Weed Killer for Vegetable Gardens: Preen and the Chemical Dilemma

A grandfather uses Roundup pre-till, but weeds return. The answer recommends Preen (trifluralin)—a synthetic pre-emergent herbicide—not organic. It prevents seed germination but doesn't kill existing weeds. Apply after planting, following label rates.

Caveat: Preen is not organic. For chemical-free gardens, use corn gluten meal (organic pre-emergent), deep mulch, flame weeding, or vinegar spot treatments. Healthy, dense plantings naturally suppress weeds.