Keeping Flower Beds Weed-Free with Safe Weed Killers

A beautiful flower bed filled with vibrant blooms is a gorgeous addition to any yard. However, weeds can quickly invade and ruin the aesthetic. Eliminating weeds in flower beds can be tricky. You want to kill the weeds but not damage your precious flowers. Many weed killers contain harsh chemicals that can harm more than just weeds. The key is finding a safe weed killer formulated specifically for use in flower beds. With the right product, you can keep your flower beds weed-free without risking your flowers.

What Makes a Weed Killer Safe for Flower Beds?

When looking for a flower bed weed killer, there are a few things that make a product safe to use around ornamentals

• Selective herbicides – These weed killers target specific weeds but leave desirable plants unharmed Look for products labeled as lawn weed killers or flower bed weed killers

• Natural ingredients – Vinegar, citric acid, clove oil and other plant-derived ingredients provide non-toxic weed control. Though less potent than chemicals natural weed killers are safe for flowers.

• Low toxicity – Avoid products with warnings like “Keep out of reach of children/pets” or skull hazard symbols. Opt for low-risk herbicides that won’t pose health hazards.

• Precise applicators – Sprays, wands and other tools that direct weed killer just on the weeds lower risks of contacting flowers. Granular weed preventers are also flower-safe.

Top Safe Weed Killers for Flower Beds

Here are some of the best safe, effective options for weed control around flowers:

Preen Natural Garden Weed Preventer

This organic pre-emergent weed preventer uses corn gluten meal to stop seeds from sprouting. It’s safe for established flowers but won’t affect weed seeds already in the soil. Reapply every 6-8 weeks.

Preen Garden Weed Preventer

Preen’s synthetic formula prevents new weeds for up to 3 months but won’t harm existing plants. It’s specially formulated not to stain ornamentals. Apply around established plants.

Miracle-Gro Shake ‘N Feed Weed Preventer

This dual-action granular weed preventer also feeds flowers with timed-release nutrients. It’s safe for use around 250+ flower species when used as directed.

Preen Garden Weed Preventer + Plant Food

Another pre-emergent plus fertilizer, this product prevents weeds while encouraging flowers to grow. The plant food is specially formulated not to burn flowers.

Preen Extended Control Weed Preventer

Preen Extended Control provides up to 6 months of weed prevention with one application. The active ingredient won’t leach out of the soil, so flower roots remain protected.

Just For Pets Pet Friendly & Pet Safe Weed Killer

Vinegar-based Just For Pets weed killer quickly dispatches weeds without endangering flowers or pets. The natural formula begins working immediately on contact.

How to Safely Apply Weed Killers Around Flowers

While the above products are designed not to harm flowers when used properly, it’s still smart to take precautions:

• Read all label instructions carefully and follow them exactly. Never exceed recommended application rates.

• Spray weed killers on a calm day to prevent drift onto flowers. Cover nearby plants with plastic or cardboard while spraying.

• With granular weed preventers, sprinkle lightly around flowers and water in gently to avoid scatter.

• Apply weed killers to weeds early in the day to allow proper drying time before nightfall.

• After applying, wash off any flowers that were accidentally contacted using plain water. Monitor for signs of damage.

• Start treatments in a small, inconspicuous area first to check for issues before treating the entire bed.

Keep a Watchful Eye on Flower Beds

The best offense against weeds is a good defense. Routinely scout for weeds in flower beds and pull them as soon as they appear before they get established. For new sprouts, pre-emergent weed preventers can stop many weeds without chemicals. When weeds do get out of hand, use selective weed killers formulated to spare your flowers. With vigilance and the right products, you can enjoy gorgeous, weed-free flower beds all season long.