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The sight of weeds on lawns is something that everyone dreads. Not only do they contend with desirable plants for nutrients, water, light, and space, they also give refuge to insect pests and diseases that will further add to the problems that gardeners have to face. Before choosing a weed control program for your lawn, it is important to make sure that the methods you use are not hazardous to anyone and will not leave residues that will stay in the environment for centuries. Organic weed control for lawns will make sure that no harm will be done to both man and nature. Methods of organic weed control for lawns include mulching, corn gluten meal, and the use of organic pesticides.
Mulching involves the use of a protective covering of organic material on the soil to prevent erosion, enrich and cool the soil, and retain its moisture. The use of mulch is also an effective organic weed control for lawns. They prevent weeds from germinating, reducing them to a great degree. Examples of effective organic materials are chipped bark, straw, compost, leaves, sawdust, dry grass clippings, hay, and pine needles. Covering the entire area with sheets of cardboard or newspaper with 1-2 inches of compost, sawdust, leaves, or manure on top is an effective organic weed control for lawns. The addition of layers from time to time should be noted as these naturally break down and decompose. Mulch is an extremely valuable organic weed control for lawns as materials are easy to find and inexpensive.
Corn Gluten Meal is also a recommended organic weed control for lawns. This chemical is a natural by-product of starch used on chip, and pet food. It’s not only safe and non-toxic (being exempt from EPA pesticide registration), it’s also a great source of nitrogen. Spreading corn gluten meal over your lawn can prevent dandelion seeds from germinating. However, gluten meal should not be used when you are reseeding as it will prevent grass seed germination. This method of organic weed control for lawns is best done during early spring, and reseeding should follow only after six weeks to make sure that the corn gluten has broken down completely. Tests by the University of Wisconsin show that gluten meal can reduce crabgrass by 86% in the first year of use, and dandelions by 100% in 4 years. The Corn Gluten Meal’s effects may be gradual but it is still one of the safest methods of organic weed control for lawns.
Organic pesticides like Nature’s Avenger are mainly made of natural products like citrus oil, neem oil, vegetable oil, and castor oil. They are effective eliminators of weeds and can be very effective organic weed control for lawns. They are also completely safe and do not leave toxic substances that fail to decompose completely.
Concerns over human health, wildlife, and water quality have triggered the creation of methods of organic weed control for lawns. In the struggle with weeds, the efficacy of the method shouldn’t be the only criterion; sustainability should also be taken into account.
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Author Bio Box: Patricia Wainwright
Get all the facts about weed management and gardening articles at GreenThumbArticles.com!
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