The war against weeds

THE WAR AGAINST weeds never ends. For best results, approach weed control from several fronts. First, eliminate as many weeds as possible from the garden area prior to planting, then remove new weeds that appear before they become established. Other tactical options include using physical barriers to prevent weed emergence, preventing weed seed formation, and employing cultural practices that favor desirable plants. A number of tools and products are available to combat weeds—keep them at the ready to answer the call to arms. In some cases, herbicides may need to be considered as a last resort.