For the first few seasons after you plant a ground cover, you'll usually have to do some hand weeding or apply a mulch, but as the cover grows and spreads to form a tight carpet, weed growth is much reduced. Smothering effectively kills weeds in areas earmarked for future planting. Overlap these materials so weeds can't grow through the cracks. Anchor the covering in place with a layer of bark chips or other organic mulch. Like any other seeds, weed seeds require sunlight, warmth, and moisture to germinate and grow.
Mulches block light from the soil below, thus preventing the seedlings from becoming established.
They also help keep soil moist and modulate its temperature. You can choose from organic or inorganic mulches. All rights reserved. The sooner you start regular weeding, the faster you'll get your weeds under control . And be certain to pull annual weeds before they set seed, or you'll have more to pull next year.