Weeds will always be a problem in gardens, because soils always have weed seeds in them.   Some weed seeds can live in the soil for many years, just waiting for the right circumstances to germinate and develop.  When we cultivate our garden soils, we bring some of these seeds up into the light - and off they go.

There are several methods to control weeds in and around vegetable gardens.  Manual methods, like hand pulling or hoeing can work well and are very safe.  Mulching is another practice that can smother weeds and keep them from growing.  I think a combination works very well.  First hoe the area to rid it of weeds, then use mulch to prevent regrowth.  If the area is not to be used for vegetables, you can use cardboard or newspaper layers which are very effective at smothering weeds (preventing light from reaching the plants).  Water the surface of the soil and of  the mulch layers well, then add bark or other organic mulch on top, to look attractive.  The whole system will eventually break down and add organic matter to the soil.  It can also be replaced.   It takes about 4-6 months to completely kill the weeds in the area if you want to plant it.  If you mulch the areas around your raised beds now, you will be well ahead of the game next spring.

Solarization also works well, but requires sunlight and warm temperatures.  Basically, you cover the area with 2-4 mm plastic sheeting, sealing the edges.  Over 4-6 weeks solar energy will bake the soil and weeds, killing the weed seedlings and some of the seeds in the upper part of the soil. 

Herbicides require more attention and skill.  Herbicide drift frequently occurs when herbicide spray or mist touches cultivated plants and damages them.  Herbicides can also travel through the soil and contaminate it and water sources.  Probably the safest herbicide is one with glysophate as the active ingredient.  When glysophate contacts the soil it is immediately bound and so doesn't spread.  The problem with glysophate is that it kills everything, broadleaf plants and grasses, so you need to be very careful with it - spray only on windless days above 60 degrees.  Always follow the directions on the label of any herbicides you use.

Remember, the goal in vegetable gardening is to have healthy thriving vegetable plants that can outgrow any weeds and withstand any challenges.  This publication from OSU, Vegetable Gardening in Oregon, will give you good basic information on vegetable gardening in our area.

This article, Vegetable Gardening:  Weed Control, gives good advice on controlling weeds in the vegetable garden.

Just a note. Mulch works well to conserve water, discourage weeds and moderate temperatures on your raised beds as well.  In this case it's better to use a fluffier mulch, like straw, dead leaves, wood chips or bark.  A 3" layer in the fall will cut down on the weed population in the spring.