Banish Weeds By Adding This One Simple Thing To Your Garden Now

Gardeners are being urged to act now to stop weeds from taking over next spring — and one expert says the answer lies in adding lime to the lawn.

Although many people associate weeding with spring and summer, horticulturists point out that autumn is the perfect season to prepare soil for the coming year.

Weeds often begin germinating in late summer and continue through the colder months, ready to grow rapidly once temperatures rise. Taking preventive steps now can strengthen grass and reduce weed growth later.

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Garden expert Simon Akeroyd told gardening specialists at Yell that spreading lime, a fine powder made from ground limestone, can make a big difference.

He explained that lime helps restore balance to the soil’s pH, reducing acidity and creating conditions that are less favourable for weeds to thrive.

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Avoid strenuous weeding by adding lime to your garden

Akeroyd recommends applying lime in autumn, well ahead of spring planting, to give it enough time to work into the soil.

Experts at Gardeners’ World advise carrying out the task on a dry, still day when the soil is slightly damp but not wet, and to wear gloves, a dust mask, and protective clothing while handling it.

How to use it

Gardeners should apply around 50 grams of lime per square metre, scattering it evenly across the lawn. This can help the grass grow thicker and healthier, allowing it to crowd out weeds naturally.

However, too much lime can cause problems. Over-application can make the soil too alkaline, limiting nutrient absorption. High calcium levels can also block plants from taking in magnesium, which is vital for producing chlorophyll, the green pigment plants need for photosynthesis.

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Persistent weeds grow between paving stones

Before using lime, experts recommend testing the soil’s pH to ensure the treatment is necessary.

Applying it correctly in autumn gives the soil time to stabilise and helps gardeners stay ahead of weeds, ensuring lawns and borders remain lush and healthy by spring.

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