Long-Handled Tools

• Hoes are a good example of a long-handled tool.Hemera Technologies/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Long-handle tools are used from a standing position; they uproot or slice through weeds. They often have wide heads and are best suited for large areas where the plants are spaced far apart and the weeds are more shallow. With the added benefit of being easy on the back and knees, they are a favorite of many gardeners.
  
  

Short-Handled Tools

• Short-handled tools allow you to get in between closely spaced plants.Jupiterimages/Creatas/Getty Images
  
  Short-handle tools require the gardener to be face-to-face with the weed. Because you are on your knees, these tools become an extension of your hand. They often have small, finger-like blades designed to grab the root at its base. You can use more force since you are closer to the ground. Short-handled tools are ideal for full gardens and stubborn weeds with deep roots.
  
  

Chemical Attack

• Herbicides may damage surrounding vegetation.Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
  
  Herbicides should be a last resort for weed control. However, mechanical and cultural (i.e. mulching) methods don't always do the trick. Choose the preferred herbicide based on when you apply and how it will affect the surrounding vegetation. Make sure it will kill your weed. Not every herbicide will kill every weed.
  
  

Prevention is Key

• Mulch blocks light and water from reaching weed seeds.Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
  
  Preventing weeds from getting started is the easiest method of control. Make sure your garden seeds, compost and mulch are free from weed seeds or plants. If you use irrigation water to hydrate, make sure you have adequate filtration on your system to prevent weeds.
  
  A thick layer of mulch around your plants blocks light from reaching weed seeds. thus preventing the seeds from germinating. Mulch may be an organic material such as bark, or a synthetic material such as black plastic.