plants . For instance , the product 2,4- D or formulas with dicamba affect broadleaf weeds but not grass . Such selective herbicides are often marketed for clearing weeds from lawns .
If you choose to use chemical weed killers , you will find them extremely effective for most weeds . They are especially useful for eradicating deep-rooted perennial weeds . Herbicides are also popular for maintaining hard surfaces such as paving and for clearing new planting areas . When preparing for a new planting , remove existing vegetation and then leave the ground fallow for several weeks , spraying emerging foliage to destroy lurking weeds .
Don ’ t break new ground
Most soil contains weed seeds . One study found more than 30,000 seeds per square meter of land . The seeds in your garden are all waiting for their moments in the sun — don ’ t let them have it ! Every time you disturb the soil by digging or forking , you will be turning up weed seeds . Adopt a no-dig policy and apply compost as a mulch on the soil surface . Earthworms and other soil critters will drag it down and work it in .
Seeds love loose soil in open areas , so cover your soil to discourage weeds from germinating . The best