This story was originally published in June 2020. Weeding is one of the most annoying parts of gardening, but it is necessary if you want a productive harvest. Home gardeners and professionals alike are always looking for new solutions for weeding woes, from mixing it up with mulches to taking a flamethrower to the pesky plants. One preventative strategy could rid you of your weed issues forever, as long as you employ a bit of advanced planning. Sonja Birthisel, postdoctoral research Associate at the University of Maine, has conducted research on weeding strategies that involve covering plots before planting with reusable plastic tarps for about a week.