Subject: Re: Weeds
From: lmesor@aol.com (Lmesor)
Organization: AOL http://www.aol.com
Date: Sun, 10 Aug 1997 14:56:36 -0400
Message-ID: <MOD$970810.2417@rec.gardens.ecosystems>
References: <MOD$970727.7799@rec.gardens.ecosystems>


> it would be very helpful if we knew
>> > the weeds that are causing problems in your particular area
>> > and what kind of organic controls have you found work well
>> > in your conditions.
Two weeds that are troublesome in my area -- Spokane -- are horsetail
(equisetum, whatever) and toadflax (linaria something). I have a small
defined perennial garden. By planting intesively, mulching, and pulling
out unwanted plants, I can keep these two weeds under control. I think
if you keep pulling perennial weeds you eventually weaken the root system
and they don't grow quite as aggressively.

Another weed, stringy algae in ponds, is kind of annoying, but
inevitable. I have tremendous numbers of birds visiting my little ponds
and they're contributing nutrients -- there's a nice euphemism for you.
I've planted water lilies, and I just take a little rake and lift and
twirl the algae like spaghetti. There is a product I'm interested in
that apparently reduces the nutrient load -- it must somehow soak up the
nitrogen, I guess -- but I don't know enough about it yet.
L. M. Rose, Spokane, zone 5
"Set the table, but don't surprise the cat."