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May of 2012, we planted 1... #128934

Asked May 21, 2013, 10:10 PM EDT

May of 2012, we planted 1/2 an acre of Mid-Atlantic pollinator mix (~33% little bluestem and native wildflowers). A lot of weeds are popping up. The owner of the farm uses best management practices, and the study revolves around healthy bee populations. Thus we're trying to find an ecofriendly course of action. Also, this is part of my thesis project so is somewhat time sensitive. I plan to visit the site this Friday, so I can take photos and get a better feel for what type of weeds are most prevalent. From what the farmer told me, they're mainly large 'undesirable' grasses. We will likely need to purchase and plant natives to speed up the establishment of the pollinator habitat. What do you recommend? Pulling weeds or spraying? If the latter, what would be safe (to the bees and desirable plants) yet effective? Thank you in advance for your advice :0) Lisa

Frederick County Maryland

Expert Response

The most environmentally friendly thing to do is to pull the weeds.  The next most environmentally friendly thing to do would be to paint glyphosate (RoundUp) on the individual weeds.  You may have to pull or paint more than once.  Persistance is the key to weed elimination.  vw

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