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Soil Problems

Q.Reusing Weed Ridden Soil

Zone Enfield, London | Anonymous added on June 28, 2021 | Answered

Hi there, I have dug up a thin area of soil – paving stones underneath – as it was covered in weeds. I’m wondering whether to dispose of the soil or to spread some of the soil in the rest of the garden. Can I do anything to it to be sure that I’m not spreading the weeds? Thanks,

A.Answers to this queston: Add Answer
GKH_Susan
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Answered on July 12, 2021

my suggestion would be to remove the existing weeds, then use the soil. It may have weed seeds in it but so does all other ground dirt. The key to preventing germination is to cover the planted soil with mulch.

If you don't have an immediate need for the soil, you can cover the dirt with clear plastic, laying bricks or some kind of weights around the edges to hold the plastic in place. Then leave it for several weeks. The heat generated by the sun will kill the weed seeds.

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/library/gardening/soil-solarization/

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