{"id":27137,"date":"2024-07-23T00:23:29","date_gmt":"2024-07-23T00:23:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/?p=27137"},"modified":"2026-08-07T23:47:18","modified_gmt":"2026-08-07T23:47:18","slug":"how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-flower-beds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-flower-beds\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Get Rid of Weeds in Flower Beds"},"content":{"rendered":"<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes has-medium-font-size\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><th>Key takeaways<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>\u2022 Hand-pulling is the safest: weed after rain when the soil is loose and remove the full root.<br>\u2022 Household vinegar (5% acetic acid) only kills the seedlings&#8217; tops.<br>\u2022 Horticultural vinegar (20%) is stronger but won&#8217;t kill perennial weed roots.<br>\u2022 A 3-4 inch layer of organic mulch prevents weeds long-term.<br>\u2022 Selective post-emergent herbicides target weeds safely around most established flowers.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Getting rid of weeds in flower beds starts with choosing the right method: pulling them by hand, using organic treatments like vinegar, or applying chemical herbicides for quicker results. Each option offers a way to protect your plants and keep your garden beautiful.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Weeds compete with your flowers for sunlight, water, and nutrients, and the faster you act, the easier they are to control. Managing weeds early, before they set seed, is the most important thing you can do to stay ahead.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;d rather skip the work, Lawn Love can connect you with a professional <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/weed-control\">weed control expert<\/a> in just a click.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-482516fb-523f-41f5-96f6-cfaaf9aee848\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\">In this article:<\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-flower-beds\/#0-best-weed-killers-for-flower-beds-by-situation\" style=\"\">Best weed killers for flower beds (by situation)<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-flower-beds\/#2-prevention-mulch-your-beds\" style=\"\">Prevention: mulch your beds<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-flower-beds\/#3-manual-removal\" style=\"\">Manual removal<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-flower-beds\/#4-organic-weed-killers\" style=\"\">Organic weed killers<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-flower-beds\/#10-chemical-herbicides\" style=\"\">Chemical herbicides<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-flower-beds\/#14-targeted-strategies-for-specific-weeds\" style=\"\">Targeted strategies for specific weeds<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-of-weeds-in-flower-beds\/#19-faqs\" style=\"\">FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 id=\"0-best-weed-killers-for-flower-beds-by-situation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"best-weed-killers-for-flower-beds-by-situation\">Best weed killers for flower beds (by situation)<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-weed-killers-flower-beds\/\">best weed killer<\/a> for your flower beds depends on what you&#8217;re fighting and how established the weeds are. Use this table to match your situation to the right method, then follow the detailed sections below.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"1-best-weed-control-method-for-flower-beds\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"best-weed-control-method-for-flower-beds\">Best weed control method for flower beds<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Situation<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Best method<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Notes<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Flower safe?<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Young\/small weeds<\/td><td>Organic spot spray (vinegar\/clove oil) or hand-pull<\/td><td>Apply on warm, sunny day; won&#8217;t kill roots<\/td><td>Yes, shield if spraying<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Widespread&nbsp;young weeds<\/td><td>Hand pull + non-selective spot spray (glyphosate)<\/td><td>Shield plants; directed spray only<\/td><td>No, avoid all contact<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Deep-rooted perennials<\/td><td>Systemic post-emergent (label-specific)<\/td><td>Apply late summer\/fall<\/td><td>No, shield plants<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Creeping\/spreading weeds<\/td><td>Selective post-emergent<\/td><td>Repeat applications<\/td><td>No, shield plants<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Grassy weeds (emerged)<\/td><td>Selective grass post-emergent<\/td><td>Over-top safe on many broadleaf flowers; label-listed only<\/td><td>Check label<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Grassy\/annual prevention<\/td><td>Pre-emergent herbicide<\/td><td>Apply late winter\/early spring<\/td><td>Check label<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Ongoing prevention<\/td><td>2\u201d-3\u201d organic mulch, dense planting<\/td><td>Apply late winter\/spring; replenish annually<\/td><td>Yes<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <h2 id=\"2-prevention-mulch-your-beds\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"prevention-mulch-your-beds\">Prevention: mulch your beds<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before reaching for any spray or pulling tool, consider mulch, which is the most effective long-term strategy for keeping weeds out of flower beds. A 3- to 4-inch layer of <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-organic-mulch\/\">organic mulch<\/a> (shredded bark, wood chips, or straw) blocks the light that weed seeds need to germinate, according to <a href=\"https:\/\/ipm.ucanr.edu\/home-and-landscape\/weed-management-in-landscapes\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">University of California Integrated Pest Management Program<\/a>.