site preparation   I    weed control

After soils are tested, weeds should be removed before the process of improvement occurs.

It is essential that weeds be removed before planting, particularly species such as Kikuyu or Couch that are very invasive and will over run gardens.  There are both chemical and non chemical weed removal options. 

chemicals

Be conscious of the health risks and environment hazards involved in using chemicals, and always wear protective clothing when applying.  Consider that chemicals can:

• damage the soil biomass, fertility and structure
• contaminate waterways and groundwater
• create soil toxicity
• have high costs
• are not sustainable into the future

The benefits of chemical use are that they are fast acting and an easy option in terms of physical labour

If you do choose to use chemicals for weed removal, where weeds (existing or emerging) are present, an application of Round-up bi-active (less harmful than Round – up but as effective and more appropriate near waterways) would be suitable to ensure weeds do not penetrate gardens once planted. 

Follow manufacturers’ instructions for application amounts.  If time permits, and particularly on large scale projects, a second application after new growth has re-appeared ensures a better result.  Planting should be avoided for at least 7 days after spraying

organic  I  natural weed removal

Though non chemical options take more time and labour, there is less cost financially and to the environment by choosing some of these options, and soil and plant health are maintained.  The following organic weed treatments are preferred:

• Manual weed removal of emergent weeds
• Solarisation (laying down black plastic or glass sheets and allowing the sun to kill weeds)
• Heavy mulching
• Application of ‘Interceptor Organic Weed killer’ (organic certified weed spray)