A GARDENING expert says there’s a better way to beat weeds without relying on harsh tricks or chemical sprays.
In across the UK, weeds are a common headache.
They sprout in patio cracks, creep through flower beds, and quickly take over any unattended patch of soil.
But before you grab the kettle or a bottle of , it might be time to take a gentler, smarter approach.
Melissa Quinney, gardening expert at Cabin Master, says the key to weed-free spaces is rethinking how we manage our gardens, and letting nature do more of the work.
“A high-maintenance garden is often a cluttered one,”; she explains.
“If you’re always weeding and clearing, consider planting ground cover like creeping thyme or clover.
“These plants suppress weeds by covering the soil, reducing the space and sunlight weeds need to grow.”;
Creeping thyme is a top choice for sunny borders and garden paths.
It spreads low and wide, smells lovely when stepped on, and adds beauty as well as function.
It’s also tough and low-maintenance, perfect for busy gardeners.
Clover, meanwhile, not only stops weeds but also boosts your garden’s health.
“It improves soil by fixing nitrogen,”; says Melissa.
“That means your other plants will benefit, too, and you don’t need chemical fertilisers.”;
Also avoid disturbing the soil too much.
Many gardeners make the mistake of constantly digging or turning over flower beds, thinking it helps.
But it can actually bring buried weed seeds to the surface, giving them a better chance to grow.
Melissa recommends a “no-dig”; approach instead.
“If you’ve got piles of fallen leaves, leave them in place,”; she advises. “Let them break down into mulch.
“It’s free, it locks in moisture, and it helps stop weed seeds from taking hold.”;
She adds: “Nature has a way of tidying itself if we let it.
“The more you work with it, the less time you spend battling weeds — and the more time you get to enjoy your garden.”;
Many people see boiling water as a chemical-free fix for weeds.
It’s quick, cheap and easy, just pour it on and watch the leaves shrivel up.
But this method can cause more harm than good.
Boiling water damages plant cells on contact, but it rarely kills the root completely.
That means the weed can return within days, often tougher than before.
Worse still, it’s hard to control. A splash too far and you could scald nearby plants or damage your lawn.
It’s especially risky in flower beds, borders or vegetable patches.
White vinegar is another popular option, but it’s acidic and can alter your soil’s pH, which may affect future plant growth.
Instead of using harsh methods, Melissa says to think long-term.
“With the right ground cover, smart soil care and less digging, you’ll spend far less time pulling weeds and far more time enjoying your space.”;
