DIY Builds
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How deep should gravel be to prevent weeds?

3- to 5-inch A 3- to 5-inch (7.5-12 cm.) layer of gravel can aid in preventing weeds in gravel. Also, make sure that the irrigation from the lawn watering isn't running into the gravel. All that lovely water will facilitate weed growth.

Why should you sleep with your feet covered?
Why should you sleep with your feet covered?

According to research published in "Aviation, Space and Environmental Medicine": Cooling the feet and hands is a very effective way to lower the...

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How much should a 12x20 shed cost?
How much should a 12x20 shed cost?

Based on these factors and more, the general pricing for a 12x20 storage shed starts at $5345 for a standard unit.

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Although we have a poured driveway, my neighbor is not so lucky and the rampant weeds coming though gravel rocks are enough to drive her crazy. She spends the better part of her yard maintenance on the removal of these gravel weed plants. What are some methods for preventing weeds in gravel and/or removing these persistent gravel weed plants?

Gravel Weed Plants

Before attempting to eradicate the weed population in your gravel areas, you should first identify what type of weed you are going to battle with to figure out the best method of elimination. There are three basic types of gravel weed plants: broadleaf weeds, grassy weeds and woody weeds. Broadleaf weeds – these have just that, broad leaves with prominent veins. The leaves atop the weed are alternate and the others appear opposite one another. These weeds usually bloom and are herbaceous with green, not woody, stems. Some of these are: Henbit Purslane Chickweed Dandelion – these have just that, broad leaves with prominent veins. The leaves atop the weed are alternate and the others appear opposite one another. These weeds usually bloom and are herbaceous with green, not woody, stems. Some of these are: Grassy weeds – these include long-spine sandbur and velvetleaf, and resemble overgrown blades of grass. Leaves are long and thin, and grow parallel to each other. – these include long-spine sandbur and velvetleaf, and resemble overgrown blades of grass. Leaves are long and thin, and grow parallel to each other. Woody weeds – these are unrelenting perennials that shed their leaves during the colder months and resume growth in the spring. They often look like small trees or shrubs and, in fact, are usually the result of nearby trees. These include black locust and mimosa.

How to Remove Weeds in Gravel Driveways and Other Areas

Weeds growing in gravel are difficult to remove, let alone control. Of course, some weeds can be hand removed, but often they will return with a vengeance and in greater numbers. Pulling those weeds that are just about to bloom will aid in reducing the number by preventing the plant from going to seed. Some weeds, such as (prostrate spurge), have a deep taproot, making it extremely tough to get rid of by hand. It is a summer annual weed with thick, waxy, leaves with a telltale reddish stripe down the center. Try pulling it before it goes to seed since, once this weed is established, even a weed killer is little help due to the difficulty penetrating the thick waxy leaves. Use a pre-emergent with active ingredients such as pendimethalin or oryzalin for severe infestations.

Can my Neighbour stop me building extension?
Can my Neighbour stop me building extension?

The answer is no, they cannot. They can request additional details which (1) makes things more expensive for you and (2) takes additional time....

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What type of trees add value to property?
What type of trees add value to property?

If you live in a warm area, go for citrus, palm trees, magnolias, and anything with fragrant, exotic blossoms (think frangipane). Fruit trees are...

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Ideally, your gravel area would have a weed barrier laid prior to laying the gravel. Perhaps this didn’t happen, or the barrier (plastic sheeting) is old and full of holes. You can still push aside the gravel, lay a barrier (after eradicating the weeds with a chemical weed killer), and return the gravel to the driveway or like. Lots of work, but it will keep the weeds from growing in the gravel. You can also try laying the gravel more thickly. A 3- to 5-inch (7.5-12 cm.) layer of gravel can aid in preventing weeds in gravel. Also, make sure that the irrigation from the lawn watering isn’t running into the gravel. All that lovely water will facilitate weed growth. Lastly, a chemical weed killer may be the last option. These can be dangerous to you and the environment, so wear appropriate protection prior to spraying and read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Also, some are illegal for use in some areas, so check with your local university extension office for assistance. You may need one that is a selective weed killer if using it abutting flowerbeds or grass. A non-selective weed killer is useful in paved and gravel areas when in doubt of the type of weed you are dealing with. Be careful though, as it will kill or damage other plants.

How do you build a laundry room in a small house?
How do you build a laundry room in a small house?

The key to making a small laundry room layout work is to think vertical. Instead of trying to utilize space horizontally and trying to make counter...

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How can I make my shed look nice?
How can I make my shed look nice?

Browse our list of 10 ways to improve your garden shed, below. Paint your shed. Fix a water butt to your shed. Use your shed to attract wildlife....

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Can firewood get too old?
Can firewood get too old?

As long as firewood is left to sit in the right conditions and free from moisture it won't go bad for many years. Once firewood has been seasoned...

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Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

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Can you pour your own foundation?
Can you pour your own foundation?

We don't suggest pouring your own foundation. It's expensive, time consuming and can be dangerous for DIYers. This is one project that you should...

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