Many homeowners watch in horror as dandelions, crabgrass and other unwanted plants cross property lines, threatening to undo months of careful maintenance
Garden expert’s 6 ‘border control’ tips to keep next door’s weeds at bay(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
A gardening expert has issued six ‘border control’ tips to help people ‘take control of their perimeter’ and keep next door’s pesky weeds at bay.
Many homeowners watch in horror as dandelions, crabgrass and other unwanted plants cross property lines, threatening to undo months of careful maintenance.
Effective strategies to ‘protect your turf’ include creating physical barriers, strategic planting techniques, and proper lawn maintenance, according to Ivana Agustina from ShrubHub.
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She said: “Border control is a serious concern for anyone who takes pride in their yard.
“The good news is you don’t have to accept defeat when faced with weed migration.
“There are practical steps every homeowner can take to protect their turf.”
Ivana’s six expert-approved strategies to stop your neighbour’s weeds invading can be found below.
Create a barrier
Proper edging around the property line can stop weeds in their tracks.
Ivana said: “Deep edging that extends 4-6 inches below the soil surface can block roots from creeping across boundaries.
“Materials like metal, vinyl, or concrete provide excellent separation without looking unfriendly.”
A small trench along the property line can be dug out and filled with mulch or gravel for particularly persistent invaders.
This creates a neutral environment, where neither lawn nor weeds will thrive.
Strategic buffer zone
According to Ivana, dense plantings can create a living wall against weeds.
She said: “Choose fast-growing, thick ground covers or ornamental grasses along your property boundaries.
“Plants like liriope, pachysandra, or even dense shrubs create competition that most weeds simply can’t overcome.”
Maintain a thick lawn
The best defence against weeds was a strong lawn.
“Healthy grass with deep roots naturally crowds out weeds,” Ivana said.
“Focus on proper watering, regular fertilisation, and keeping grass at the right height—around three inches for most varieties.”
Any bare patches should be overseeded immediately to prevent weeds from gaining a foothold.
Targeted herbicides
A chemical intervention is sometimes necessary, Ivana said.
“Pre-emergent herbicides create an invisible barrier that prevents weed seeds from germinating.
“Apply a 2-3 foot strip along your property line in early spring and again in fall for year-round protection.”
Existing weeds already crossing the line, can be treated with post-emergent herbicides, however instructions should be followed and organic options considered for those with pets or environmental concerns.
Use mulch
Applying a thick layer of mulch along property edges can smother weeds before they establish.
Ivana advised: “Apply 3-4 inches of quality mulch in a band along your border.
“This blocks light that weed seeds need to germinate while creating a neat visual boundary.”
Mulch should be refreshed annually, as decomposition reduces its effectiveness.
Wood chips, pine straw, or even rubber mulch can all work well too.
Neighbourly communication
Simply talking to a neighbour can also help as they may not realise their weeds are causing issues.
Ivana said: “A friendly conversation suggesting shared lawn care schedules or offering to help with solutions can resolve issues without creating tension.”
She added: “The biggest mistake I see homeowners make is waiting until weeds have already crossed property lines before taking action.
“By that point, you’re fighting an uphill battle. Most weed problems between neighbouring lawns happen because of different maintenance approaches; one person might be diligent about lawn care while another is more relaxed.
“The root cause is often as simple as different priorities. Some people view dandelions as nuisances, while others see them as beneficial for pollinators.
“That’s why prevention combined with communication is your best strategy. Small habits like regularly inspecting your property lines and addressing issues immediately can save you from major headaches later.”