This effective, environmentally friendly product kills annual weeds before they start growing
Managing weedsorganically can truly be a challenge . After some experimentation , I have found that corn gluten meal ( CGM ) is showing very promising results in control the yearly weeds that bulge out up in tree bottom , lawn , and establishedgarden beds .
CGM is a by - merchandise of the tight milling process used to produce maize amylum and corn syrup . This natural product contains proteins with herbicidal properties that do not prevent sprouting but instead hinder the development of roots after germination . With a limited root organisation , the weed seedlings are not able to take up enough water or nutrient to survive .
Timing and Environmental Factors Are Important
As with most organic pot control condition products , the timing of app and the environmental ingredient are important . CGM should be applied just before weed cum lead off to germinate . If finger grass is your major foe , utilise CGM when the forsythia start to bloom or when soil temperatures reach 50 ° F . Applied at a rate of 20 hammering per 1000 straightforward foot , it can reduce crab grass ontogenesis by 60 % , and the results may be even better if the ware is apply at a higher rate .
Common annual weed that CGM can aid in control
Uses in the Vegetable Garden
In the veggie garden , it can be employ after direct - seeded crop or transplants have become established . As a bonus , CGM contains about 10 % atomic number 7 by loudness and can therefore dissemble as a slow - departure rude fertilizer for your nitrogen - bonk veggies . But as good as it is at suppress the growth of new seedlings , CGM will not control existing recurrent grass if their root word scheme are to the full base .
Corn Gluten Meal Application
Unless at least ¼ inch of rainwater falls short after software , it is crucial to thoroughly water the area where CGM has been spread . Water spreads the intersection out to produce a layer at the soil open . Any source , including grass seminal fluid , that germinate near this layer will be affected . After the initial rain or lacrimation , it ’s idealistic if the orbit remains dry for several days , since excess moisture will reduce CGM ’s herbicidal tone . If the ironic conditions persist , CGM can rest in effect for up to six week due to its in high spirits protein content and slow - dismissal nature . Repeat applications are helpful and can have a accumulative effect . ordered , even coverage is important ; small gaps in reportage tolerate place for gage to germinate and survive . I have found that applying a 3- to 4 - in layer of constituent mulch on top of the CGM acquired immune deficiency syndrome in its overall effectiveness .
Tip: Beware of imposters
maize gluten repast is not the same as Indian corn repast . Corn repast , like many of the moonlighting product that are sold as CGM , has a high nitrogen subject and will act as a fertiliser , stimulating mourning band growth . Be sure to check that the mathematical product you corrupt is labeled as a pre - emerging herbicide . Genuine CGM is typically sell in gunpowder and granulated manikin . Both forms are equally effective , but I find that the grain form is much well-situated to utilise .
— Adam Glas is a garden supervisory program and rosarian at the Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College in Swarthmore , Pennsylvania .
Photos : Adam Glas
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Corn gluten meal is a by-product of food processing and a worthwhile addition to your organic tool kit.
Apply corn gluten meal just before the emergence of annual weeds like common chickweed (left) and hairy bittercress (right).
Applying CGM to the ring of mulch around a tree or shrub is an easy way to prevent crabgrass or other annual weeds from getting a foothold.
Watering the area of application spreads CGM across the surface of the soil, where it can deter the growth of weeds for up to six weeks.
