Chickweed in raised beds - Ask Extension
Hello,
I have several raised beds in beautiful sunny spots in the backyard, however, they are infested with chickweed and it seems to choke most ot...
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Chickweed in raised beds #867056
Asked May 04, 2024, 8:39 PM EDT
Hello,
I have several raised beds in beautiful sunny spots in the backyard, however, they are infested with chickweed and it seems to choke most other things out. I have tried pulling it out over and over, but it doesn't seem to matter how much I weed. It just keeps coming back. I was hesitant to use chemicals because we grow vegetables and herbs.
Do you have any suggestions or ideas?
Thank you!
Anchorage County Alaska
Expert Response
You still have some options. Weed barrier fabric could be laid out on top of the bed, and then you plant through the fabric. Cut a cross shape just big enough to get your vegi or herb start through the fabric. You will still need to weed right around the plants to make sure no chickweed comes through the hole you cut, but most of the other chickweed will not grow under the fabric.
You could try using a weed control product containing corn gluten, this works as a pre-emergent herbicide so has to be put down before the plants germinate. This has mixed results with different weeds and doesn't last super long. It could be worth a try.
There are also pre-emergent synthetic herbicides containing Trifluralin that can work for up to three months. You have to check the label to see what types of vegetables and other things you can use it around or you will risk damaging those plants.
You could try using a weed control product containing corn gluten, this works as a pre-emergent herbicide so has to be put down before the plants germinate. This has mixed results with different weeds and doesn't last super long. It could be worth a try.
There are also pre-emergent synthetic herbicides containing Trifluralin that can work for up to three months. You have to check the label to see what types of vegetables and other things you can use it around or you will risk damaging those plants.
