John W. Everest, Extension Weed Scientist, J. David Williams, Extension Horticulturist, Charles Gilliam, Professor, Horticulture, all at Auburn University Weed Control in Residential Landscape Plantings R esidential landscape plantings soften the architectural design of buildings, provide color and texture to the landscape, and increase the monetary and aesthetic value of property. Such plantings may be only several square feet in size or may occupy several thousand square feet. A single planting may consist of an individual plant, shrub, or tree or it may contain a complex layout of different ornamental shrubs, bulbs, ground covers, and flowers. It is the mixture of plant species in an ornamental planting that makes weed control difficult, if not impossible. This publication will review the possible weed control alternatives available to homeowners and landscape managers.
Weeds are survivors or invaders of open habitats.
The planting area is an ideal environment for the growth of weeds. The environment usually includes exposed or loosened soil, good availability of nutrient elements, and generally favorable moisture. While these factors favor good healthy ornamental plant growth, they also aid in the growth of weeds. Four general practices can provide control of most weed problems in residential landscape plantings. Control practices are measures that limit weed growth in desirable areas.