Weed Control in Pansy Beds
Pansies are cool-season flowers used as container and bedding plants. Grown as annuals in cold climates and perennials in temperate climates, these flowering plants benefit from a weed-free environment. Typical weed controls include pre-emergent herbicides, mulches and hand-weeding. Does this Spark an idea?
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Herbicide
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Weeds compete with flowers for water and nutrition. An herbicide applied three weeks before planting can help prevent weeds from emerging in pansy beds. Only an herbicide specifically recommended for flower gardens should be used. Some herbicides have residual effects that stunt flower growth.
Mulch
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Mulch offers a nonchemical alternative to herbicides. A 2-inch layer of organic mulch, such as peat moss, bark chips or compost, provides moisture retention and suppresses weeds. Mulch should be spread only around established plants; mulch applied before the plants have emerged and become established can smother them.
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Weeding
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Hand-pulling of weeds remains a necessary task. If addressed while seedlings are young, before roots are established, the weeds pull easily from moist soil. Watering soil before pulling makes the task easier.
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References
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