They will suppress weeds, but they won't break down and add organic matter to the soil. Such mulches are best left for landscaping beds around shrubs and trees. Polomski also advises against using black plastic. It can also cause excessive heat buildup. He recommends that gardeners use hoes, push plows and roto-tillers sparingly and carefully to cultivate garden rows.
Damaged roots reduce the ability of vegetables and flowers to take up water and nutrients.
He advises against hoeing and plowing during periods of drought. Cultivation will just open up the soil and speed up drying. Polomski said gardeners can achieve some weed control just by growing plants close enough together that the leaves nearly touch. This creates a canopy that shades out many weeds and allows the vegetables to become strong enough to get ahead of the weeds. Clemson Extension does not recommend using chemical herbicides in home gardens.