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-mulch\/\">Apply fresh mulch<\/a> in early spring, before weeds start emerging. You&#8217;ll cut your weeding time significantly for the rest of the season.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Coarser mulches can reach 4 inches thick, while finer-textured mulches should stay around 2 inches thick to prevent soil compaction. Avoid piling it deeper than 4 inches to prevent suffocating plant roots. <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/should-you-remove-old-mulch\/\">Replenish your mulch<\/a> annually to maintain weed suppression.<\/p>    <h2 id=\"3-manual-removal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"manual-removal\">Manual removal<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/gardening-2518377_1280.jpg\" alt=\"person wearing gloves while holding weeds they pulled from the ground\" class=\"wp-image-23077\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/gardening-2518377_1280.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/gardening-2518377_1280-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/gardening-2518377_1280-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/gardening-2518377_1280-610x406.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">When removing weeds by hand, be sure to get the root. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/photos\/gardening-agriculture-grass-plant-2518377\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/landscaping-how-to-deal-with-overgrown-weeds\/\">Pulling weeds<\/a> out of your flower beds by hand is simple, doesn\u2019t require chemicals, and gives you immediate results.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Best tools for manual removal<\/strong>:<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Tool<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Characteristics<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Cost<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/top-lawn-care-tools-to-have-in-your-arsenal\">Hand weeder<\/a><\/td><td>Looks like a screwdriver with a forked end<\/td><td>$15<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Hori hori knife<\/td><td>A sharp garden knife with measurement marks on the blade<\/td><td>$26<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Stand-up weed puller<\/td><td>Long-handled tool with claws or spikes at the base<\/td><td>$30<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Garden trowel or hand shovel&nbsp;<\/td><td>Small hand shovel for digging roots<\/td><td>$10<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Weed by hand after rain or watering, as damp soil makes roots easier to pull. Use a tool to loosen the soil around the weed, then pull it from the base. Dispose of weeds properly, either in compost or a garden bag, depending on the type. Don\u2019t leave them lying around; some can still spread seeds or re-root after being pulled.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/why-weeds-grow\/\">Why Do Weeds Grow<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"4-organic-weed-killers\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"organic-weed-killers\">Organic weed killers<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Weeds have a way of sneaking into flower beds, no matter how often you pull them. For a chemical-free fix, try natural solutions like vinegar or essential oils.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just know, most organic solutions don\u2019t kill weeds as quickly or thoroughly as <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/pros-cons-homemade-weed-killers\/\">chemical herbicides<\/a>. You will need patience and repeated applications.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>    <h3 id=\"5-vinegar\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"vinegar\">Vinegar<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Vinegar\u2019s acidity makes it an effective natural weed killer, especially in warm, sunny weather. For best results, use horticultural vinegar, not household vinegar. For a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/does-vinegar-kill-weeds\/#:~:text=Our%20vinegar-,weed%2Dkiller%20recipe,-is%20organic%2C%20affordable\">vinegar weed killer<\/a> recipe, mix vinegar with a little dish soap and salt.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Household vinegar often fails because its low acidity only burns the surface, and homeowners usually make the mistake of applying it on cool, cloudy days instead of in the scorching midday sun,&#8221; says Andrew Day, owner at <a href=\"https:\/\/aql4u.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Advanced Quality Lawn<\/a> in Northeast Ohio.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Kevin Thompson, an ISA Certified Arborist and owner of <a href=\"https:\/\/sylvanscapes.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sylvan Scapes<\/a> in Staunton, VA, agrees that timing makes all the difference.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cHousehold vinegar works faster in full sun and heat, but most homeowners apply it on cloudy days or in the evening when it needs UV exposure and warmth to activate properly. Timing the application to early morning on a sunny, dry day makes a real difference in how hard it hits.&#8221;&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep in mind that vinegar usually kills only the top of the plant, not the roots, so repeat treatments may be needed. When applying, be careful, as vinegar can damage your flowers too. Use a piece of cardboard to shield nearby flowers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>    <h3 id=\"6-boiling-water\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"boiling-water\">Boiling water<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Boiling water is one of the easiest ways to <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/pros-cons-homemade-weed-killers\/\">kill weeds<\/a>. Just pour it directly onto the weed, and the heat will destroy the plant cells on contact. It\u2019s especially effective on small, shallow-rooted weeds. Use it carefully around your flowers, as boiling water can damage any plant it comes into contact with. Tougher weeds may need a second treatment.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A narrow-spouted tea kettle gives you the best aim and keeps your hands safely away from the steam.