Winter garden care: How early weeding and homemade sprays can prevent spring weed infestation

For many of us, the sight of overrun, weed-infested areas can be a serious stress inducer, especially for those of us not particularly fond of weeding. Weed removal often calls for much work and energy, resources that not everyone has in abundance. Fighting weeds doesn't have to be strenuous. February provides a good window of opportunity to start battling garden weeds, granted we have a proper strategy in place.

Winter garden weeding is a largely overlooked yet effective method of tackling weeds before they have a chance to take root. As a result, it's relatively easy to get rid of these unwanted guests, and, more importantly, it doesn't consume a great deal of time or energy. And by starting weeding in February, you'll reap numerous benefits come spring, when your garden truly comes to life.

We also don't need brute strength or a bucket to rid ourselves of weeds, but rather a simple homemade spray. Disheartened by the ephemeral results of hand weeding - and the time it takes - many people have turned to this alternative. Resorting to chemical sprays may not be the best solution either, considering it can seriously damage sidewalk structures and nearby plants. It's best to forego both these methods and choose a safe alternative for combating weed infestation in your garden.

It's not common knowledge that boiling water makes an excellent weedkiller. It's highly effective when poured onto weeds growing from cracks in sidewalks or cobblestones, as it quickly dries out the weeds and does not damage the surrounding structure. A spray made from vinegar and water in a 2:1 ratio is another efficient solution, and far safer than any chemical product. However, when using this mixture, do take care that it doesn't get onto other plants or the lawn, as it could end up causing more damage than good.

Another tried-and-true remedy against garden weeds is a mixture of 1 quart of water, 1/4 cup of salt, 1 cup of vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of dish soap. Simply mix these together and apply it directly to any weeds poking out of the ground. This preparation will instantly affect the weeds, reaching down to their roots.