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Ground cover to prevent weeds

kirsteen Jameskirsteen James Posts: 3
in Talkback
I have acquired an allotment around 25m x8m. It needs a lot of TLC and the weeds are prolific especially mares tail. As I clear the sight I was going to cover what's not in use to keep the weeds at bay. What would be best use and what size? Would one large sheet or a number of smaller ones be more beneficial? Also any advice on whether to use weed killers or meticulously dig out roots? Thanks in advance Kirsteen

Posts

  • DovefromaboveDovefromabove Posts: 88,140

    Dig out perennial roots.  Hoe germinating annuals.  Dig out as much mare's tail as you can.  Liming the land for brassicas can help deter mare's tail but you'll never get rid of it.  However, the continual cultivation of allotments help prevent it being too much of a nuisance (so I'm told) - it's much more of a problem in flower beds and permanent planting such as asparagus and fruit beds. 

    I don't like covering the soil with plastic or carpet etc. I believe it sours the soil, provides idyllic conditions for slugs to breed and perennial weeds continue to grow underneath it - I much prefer to dig it over and let the weather and birds get at it. 

    Don't forget - the allotment rent is cheaper than a gym membership! image

    Good luck image


    Gardening in Central Norfolk on improved gritty moraine over chalk ... free-draining.





  • kirsteen Jameskirsteen James Posts: 3
    Thank you!

    I think I will be doing a lot of digging, arduous but less boring than the gym and much cheaper!!
  • LesleyKLesleyK Posts: 4,029

    Hi Kirsten, there is an allotment thread which may be worth reading to see what others have done.  I'll bump it up for you or try to do a linkimage.

  • DovefromaboveDovefromabove Posts: 88,140

    And you get the benefit of fresh air, you get to watch wildlife and chat to other allotmenteers  image


    Gardening in Central Norfolk on improved gritty moraine over chalk ... free-draining.





  • kirsteen Jameskirsteen James Posts: 3
    Thanks.
  • Gardengirl..Gardengirl.. Posts: 4,172

    Hello Kirsteen

    I have use thick sheets of cardboard from an industrial estate to cover weeds does well blocks out the light that is what you need other than that digging  - not allowed carpet on my site

    Here is the allotment thread if you want to join us talking and sharing photos and for advice

    http://www.gardenersworld.com/forum/talkback/new-allotment-omg/220407-114.html

    Hampshire Gardener
  • NewBoy2NewBoy2 Posts: 1,813

    http://www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/basics/techniques/soil_growgreenmanure1.shtml

    Everyone is just trying to be Happy.....So lets help Them.
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