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>    <h3 id=\"7-salt\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"salt\">Salt<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Salt dehydrates weeds and blocks nutrient absorption. A simple mix of 1 cup of salt to 1 gallon of water can be applied directly to weeds. However, use it with caution; salt can stay in the soil, preventing anything from growing there for a long time.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you must use salt near your flower beds, apply it with a small brush directly to the leaves of the weed instead of pouring it into the soil.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-use-salt-to-kill-weeds\/\">How to Use Salt to Kill Weeds<\/a><\/p>    <h3 id=\"8-corn-gluten-meal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"corn-gluten-meal\">Corn gluten meal<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/7604800852_b0a2c2d9fa_o-2.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of granular corn gluten meal scattered on a white surface, showing its fine, yellowish-brown, coarse texture.\" class=\"wp-image-36950\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/7604800852_b0a2c2d9fa_o-2.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/7604800852_b0a2c2d9fa_o-2-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/7604800852_b0a2c2d9fa_o-2-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/7604800852_b0a2c2d9fa_o-2-510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/7604800852_b0a2c2d9fa_o-2-610x458.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Corn gluten meal is a natural pre-emergent. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/phuthinhco\/7604800852\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Phu Thinh Co<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/all-natural-and-organic-weed-killers\/\">Corn gluten meal<\/a> (CGM) is a natural product that has shown some success as a pre-emergent: In university trials, it has reduced certain annual weeds when applied at high rates and timed just before germination, but when there are a lot of weeds, corn gluten meal is not as effective.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It also adds nitrogen to the soil, which can boost plant growth. Because CGM can inhibit all seeds, avoid using it in areas where you\u2019ve just planted flower seeds you want to grow.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"9-natural-oils\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"natural-oils\">Natural oils<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/kill-weeds-permanently\/\">Essential oils<\/a> like clove, cinnamon, and peppermint oil can kill small, young weeds by drying them out. These natural oil-based products are often sold as organic weed sprays. They are non-selective, so they can harm any plants they come into contact with.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shake the bottle often while spraying. <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-make-homemade-weed-killer\/#:~:text=%E2%9C%97%20Don%E2%80%99t%20overwater-,Essential%20oils,-and%20vinegar%20spray\">Natural oils<\/a> can separate in water-based mixtures, and shaking ensures you\u2019re delivering an even treatment.&nbsp;<\/p>    <h2 id=\"10-chemical-herbicides\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"chemical-herbicides\">Chemical herbicides<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/weed-killer-herbicide.jpg\" alt=\"A man is spraying weed killer herbicide on green grass in a yard\" class=\"wp-image-42074\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/weed-killer-herbicide.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/weed-killer-herbicide-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/weed-killer-herbicide-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/weed-killer-herbicide-610x406.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Pre-emergent herbicides are the most practical treatment for an entire lawn. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/man-spraying-weed-killer-herbicide-on-green-grass-residential-yard-landscaper-using-pump-chemical-pesticide-sprayer-for-lawn-weed-control\/1393394499\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Scott Habermann<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For widespread weed problems, chemicals are the most practical choice.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"11-selective-post-emergents\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"selective-post-emergents\">Selective post-emergents<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Selective <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-apply-post-emergent-herbicides\/\">post-emergent herbicides<\/a> kill specific types of weeds, like <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/broadleaf-weeds-vs-grassy-weeds\/\">broadleaf weeds or grassy weeds<\/a>, without harming other types of plants. However, some flowers could still be sensitive to the chemicals. That\u2019s why you need to double-check the product label to confirm it\u2019s safe for your specific flowers.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;To safely test a selective post-emergent like Ornamec 170, use a small paintbrush to coat a single leaf on your ornamental during a calm morning between 60-90 degrees,&#8221; Day says. &#8220;This &#8216;wicking&#8217; technique prevents chemical drift and lets you check for discoloration over a few days before committing to a full application.&#8221;<\/p>    <h3 id=\"12-non-selective-herbicides\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"non-selective-herbicides\">Non-selective herbicides<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-weed-killers\/\">Non-selective herbicides<\/a> kill almost anything green they come into contact with. These are powerful and should be used with caution in flower beds. Always protect nearby flowers by covering them or using a shielded spray nozzle.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use a piece of cardboard or a plastic shield to cover your flowers while spraying. It\u2019s a simple trick that can save your flowers.