Imagine if I told you that one clever planting choice this fall could reduce your weeding job by 90%? These 14 aggressive perennials create such no-weed zones, even the most stubborn dandelions give up.
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Check PriceChoosing the right plants is not enough. You also need to know how to position them like a general deploying troops throughout the garden beds. Each perennial attacks weeds differently. Some use root systems that go deep underground, and others develop a full canopy that completely blocks sunlight.
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1. Catmint (Nepeta)
Catmint is a different plant than catnip. It is a garden fighter forming a spread of 2 to 3 feet and blooms from spring to late fall. With its rich and aromatic foliage, it creates a carpet that is impenetrable to weeds and other plants.
2. Alchemilla mollis
The one of a kind shield like leaves capture moisture, block light, and defend against weeds. For complete ground coverage in two growing seasons, plant them with an 18 inch spacing.
3. Coral Bells (Heuchera)
Even though the leaves look delicate, coral bells produce strong clusters that increase in size each season. Their shallow roots help to anchor the soil, making it impossible for weeds to grow. After becoming established, they are almost entirely maintenance free.
4. Hardy Geranium (Geranium)
These perennials are a powerhouse! Forget those yearly geraniums in the pots. These beauties can spread from two to four feet wide. They return strongly from any harsh weather conditions and are great at smothering weeds while producing a large quantity of stunning flowers.
5. Hosta
The large leaves do more than just provide shade, they also supress weeds. Their ability to block sunlight is what allows them to stop any growth below them. So for more coverage, go for larger types like 'Sum and Substance.'
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6. Ajuga (Bugleweed)
This perennial grows along the ground and sends out runners, which creates a natural mulch layer that inhibits the establishment of weeds. The purple flower spikes provide visual interest and all the foliage does the work of competing with weeds.
7. Pachysandra
Pachysandra is a classic ground cover plant for shady areas. Its dense mats are able to outcompete even grass. Once established, the plant needs no maintenance and will spread to fill all vacant spaces.
8. Astilbe
Dense clusters of tender feathery plumes help to add texture to shade gardens as well as block weeds. Their roots form dense networks which aid in weed seed germination.
9. Daylilies (Hemerocallis)
Each plant generates multiple arching leaves which create dense enough foliage fountains to smother neighboring plants. Newer cultivars bloom more frequently and quickly expand to cover large areas.
10. Sedum (Stonecrop)
These are great for sunny places where weeds occur. Their leaves store water and create a thick mat, so they do not need irrigation. They also completely stop weed growth.
11. Wild Ginger is scientifically named Asarum canadense.
Wild ginger forms thick, living mulch in shady areas of the woods in the form of overlapping heart shaped leaves. Wild ginger expands very slowly each year as it takes more territory from weeds.
12. Stachys byzantina is the scientific name for Lamb's Ear.
These soft mats made from silvery leaves, usually reach a height of 12-18 inches. Weeds cannot grow through the mats. The soft leaves also discourage damage from deer and rabbits. Once established, the plants need very little water.
13. Bee Balm (Monarda)
This species expands aggressively through underground rhizomes and forms colonies that can outcompete weed species. It also provides food for some pollinators. The aromatic foliage of this native can also repel some pests in the garden.
14. Athyrium niponicum or Japanese Painted Fern,
Every year, the broad clusters of silvery fronds expand to create living walls that protect the shaded area from weed invasion. This species is distinctive, unlike most ferns, and stays compact while spreading horizontally, claiming more space.
When mature perennial spreads overlap a little, it forms a living mulch. This means that weed seeds will never be able to germinate. In just two growing seasons, you will have created an attractive, long-lasting, and low-maintenance solution for weed control that will be far more effective than any synthetic herbicides.
