check with an expert to determine the correct quantity to apply. Using too much fertilizer can weaken your plants and allow other weeds to germinate.
Installing landscape fabric around new plantings can reduce the weeds, but be sure to remove all existing weeds before covering them with the material. If the weed’s root is not removed, it can eventually break through the cloth and continue to grow strong. Laying down fabric and then adding mulch creates a protective barrier against weeds. However, if your mulch contains weed seeds, it can produce a colony of invaders. Ask your garden center for seed-free mulch to keep your beds healthy.
Rather than relying on sprinklers, you can utilize drip irrigation to promote growth and minimize weeds. Drip hoes supply plants with water at the root level but do not water fallen weed seeds on the surface.
Keeping your property healthy and weed-free may seem challenging, but you can rely on the professionals at Monarch Landscaping Companies for all of your landscaping needs. Contact us today!
