Plant Selection to Reduce Weeds
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| An extreme example of Kudzu vine covering entire forested areas. Kudzu is very difficult to control. Photo source: SoftCore Studios (Flickr) |
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Drought tolerant spreading juniper creates dense shade that suppresses weeds. |
One of the most effective ways to control weeds is through competition for needed resources such as light, water, and nutrients.
Choose plants that are well adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. Even desirable plants can become weeds. Avoid plants that readily reseed or spread aggressively.
Plant characteristics that may help with weed control include those that reduce light availability to germinating weed seeds. These include:
- Dense horizontal leaves
- Plants with dense canopies planted closer together
- Perennials and shrubs that are taller than the weed trying to be controlled
- Trees and shrubs in a forest or woodland garden reduce light coming into the forest floor
Some vines may be difficult to control without resorting to cultural or chemical control methods. A more open desert like landscape design may also be difficult to maintain if aggressive perennial weeds are present.
When choosing low-water use landscape plants, keep the following competitive advantages in mind.
- Drought tolerance
- Cold hardiness
- Soil characteristics
- Growth rate
- Longevity
- Pest and disease tolerance
Additional Resources:
West
Colorado - Xeriscaping: Ground Cover Plants
Midwest
Minnesota: Weed Control in Lawns and Other Turf