1.	Mulch: Natural mulches discourage weeds and return badly needed organic matter to the soil. Mulch layers need to be replenished as they break down or they will provide a great environment for a new crop of weeds. The effectiveness of mulch is enhanced by placing layers of old newspaper or cardboard underneath the mulch to further inhibit the growth of weeds. The cellulose adds additional organic matter to the soil as the paper decomposes.
2.	Plant unused areas to attract beneficial insects: Insectary areas will compete with weeds. As an added bonus, they will provide screening and habitat for beneficial insects and other wildlife. Nurseries and mail order companies offer special insectary seed mixes.
3.	Plant cover crops: In large weedy areas a cover crop may compete with the weedy species. Insectary type plants, ornamental grasses, and/or a selected seed mix will occupy space where weeds once grew, and will increase the garden's biodiversity. Cover crops can be managed with the proper equipment with very little effort.
4.	Mechanical weed control is, in many areas, a viable alternative to the use of herbicides.
5.	Improve the health of turf to out-compete weeds: Weeds in turf are usually an indication of poor cultural practices. With improved irrigation systems and practices (which could include a fertigation system), improved maintenance and cultural practices (which could include recycler mowers and the use of organic fertilizers), turf grass will out-compete most weeds. Corn gluten meal provides some nitrogen and can be used as a pre-emergent herbicide to inhibit weed seed (and other seeds) germination.
6.	Other mechanical tools: Technology is offering additional alternatives such as flaming, a method using special apparatus to kill weeds by heat. There is also a machine that uses superheated steam to kill weeds.