Weeding

Whilst your plants are still young, weed control is very important to avoid competition for water and nutrients and to allow as much light as possible to reach the base of the plant where young, strong shoots form.

There are many ways of controlling weeds:
1. Plant through a weed control mat such as Mipex or another fabric mat. Dependent on the quality of the material, this is often the best way of achieving long term control whilst allowing water to seep through to the roots.

2. Mulch with pine woodchip, sawdust, newspaper shreds. Always make sure that whatever type you use is well rotted, probably for at least one year. Fresh material draws nitrogen from the ground which would be used by the plant. Lay mulch to a depth of around 4 inches.

3. Chemical weed control. CAUTION! Always read the label! We recommend using Roundup or Gramoxone based weedkillers if you choose this method. Many other chemicals are taken up by the plant and may prove fatal. Always ensure that no chemical touches green leaves or young shoots. Its best to apply in late Autumn when the plants are dormant. This should give adequate control right through the Spring. See Our 'Spraying' page for more details

4. Hand weeding. Probably the most environmentally friendly method and perfectly adequate in the home garden situation. Put the weeds on your compost heap to provide soil improver for other areas of your garden.