Everyone loves gardens & everyone absolutely hates weeds.  After you have prepared the grounds in the area or areas you plan to plant, whether it is flowers, plants or vegetables, here are some helpful tips on keep those annoying weeds at bay.

It is worthwhile to invest in one or more rolls of weed barrier cloth aka weed control cloth. Carefully measure the areas which you plan to put this down, then cut to fit the areas. You may either plant first & then put down the cloth & cut around the areas where your flowers, vegetables, etc. will come up or put the cloth down first & then cut sections just big enough to dig the ground where you plan to place your plants.  High quality weed barrier cloths should last at up to 5 years, even in harsh climates.  Also, after you have placed the cloth down be sure to anchor it down by either burying the edges in the ground or using small rocks to hold it in place.

If you wish to prevent weed control even further, BEFORE putting your weed control cloth in place, you may wish to use a pre-emerge herbicide to the cleared bed first. Do not use weed killers that will sterilize the soil in flower beds.

The next and also very important step is to add your choice of mulch directly on top, with thicker amounts of mulch directly around your flowers, vegetables, etc. Mulch may be purchased at any home improvement stores, garden centers or nurseries. Mulch comes pre-packaged in bags, which is fine for gardeners who plan to have smaller gardens. For larger gardens, mulch purchased by the yard or in bulk not only saves money & time but is also much more convenient.  Mulch purchased in large amounts can also be delivered - just be sure to have an area set aside where you would like your mulch left.  Be sure to cover any mulch when you are not using it in your garden.

There are many different varities of mulch.  One of the best types of mulch & also one of the most expensive is licorice root.  Red cedar mulch is less expensive and also very attractive.  One should place at least 3-4 inches of muclh down for best results.  Mulch is not only an effective part of keeping the weeds at bay, but when you water your garden, mulch retains the mositure in the ground.  And mulch also keeps the soil warm in winter to allow for more root growth.

It is also wise to take into consideration that wood mulches attract termites & carpenter ants. It is best to steer clear of  wood mulch.

Should you discover that after all your hard work to maintain a weed-free garden, weeds have somehow managed to invade your garden, if you immediately remove the weeds, making sure you also remove the weeds's roots, everything else should be the regular maintenance & pest control of your garden.