Weed Control for Flower Bulbs

A weed-free flower bulb bed offers visual appeal.

Flower bulbs often produce the first blossoms of spring; other varieties flower late in the summer season. Most bulbs grow as perennials and spread by producing smaller bulbs. Beds comprised of flower bulbs require aggressive weed control to maintain the overall health and growth of the flowering plants.

Natural Methods

Consider applying a layer of mulch around flower bulbs. Applying 2 to 4 inches of mulch will help to prevent weed growth naturally. Daily monitoring of the flower beds and hand-pulling any weeds that appear will help to control weed growth. Discard the weeds after pulling.

Considerations

Avoid using postemergence herbicides in flower beds that have flowering bulbs. The postemergence herbicide will damage all flower bulbs except iris and gladiolus bulbs, according to the North Carolina State University's website. Iris and gladiolus bulbs will tolerate postemergence herbicides that contain sethoxydim. Consider spot-treating certain weeds with glyphosate.

Preemergence Herbicides

Numerous brands of preemergence herbicides control weeds well when applied around flowering bulbs. Look closely at the label to determine if the herbicide is safe to use around each particular bulb in your flower bed. Follow the directions on the label for application instructions to avoid possible harm to the bulbs.

References

• North Carolina State University: Perennial Bulbs Care and Mainetance
• Planet Natural: How To Control Weeds
• University of California: Floriculture and Ornamental Nurseries

Resources

• Grow It: Flowering Bulbs and Corms