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Q: We have a 10' X 20" asparagus patch and would like tips on how to stop weeds from taking over. Can mulch be used? Thistle is a huge problem as well as the usual dandelions.
Hardiness Zone: 5b
Thanks for your help.
Kenn Ziebell from, Germantown, WI
A: Kenn,
The best way to control weeds in asparagus beds is to make sure the bed is completely weed-free before planting it. Once asparagus starts to grow, it becomes much more difficult to keep weeds under control. Established beds should be mulched with a weed-free straw or some other type of organic mulch in the early spring, just a shoots are starting to emerge. The few weeds that manage to grow up through the mulch can then be pulled out by hand. If your spears are all cut down to just below ground level, you can try spot spraying a topical organic weed killer on large weeds like dandelions and quack grass. Your asparagus spears will re-emerge as long as you're careful to apply the weed killer only to the weeds. Some sources suggest applying salt to the soil, as asparagus is more tolerant of salt than a lot of other plants. Salt does control weeks, but it can wash into other parts of the garden and damage less salt tolerant plants. It also breaks down the soils structure, so mulching is really the your best bet.
Ellen
About The Author: Ellen Brown is our Green Living and Gardening Expert. Click here to ask Ellen a question! Ellen Brown is an environmental writer and photographer and the owner of Sustainable Media, an environmental media company that specializes in helping businesses and organizations promote eco-friendly products and services. Contact her on the web at http://www.sustainable-media.com
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