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>    <h3 id=\"13-pre-emergent-herbicides\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"pre-emergent-herbicides\">Pre-emergent herbicides<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-pre-emergent-herbicides\/\">Pre-emergent herbicides<\/a> prevent weed seeds from germinating.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cThe most common timing error with pre-emergents is waiting for visible weeds to appear, but the chemical barrier must be established before warmer <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/tips-spring-lawn-care\/\">soil temperatures<\/a> activate dormant seeds,\u201d Day says.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thompson says this requires looking at the ground, not the calendar.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;Pre-emergent timing isn&#8217;t just about the calendar, but about soil temperature,&#8221; he explains. &#8220;I&#8217;ve watched homeowners follow a neighbor&#8217;s schedule and miss the window entirely because one property sits lower and stays cooler longer. Soil thermometers cost almost nothing and take the guesswork out completely.&#8221;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some pre-emergents are safe for established flower beds, but you\u2019ll need to check the product instructions carefully, as they can also block flower seeds if you\u2019re planting anything new.<\/p>    <h2 id=\"14-targeted-strategies-for-specific-weeds\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"targeted-strategies-for-specific-weeds\">Targeted strategies for specific weeds<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some weeds are very persistent and require specific approaches for effective control. Take a look at the most common weeds and the best ways to manage each one.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>    <h3 id=\"15-deep-rooted-perennials\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"deep-rooted-perennials\">Deep-rooted perennials<\/span><\/h3>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Examples<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-dandelions\/\">Dandelion<\/a>, Canada Thistle<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Deep-rooted perennial weeds are tough because even a small piece of their root left behind can grow into a new plant.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For manual removal, Thompson finds that traditional pulling often backfires<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&#8220;For deep-rooted perennials like thistle or dock in an established bed, the most effective approach I&#8217;ve found is cutting the root several inches below the crown with a narrow spade rather than pulling,&#8221; he says. &#8220;Pulling snaps the root and leaves the regenerative tissue in the ground. That&#8217;s why the same weed comes back in the exact same spot every time.&#8221;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For bigger infestations, Day says to \u201cskip the hand-pulling and use a systemic post-emergent herbicide like RoundUp applied directly to the leaves to ensure the product reaches the entire taproot.\u201d<\/p>    <h3 id=\"16-creeping-and-spreading-weeds\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"creeping-and-spreading-weeds\">Creeping and spreading weeds<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"601\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Bindweed.jpg\" alt=\"close up of light pink colored bindweed flower with green grass in background\" class=\"wp-image-24760\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Bindweed.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Bindweed-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Bindweed-768x577.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Bindweed-510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Bindweed-610x458.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Bindweed. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Field_Bindweed_%28Convolvulus_arvensis%29_%2824270675111%29.jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Peter O&#8217;Connor aka anemoneprojectors<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/deed.en\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Examples<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-ground-ivy\/\">Ground ivy<\/a>, bindweed<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Creeping weeds spread via underground stems (rhizomes) or above-ground runners, making them difficult to remove. The University of Wisconsin Extension notes that these weeds can spread quickly and are difficult to pull up completely once established.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For larger patches, <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/types-of-post-emergent-herbicides\/\">selective herbicides<\/a> containing triclopyr can help control them.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>    <h3 id=\"17-persistent-broadleaf-weeds\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"persistent-broadleaf-weeds\">Persistent broadleaf weeds<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thistle.jpg\" alt=\"closeup of a pink colored thistle plant\" class=\"wp-image-24764\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thistle.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thistle-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thistle-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thistle-510x382.jpg 510w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Thistle-610x458.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Thistle. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/55935853@N00\/865577045\/in\/photolist-RQifPg-X5PmhW-eikSZE-bcE9P-2juiUa-39FGkH-6WnzuC-8gzQdK-28AqCKA-JMr5XJ-6SRyCY-oA9kne-9dvQ8C-fnPNHq-8p8Ncc-4Qkngc-6DTk5i-eifa4M-eif9wp-8jyzxy-ad5AwN-5BezWH-6M9T4e-deqpJw-5hCaTd-8uvPH8-811F1W-5e6Bcg-9dqeMV-duiTXH-6xyr3f-5hCcKj-c6DHV7-9WRPEb-2zF41K-8okFwL-xdywBQ-SNTfM-c1fY7Y-MHwpQd-2LKzsx-4QpzZu-54MieZ-2Zd9UB-54uyE7-VpfBn-BF2jEH-2bexNJG\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ewan Munro<\/a> \/ Flickr \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY-SA 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Examples<\/strong>: Thistle, plantain, purslane<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-identify-control-broadleaf-weeds\/\">broadleaf weeds<\/a> have thick leaves and strong roots, which make them hard to kill. Try to pull these weeds when they are young.