The dream of having a weed-free, healthy garden without depending on chemical pesticides is a common aspiration of gardeners everywhere. An effective, non-synthetic solution is cornmeal gluten or corn gluten meal (CGM). Corn processing is left with this as a leftover, potent organic pre-emergent weedkiller that prevents germination of most weeds found in gardens. The following are some steps on how to use cornmeal gluten to your advantage to repel weeds while your garden remains healthy and in good condition.
What is Cornmeal Gluten?
Cornmeal gluten is a dusty byproduct of milling corn. It was first found as a possible weed killer by researching turfgrass at Iowa State University. The organic compound has approximately 10% nitrogen, which is also a light fertilizer for lawns and gardens. Unlike post-emergent herbicides, which destroy the current weeds, CGM prevents new weeds from germinating by preventing root growth in the seedling phase
How Does Cornmeal Gluten Function?
Cornmeal gluten is also a pre-emergent weed killer as it keeps sprouting seeds from developing their root system. It will form a barrier that will stop weeds from growing if used in time. It does not kill established plants or germinated weed seeds that have developed a root system. It is very important when applying CGM to make sure that it will affect weed seeds before they germinate.
When to Use Cornmeal Gluten
To get the best results, use gluten twice a year:
Spring Application: Apply in early spring when soil temperature is about 55°F (13°C), usually when weed seeds are mature. This will kill crabgrass, dandelions, and other annual weeds before they can germinate.
Fall Application: A late-summer or early-fall application can prevent winter annual weeds such as chickweed and henbit.
How to Use Cornmeal Gluten
Site Preparation: Weed out existing weeds or use an organic post-emergent herbicide since CGM will not be able to destroy existing weeds.
Application of the Cornmeal Gluten: Broadcast cornmeal gluten at 20 pounds per 1,000 square feet uniformly. Utilize a broadcast spreader for large spaces or apply manually for small garden beds.
Water the Area: Water the treated area lightly to stimulate the herbicidal action of CGM. But not too much, because this will wash away the gluten and make it ineffective.
Avoid Disturbance: Rake or till the soil after application of CGM should be avoided, as this will disrupt the barrier formed by it.
Reapply as Needed: Reapply as a part of your regular weed control program to ensure effectiveness
Considerations In Using Cornmeal Gluten
It Affects Any Seeds:
CGM does not discriminate between weed seeds and plant seeds you want to grow. If seeding new crops, at least four to six weeks should pass before applying CGM.
It Gives Nitrogen: Since it contains nitrogen, CGM is also a slow-release fertilizer, which energizes existing crops and lawns.
It Takes Time to Show Results: Cornmeal gluten doesn't work immediately. It may take a number of applications over a few seasons to see significant weed reduction.
Conclusion
Cornmeal gluten is a natural gardener's best friend when it comes to weed management without the use of man-made chemicals. Used correctly at the perfect moment, cornmeal gluten suppresses weed germination effortlessly while feeding your soil with a gentle rush of nitrogen. Simply patience and determination are needed to make cornmeal gluten an invaluable part of your green and natural gardening routine, and you'll have a beautiful, healthy landscape weed-free naturally.