How to keep boundary area clean and tidy?

[Colossian]

Hello agian, What's a good low-cost solution to prevent the weeds from growing, while also making the area look clean? Why is there a gap of soil between the wall and the neighbor's timber?

Thank you

 

  

[JacobZ]

Hi @Colossian,

Thank you for your question about controlling weeds on your property's boundary.

I think a combination of a few things is the way to go.

As there don't appear to be any plants you are looking to keep, you could start by using a non-selective herbicide such as Slasher to kill the grass and weeds that are currently growing. Make sure you follow the manufacturer's instructions closely to ensure the best results and wear gloves and a mask when applying herbicides.

Once the grass and weeds have been removed, you can put down Geotextile Drainage Membrane and cover it in decorative stones. The geotextile membrane and stones will suppress any further weeds or grasses that are looking to grow and give the area a simple to manage, aesthetically pleasing look.

Alternatively, you could remove the weeds using the same method, wait for two weeks to allow the herbicide to dissipate and fill the area with ground cover plants such as mondo grass, ajuga reptens or creeping boobialla.

Allow me to tag @Noelle, @mich1972 and @Dave-1 to see if they have other ideas.

I can't say I'm sure of the reason for the gap. Some councils require retaining walls to be setback from the boundary line to prevent structural impact on neighbouring properties. This could be the reason for the gap, but it is hard to say for sure.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[Dave-1]

Good Evening @Colossian 

My ideas follow @JacobZ's in regards to using a weed suppressing mat and cover with gravel. The gravel will help stop weeds and allow water to still move through it. I would make the gravel at least 8cms deeps to really help the weeds not come through. This means that you may need to remove a little soil from the top of the fence.

For the issue with the difference in height with your boundary area I would have a chat with your neighbour and see what they feel about it. A problem shared is a lot easier to deal with then you trying to mitigate a problem yourself.

Dave