How to Kill Weeds in Your Colorado Rock Beds & Xeriscaping
Keeping your Colorado rock beds and xeriscape looking sharp can be a difficult task, especially when stubborn weeds decide to pop up. Rock landscapes and xeriscaping are popular choices for a low-maintenance outdoor space, but hand-pulling weeds can quickly spoil that. With the right planning, you can kill weeds in your rock beds and prevent a continued weed problem around your Colorado home.
Rock Bed Weed Control & Weed Prevention
Rock beds are known for their aesthetic appeal and low maintenance, but they can also become a breeding ground for unwanted weeds. Preventative treatments and ongoing weed control are crucial to keep your rock landscaping looking pristine.
Pre-emergent Herbicides: The Best Weed Killer
Stopping weeds before they even show up is a game-changer. Pre-emergent herbicides are like a shield against weed seeds, preventing them from germinating in the first place. These selective herbicides target weeds without harming your favorite plants. Apply pre-emergents in your rock beds in early spring to prevent problematic summer weeds, and you’ll be set up for success for the whole growing season. Keep in mind that some types of weeds aren’t preventable, so you may still need to spray weeds or pull weeds here and there.
DIY Tips and Natural Ways to Control Weed Growth in Rock Beds
If you’re taking the DIY route, there are some natural ways to tackle weeds in your rock or garden beds. Some methods work better than others, so hopefully this rock bed weed control guide can save you some time and effort.
Landscape Fabric
An easy trick to control weeds is using landscape fabric as a weed barrier. It smothers new weed growth by keeping sunlight away and stopping weed seeds from sprouting. Tossing some mulch on top of that fabric adds an extra layer of protection, making your rock garden not just weed-free but also looking fantastic.
Boiling Water and White Vinegar
Pouring boiling water or white vinegar on weeds can take them out in no time, but it can also pose a risk to other nearby plants in your flower beds or rock beds. There are horticultural vinegars available to use as a more natural approach to weed control but it is only effective on immature, or new weeds. It doesn’t stop growth in the soil or affect the root systems, meaning the weed problem may continue. If you decide to try using vinegar, you should consider the risk and be very careful. The safest place to use white vinegar as weed control is in cracks in sidewalks, walkways, or gravel paths, where there are no vulnerable plants or turfgrasses nearby.
Rock Salt
If you’re not a fan of using chemicals, no worries! Sprinkle some rock salt on walkways and areas where weeds like to pop up – it’s like a natural weed barrier. Adding a layer of natural mulch not only looks great but also stops weeds from ruining your hard work in your xeriscape.
Hand-Pulling
Some weeds just won’t give up easily. For the persistent ones, roll up your sleeves and try hand-pulling. If you’ve got dandelions or other existing weeds that can’t be prevented, you may want to consider using a weed killer or calling in the pros at Integrated Lawn Care.
How to Protect Your Colorado Xeriscape and Rock Beds from Stubborn Weeds
With the right approach, weed control in your Colorado rock beds and xeriscapes can be manageable and effective. Whether you choose pre-emergent herbicides, DIY methods, or natural solutions, taking proactive steps will help you enjoy a low-maintenance and beautiful outdoor space. Homeowners looking for an effective way to keep weed problems at bay can trust Integrated Lawn Care in Colorado Springs
Professional Rock Bed Weed Control in Colorado Springs
Integrated Lawn Care offers rock bed weed control services for Colorado landscapes and xeriscapes. We know how to tackle stubborn weeds in this climate. We’ve been a top choice for professional lawn care services in the Colorado Springs area since 2001. In addition, we offer organic lawn care fertilization, tree and shrub care, aeration, and more. Contact us today for a free quote!