Herbicides.
Like many gardeners, I only use herbicides in minimal doses and only then, when I find no alternative for them. My husband, however, when we tame a part of the garden that is densely overgrown with weeds, mainly nettle or ground elder, likes to use chemicals containing glyphosate. Our compromise is this, that after the initial application of the herbicide, we continue to fight the weeds manually. In any situation, it is worthwhile to think carefully first, whether the use of chemicals is really the only option, or are there other ways to solve the problem.
Various types of herbicides can be found on store shelves. However, when we take a closer look at them, it will come out, that the same active substance is very often hidden under different names. Having chosen a specific measure, let's check it out, after what time from its application we can plant the plants. Some chemicals in soil can act for up to two years (these are mainly measures for weeding paths or roads). It is better not to plant any crops during this time.
Glyphosate
Spray the green parts of the plants with herbicides containing glyphosate. The preparation penetrates the cuticle, attacking the inside of the plant, both in its aerial parts, and underground. In the ground, glyphosate is biodegradable, therefore we can start planting new plants as soon as the weeds have died. Glyphosate herbicides are not selective. We must therefore be careful, so as not to spray them on plants grown in the garden. Spraying can be carried out both in the summer, during the period of weed growth, and autumn. A few years ago, my husband and I cleaned the bed covered with ground elder, leaving only the larger bushes, and then sprayed with glyphosate-containing agent. We waited, until the weeds reappear and then we spray a second time. After it, we dug the flowerbed and planted new plants.
In the following year, the ground elder bounced weakly enough, that it was easy to remove manually.
Application of herbicides:
• Before applying a herbicide, read carefully the leaflet attached to it, containing information about safety measures and conditions, in which it should be used.
• Use the measure at the right time and in the right weather conditions.
• Safety first! Never underestimate the recommendations regarding protective clothing.
• Be especially careful when preparing the solutions. The container with the concentrate should be closed immediately after use and the recommended concentrations should not be exceeded.
• Do not spray in windy weather. A wind-blown herbicide can damage your lawn and garden plants.
• We store herbicides in places inaccessible to children and animals, preferably locked.
