If the Weeds Are Young and Tender

• 1). Mow the young weeds down with a lawn mower or a string trimmer.
  
  
• 2
  
  
  Turn them under with a shovel (the hard way) or with a rototiller (the easy way). This is actually plowing, the same as the pioneers did. Young weeds will quickly decompose, adding nutrients and improving the texture of your existing soil.
  
  
• 3
  
  
  Plant your garden and then lay down a layer of mulch to prevent weeds from returning. Lay down a thick layer of mulch once the garden has been planted.
  
  
• 4
  
  
  Pull new weeds by hand as they appear.