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For mature plants, apply selective herbicides during the weed\u2019s active growth period. According to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.udel.edu\/academics\/colleges\/canr\/cooperative-extension\/fact-sheets\/Considerations-for-Herbicide-Use-in-Pastures\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">University of Delaware Extension<\/a>, combining 2,4-D and dicamba is a standard, often effective treatment for controlling many broadleaf weeds when applied at the appropriate growth stage.<\/p>    <h3 id=\"18-grassy-weeds\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"grassy-weeds\">Grassy weeds<\/span><\/h3>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"531\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/1024px-Smooth_crabgrass_18654293279.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of crabgrass plant with narrow, pointed green leaves and visible dew drops, growing densely in a grassy area.\" class=\"wp-image-26207\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/1024px-Smooth_crabgrass_18654293279.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/1024px-Smooth_crabgrass_18654293279-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/1024px-Smooth_crabgrass_18654293279-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/1024px-Smooth_crabgrass_18654293279-610x405.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Crabgrass. Photo Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Smooth_crabgrass_(18654293279).jpg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">NY State IPM Program at Cornell University from New York<\/a> \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Examples<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/what-is-crabgrass\/\">Crabgrass<\/a>, foxtail, <a href=\"https:\/\/myfineyard.com\/weed\/quackgrass\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">quackgrass<\/a><\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-identify-and-control-grassy-weeds\/\">Grassy weeds<\/a> are tricky because they look like lawn grasses, but they are not. Anthony J. Koski, a specialist and professor at Colorado State University, recommends using pre-emergent herbicides to prevent annual grassy weeds like crabgrass from sprouting.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-control-weeds-by-type\/\">How to Control Weeds by Type<\/a><\/p>    <h2 id=\"19-faqs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776219507775\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How do I kill grass growing in my flower beds?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Use a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/common-lawn-weeds\/\">grass-selective herbicide<\/a> containing fluazifop-p-butyl or sethoxydim. For small patches, hand-pull after watering. Spring pre-emergent herbicides prevent new grass seed from germinating.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776219516780\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How often should I weed my flower beds?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Try to weed every 1-2 weeks during the spring and summer. A thick layer of mulch significantly reduces the frequency of weeding.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776219522063\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can I use mulch and a pre-emergent herbicide together?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. Clean out existing weeds, spread 2-3 inches of mulch, apply and water in a pre-emergent herbicide, and water it in. Check your pre-emergent label, as some allow or even prefer application to bare soil before mulching, while others recommend applying over the mulch.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 id=\"20-say-goodbye-to-garden-invaders\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span id=\"say-goodbye-to-garden-invaders\">Say goodbye to garden invaders<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keeping weeds out of your flower beds takes effort, but with the right methods and a little persistence, you can keep your garden looking its best. And if you\u2019d rather save time and get lasting results, Lawn Love can connect you with a professional <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/weed-control\">weed control expert<\/a> to keep your flower beds looking great.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image: Gardener removing dandelion weeds from a flower bed. Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/photo-of-gloved-woman-hand-holding-weed-and-tool-removing-it-from-soil\/149614921\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Maksim Kostenko<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Eliminate weeds in flower beds by pulling them from the root with a spade, applying a thick layer of organic mulch, or using targeted post-emergent herbicides.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":68,"featured_media":27138,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[298],"tags":[222],"class_list":["post-27137","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-landscaping","tag-landscaping"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/weed-removal-1.jpeg","author_info":{"display_name":"Adrian Nita","author_link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/author\/adrian-nita\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27137","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/68"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=27137"}],"version-history":[{"count":18,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27137\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":48210,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/27137\/revisions\/48210"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/27138"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=27137"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=27137"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=27137"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}