Weeds and Weeding
Weeds abound in every direction on cultivated land, and wherever there is any kind of soil in which their roots can receive the least encouragement and support. It is sometimes remarked in reference to a piece of land that "Weeds won't grow on it," and this is readily understood as referring to its uselessness for gardening. The length of time during which the seeds of many common Weeds retain their germinative powers is remarkable when, from the removal of ground, or other causes, they become buried too deep to grow until brought again under the more immediate influence of the atmosphere. The rapidity with which soil newly upturned after a long period becomes covered with Weeds will often come under notice, suggesting the existence of seeds which grow only when placed under suitable conditions. Amongst Weeds that, once established, are only with great difficulty eradicated, are Chickweed, Couch Grass, Dandelions, Groundsel, Plantains, and Thistles. The destruction of all these before their seeds ripen, and the frequent use of the hoe during dry weather, are the best plans of preventing their increase. Hand-weeding is the most effectual mode of eradication where there are tap-roots, as in Dandelions, Plantains, and Thistles. The roots of these plants, if left in the ground, will frequently form new crowns in a short time, and grow again. Hand-weeding is also the most certain plan of keeping walks clean; it should be attended to whenever the surface is moist, and everything pulled up should be burned, or put where the seeds are not likely to ripen and sow themselves. Proper Weeding-knives should always be provided along with other garden tools; the work is more readily executed with these than with old knives of other kinds, that are often made to do service. For destroying on a large scale Weeds in walks, salt may be effectually employed, scattered with the hand over the surface, during dry weather, in summer. Smith's Weed-killer, a preparation specially made for walks, has been highly spoken of. Any "destroyer" of Weeds applied to walks must be kept clear of grass and other living edges, and care must also be taken to avoid stepping from a walk on to the grass at the time when a preparation destructive to plant life is being employed.