Remove Weeds
It’s best to remove weeds from mulch beds before mulching, as mulch can trap weed seeds in the soil. One option is to use a commercial weed killer like Roundup or glyphosate, which kills weeds at the root. Another option is to mix salt, vinegar, and dish soap together and spray weeds with the mixture as they grow. And while this approach is less invasive, it’s more natural than using herbicides. A third option is to burn weeds using a propane weed burner. It’s a great way to deal with those stubborn weeds that just won’t respond to other methods of weed control.
Remove Debris
Fallen leaves and other debris are a nuisance in mulch beds, especially in vegetable garden or annual flower beds. To prepare these beds for spring mulching, it’s vital to remove all of this debris from the soil. A leaf blower or vacuum can help get rid of these unwanted leaves, but they should be used with care. Be sure to avoid sucking up other objects like sticks or rocks as they may clog the leaf blower or dull its blades.
Apply Pre-Emergent
During the spring season, it is important to apply pre-emergent herbicides in order to control the weeds that will germinate in your garden. Typically, these herbicides should be applied two to three weeks before weed germination occurs. Pre-emergent herbicides can be used on many common weeds, including dandelions, clover, ragweed, and crabgrass. They are often effective and should be applied in mid-February, a month before the soil is expected to reach a warm temperature that will allow the weeds to germinate. Then once the pre-emergent herbicide has been applied, it should be refreshed with fresh mulch on a regular basis as an easy way to maintain the health of your garden and keep it weed free all year round!