water and care blog2
All About Weeding
Weeds are simply plants growing in the wrong place. Whether it's crabgrass invading your garden bed or mystery sprouts from last year’s seeds, they all compete for water, space, and nutrients. And in Saudi Arabia’s sun-drenched environment, every drop and root counts.
Why Weeding Matters
Weeds:
- Steal moisture and nutrients from your crops
- Harbor pests and diseases
- Reduce airflow and sunlight at the base of your plants
- Make your garden look messy and neglected
When to Weed
Early is best — remove weeds when they’re still small and haven’t flowered. Once they bloom, they’ll set seeds and multiply fast. After rain is the ideal time: soil is softer, and roots come out more easily.
Tools for the Job
- Gloves: Always protect your hands in Saudi soil — heat, thorns, or sharp roots can be an issue.
- Hand trowel or Hori-Hori knife: For deep-rooted invaders like thistle or dandelion.
- Hoe: Great for slicing through shallow weeds in vegetable beds or borders.
- Vinegar spray: Effective for cracks or hard-to-reach spots — mix 10% vinegar + water for eco-safe control.
How to Remove Different Types of Weeds
Deep-rooted weeds: Loosen the soil around them with a knife, then remove the full root.
Spreading weeds: Slice under the surface with a hoe to sever the roots near the topsoil.
Crack weeds: Spray with vinegar solution or use a crack weeder tool.
How to Prevent Weeds Naturally
- Mulch: Use straw, shredded bark, or dried leaves to smother weeds and keep moisture in.
- Living mulch: Grow squash or nasturtiums to cover soil and block weeds.
- Landscape fabric: Use Weed-X or similar barrier fabric in ornamental areas, topped with natural mulch for aesthetics.
Can Weeds Be Useful?
Surprisingly, yes! Some weeds tell you about soil health:
- Crabgrass: Shows low calcium
- Clover: Grows in nitrogen-poor soil — but adds nitrogen when composted!
- Plantain: Indicates compacted soil needing aeration
Some weeds also feed pollinators or can even be eaten if properly identified. For example, purslane is common in the region and rich in vitamins. Just make sure they’re chemical-free before consuming.
Final Tip: Make Weeding Routine
Walk your garden a few minutes daily. Pulling young weeds regularly is easier and more effective than letting them mature. Combine this with mulching and thoughtful planting to reduce your workload all season.
Green Starts Here.™