Alternatives to the Green Weed Wacker

Better Machines on the Market

• Using a mechanical device like a gasoline-powered weed whacker is indispensable in certain landscaping jobs like trimming tall grass around tombstones or cutting back green plants that pop up through asphalt and concrete. The weed whacker does the job quickly with minimum effort, making the tool useful where grass-cutting in specialized places is needed. Instead of resorting to a hand-powered means of removal, buy a propane model. This option may cost a little more, but avoids the fuel and carburetor problems that can plague green weed whackers.

Long-handled Weeders and Hand Clippers

• Obtain a medium-length wooden handle push-pull weeder and some hand clippers and go after the weeds without investing so much time and money in an internal-combustion weeding device. The long-handled weeder can be swung from a standing position much like the green weed whacker. Though these devices don't get into every little nick and corner like a green weed whacker, these tools can be used all day without breaking down or running out of gasoline. Other devices like hand-pushed edgers and basic hoes can also be deployed in this regard.

Hand Gloves

• One of cheapest ways to get of unwanted green plants is to simply don a pair of worn overalls and slip on a pair of work gloves. Then stoop or sit down and go after the weeds by hand. Pull up the undesirables with their root section intact. Special hand tools like a small trowel or soil knife can aid in the total removal of annoying plants.

Organic Weed Treatments

• Another option consists of applying organic products to your lawn to reduce weeds or at least keeping the pestilent plants from germinating. The Toronto Health Connection recommends applying corn gluten to your lawn in the early spring. The natural substance won't kill existing weeds, but can prevent seeds from germinating. The corn product can also be applied to cracks in stone and pavement, where young shoots might appear. Household vinegar can also kill germinating plants. Organic weed-killing treatments are also available.