High Altitude Nature and Gardening (HANG) – Enjoying nature in summer, high altitude landscaping, and weed control

By Janet Sellers

“We often forget that we are nature. Nature is not something separate from us. So when we say that we have lost our connection to nature, we’ve lost our connection to ourselves.”—Andy Goldsworthy

With recent much-needed rains, many landscapes—especially at our high altitudes—are flourishing, along with an abundance of weedy grasses. Controlling these grasses is crucial for fire safety and reducing pests like ticks and fleas. Fortunately, safe, natural, and inexpensive methods are available that protect families, pets, and local wildlife. Mowing and weed control are essential steps.

One effective approach is biodynamic gardening, which is gaining popularity for its simplicity and productivity. Rooted in traditional practices, biodynamic farming views the garden as a self-sustaining organism, integrating soil, plants, animals, and humans. European vineyards using biodynamics—just 1% of farmland—win 60% of wine prizes, showing the method’s impact.

Biodynamic methods avoid synthetic chemicals, relying instead on composting, mulching, and natural preparations made from herbs and minerals. These practices build long-term soil fertility, reduce effort over time, and support a thriving ecosystem. They also align with natural growth and decay cycles, creating a closed-loop system that boosts plant health naturally.

In contrast, synthetic herbicides like glyphosate, though widely used, pose serious risks. Glyphosate harms soil microbes, reduces beneficial fungi and bacteria, and contributes to herbicide-resistant weeds. The World Health Organization’s IARC classifies it as “probably carcinogenic to humans” raising concerns especially for children and pets exposed via skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion.

Instead, gardeners can turn to natural weed control methods like vinegar and mulch. White vinegar, particularly with 10-20% acetic acid, acts as a desiccant, breaking down plant cell membranes and effectively killing many broadleaf weeds—especially in hot, dry weather. Adding dish soap helps the solution adhere to leaves for better results. While household vinegar (5% acetic acid) is less potent, it can still work with repeated applications. However, like chemical herbicides, vinegar is non-selective and must be applied carefully to avoid damaging desirable plants.

Washington State University’s Linda Chalker-Scott confirms vinegar’s effectiveness as a natural herbicide, supporting its use as an eco-friendly alternative. These methods help reduce environmental impact and safeguard health.

Mulch, however, remains one of the most effective and long-lasting weed control methods. It blocks sunlight, conserves moisture, and suppresses weed germination. Another lesser-known method is steam weeding, which uses intense heat to kill weed cells. This is especially effective in larger areas like parks, playgrounds, and organic farms, and even small-scale steamers like carpet cleaners can be useful for home gardeners.

For a relaxing, low-effort summer garden, integrated natural methods—such as mowing, mulching, vinegar application, and biodynamic principles—offer a safe, sustainable way to control weeds and reconnect with nature.

Janet Sellers is an avid lazy gardener who follows nature’s lead. Contact her at JanetSellers@ocn.me.

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