Weeds are taking over the parking area: one clearance will not be enough
The photograph shows weeds scattered through gravel with fine material between the stones. That explains why weeding alone rarely lasts and what will make the biggest difference now.
The most useful approach here is to combine weeding with restoring the gravel surface. Weeds have already rooted between the stones in your parking area, and there appears to be fine soil, moss and debris at the surface. The gravel is almost acting as a growing bed.
What to do on this surface
- Remove the weeds now, including roots where possible. Perennial weeds with roots left behind will return.
- Scrape or rake away the loose surface fines where soil and moss have accumulated.
- Top up with fresh crushed gravel for a more even, compact top layer. A thin layer helps a little, but several centimetres make more difference.
- Compact the surface or drive over it so that the gravel locks together better. Fewer air spaces and pockets of soil make it less hospitable to weeds.
- Keep the edges beside borders and vegetation clear, as seeds and organic matter often move in from there.
Late September in Sweden is a good time for the main clearance and gravel top-up. Weeds grow more slowly now, and you reduce their head start next spring. If you already intend to add gravel, do not leave it until next summer.
View the case – Case #113
The reader’s original question
How can I stop so many weeds growing in the parking area?
Submitted
Information from the original image
A gravel area with scattered small weeds beside a building and a wooden planter.
Sources and images 1
- Original reader contribution ↗Reader question