If pulling out perennial weeds ensure to pull out the whole of the root to minimise the chance of them returning. When disposing of weeds that you have pulled it is best to burn them and not compost them as many weeds will survive the composting process and return to your garden when you add it to your soil.

 Annual Weeds

Similarly to annual plants, annual weeds complete their cycle in one year. The seeds from annual weeds are generally light and quick to fly and germinate. This is why they must be pulled before they are allowed to produce seeds. When the weeds have seeded they will grow rapidly and quickly tower over existing plants. Seeds may also lay beneath the surface of the soil for years until that soil is cultivated which brings them to the top when they will then grow. Link: Weeding Tools

 Perennial Weeds

Perennial weeds are persistent in that they can survive the colder months by maintaining their reserves in their roots. Woody stemmed perennial weeds keep their reserves in their branches and stems during the winter. Herbaceous weeds die back during autumn and return in spring. Link: Weeding Tools

 Weed Control

The same rules apply for tackling both annual and perennial weeds. Good garden maintenance is essential in preventing weed infestations occurring.

  It is more effective to prepare the soil correctly before planting anything as it is harder to remove weeds from between existing plants. The site should be cleared manually and completely dug over to ensure all traces of weeds are removed.

  When choosing plants pick varieties that are strong and healthy as this will deter weeds from growing there. Plants that have spreading foliage will thwart any attempts at weed germination as they will cast dark shadows over the soil thus cutting out the light underneath. Plants that are grown for ground cover also have the same effect, although some may be invasive thus becoming weeds themselves.

  Mulching the soil is also effective as it will prevent weeds from germinating. Perennial weeds may push through the mulch but as their root system will be developed in the soft matter they can be easily pulled out intact.

  Laying weed membrane over the ground and planting through it will limit the weeds from germinating and pushing through it. Sprinkle a material over the top such as bark or gravel to make it more pleasing to the eye.

  Certain vegetables hold their own against annual weeds and can be grown to aid in garden maintenance as well as a food source.

Obviously some weeds may get through and once they are established other methods may need to be used to get rid of them. There is an array of chemicals on offer to but to help eradicate weeds but ensure you are using the correct one for the job. Weedkillers act on the soil, the leaves or on specific plants. Using the wrong one, especially if you are using it close to your plants, could cause damage that may be irreparable. Always check manufacturers guidelines before using any chemicals and ensure that you are wearing suitable protective equipment if needed. Weedkillers will come with a variety of brand names depending on where you but them but the chemicals inside are what counts. Do not just go for the cheapest option or the biggest bottle, research which one is best for the weed problem you have. Link: Weeding Tools