Ground cover beds are a beautiful, low-maintenance solution for keeping your garden lush and full. But when weeds sneak in, they can quickly take over and compete for space, light, and nutrients. The trick is to clear weeds from ground cover beds without disrupting your established plants—and yes, it can be done with a little care and the right method. Here’s how to tackle the task naturally and effectively.
1. Identify the Type of Weeds First
Before you start pulling, figure out what kind of weeds you’re dealing with—annual or perennial. This helps determine whether hand-pulling will work or if deeper action is needed (especially for weeds with long taproots like dandelions).
Pro tip: Use a small garden trowel or weeding tool to help loosen tough roots without disturbing your ground cover.
2. Hand-Pulling Is Still King—for Now
Yes, it’s tedious, but hand-pulling is one of the safest ways to clear weeds from ground cover beds without damaging your plants. Pull slowly and carefully to avoid uprooting your ground cover. It’s easiest after a rain when the soil is soft.
Shop Recommendations: A narrow weeding knife or hori hori tool is perfect for tight spaces between ground cover plants. Consider using a 2-in-1 Garden Kneeler & Seat with legs to protect your back as well as the legs help minimize damage to the garden bed
3. Mulch Strategically
A layer of natural mulch (like shredded leaves, bark, or pine straw) suppresses new weeds from growing. Spread the mulch between your ground cover plants, being careful not to smother them. This not only reduces weeds but also helps the soil retain moisture.
4. Use a Vinegar-Based Natural Spray (With Caution)
If you have a section with minimal ground cover or you’re dealing with a cluster of weeds in a gap, you can spot-treat with a vinegar-based natural weed killer. Just remember—vinegar doesn’t discriminate, so only spray directly onto the weed.
Amazon Best Seller: Try this organic weed spray for targeted use—it’s pet- and pollinator-safe!
5. Edge and Define Your Bed Regularly
Weeds often sneak in from lawn edges or nearby beds. Use a manual edger or shovel to keep the perimeter clean and defined. This makes it harder for creeping weeds like crabgrass to move in.
6. Maintain and Check Weekly
Even after you clear weeds from ground cover beds, maintenance is key. A 10-minute weekly check can prevent future invasions and keep everything looking tidy. Bonus: it’s a peaceful garden ritual you might even come to enjoy.
Weeds in ground cover beds can feel like a frustrating chore—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With regular care, smart tools, and a natural approach, you can clear weeds from ground cover beds effectively while keeping your landscape healthy and thriving. Plus, once your ground cover fully matures, it’ll help prevent weeds all on its own!
Happy weeding! x
