However, with perennial weeds, cultivation may initially create a larger problem. Cultivation breaks perennial weeds and their root systems into smaller pieces which grow into entire plants. Frequent cultivation is often needed to control perennial weeds. Be sure to remove as many weed parts as you can so the weeds are not allowed to reroot and grow. A second disadvantage of cultivation is that many vegetables have shallow root systems.
Frequent cultivation can damage their roots and reduce potential yields.
Use care when cultivating around such plants as squash, cucumbers, melons and tomatoes. Mulches, both organic and synthetic, can be quite effective in reducing or eliminating annual weeds. Synthetic mulches, such as black plastic, are also effective for controlling perennial weeds. Unfortunately, most perennial weeds have enough food reserves to push through a layer of organic mulch. Mulches prevent light from reaching the soil surface and inhibit weed seed germination and growth.