Quck answer
To kill weeds under decks, follow these steps:
1. Clear the area: Remove any debris, leaves, or other plants covering the weeds.
2. Use a weed killer: Apply a weed killer specifically designed for use on weeds. Make sure to read and follow the instructions on the label.
3. Spray the weeds: Spray the weed killer directly onto the weeds, targeting the leaves and stems.
4. Repeat as needed: Depending on the severity of the weed infestation, you may need to repeat the weed killer application multiple times.
5. Prevent future growth: To prevent weeds from growing back, consider using a weed barrier or applying mulch to the area under the deck.
By following these steps, you can effectively kill weeds under your deck and prevent them from coming back.
Dealing with weeds under decks can be a challenge. If the deck is high enough to walk under, it’s relatively easy to remove the weeds. However, lower decks make it difficult to access the weeds. The small gaps between the deck boards allow rainwater and some sunlight to reach the ground, creating an ideal environment for weeds to thrive. Using herbicides and ground covers can help eliminate weeds in this area.
Manual Weed Control
If your deck is high enough, you can manually pull out the weeds as they appear. For lower decks with some space between the boards and the ground, you can use a long-handled hoe to cut down the weeds. This method effectively kills annual weeds, but perennial weeds may grow back from the roots, which are hard to remove due to the limited space.
Eliminating Weeds with Herbicides
Chemical herbicides can effectively kill weeds under decks with minimal effort. However, these toxic chemicals can be harmful to you, your pets, and the environment. Non-selective herbicides kill all plants they come into contact with, so it’s important to carefully apply them only to the weeds under your deck. If you choose to use herbicides, opt for an organic option that contains natural ingredients like citrus oil or salt, in addition to the toxic chemicals.
Regardless of the type of herbicide you use, it is crucial to follow the instructions precisely and wear protective gear to prevent contact with the herbicide. When using chemicals, always wear long sleeves, closed-toe shoes, gloves, and safety goggles. Keep children and pets away from the area until the spray has dried. If any weed leaves or stems emerge between the boards, thoroughly coat them with the herbicide. Repeat the application whenever new weeds appear.
Weed-Suppressing Techniques
Rather than constantly monitoring for weeds, you can cover the area under your deck to suppress the growth of weeds and existing seeds. For a temporary solution, spread a layer of mulch, about 2 to 3 inches thick, under the deck. Organic mulch, such as wood chips, breaks down over time. For a more long-lasting solution, use black plastic or landscape fabric. Secure the corners with landscape stakes. The black plastic prevents water and sunlight from reaching the soil, preventing weed seeds from germinating. Landscape fabric blocks weed growth while still allowing water to drain into the soil.
Useful Tips for Weed Elimination
Reducing the amount of water that reaches under your deck can help control weed growth. Instead of using sprinklers that distribute water over a large area, opt for drip irrigation or soaker hoses specifically for the plants near your deck. This method prevents water from reaching the weeds, thus hindering their growth.
To naturally eliminate weeds and prevent future growth, you can apply a homemade organic solution. Start by mixing 1 cup of salt with 2 cups of water. Pour this mixture onto the ground beneath your deck. If you use boiling water, it will effectively kill any existing weeds. The water helps the salt penetrate the soil, altering its salinity and creating an unfavorable environment for most plants. Another natural weed killer option is a mixture of vinegar and a few drops of dish soap. Simply spray this solution onto the weeds, and it will effectively eliminate them without the need for harsh chemicals.
