Hi Everyone:
Just wanted to give you an update. I used ALL of the advice you gave me. On Labor Day my husband and I pulled out 4 large garbage cans worth of thistle and various other weeds. However, the night before we ran the sprinkler for 8 hours as suggested. WHAT A DIFFERENCE THAT MADE! The weeds came out so much easier. I then put a layer of Preen down especially in the areas that were wide open. I had killed a number of hybrid daylilies earlier in the year by trying to "Round Up" the weeds. Never again. We then got free mulch from the city. I realize that can be bad because of the weed seeds etc but we can't afford to buy the mulch. However, I also put a layer of Preen (thicker than the container shows) on the mulch and watered it in well.
I also used the cardboard suggestion and cut out strips to line the entire huge area to keep the grass down and also put it on some of the more bare areas to try to keep the weeds out.
It was a LONG day but we got it done! We then cracked open a beer each and sat in the hot tub for about an hour!
A few of the things I learned. MULCH. At least every other year. I am also going to divide the plants in the spring. The ones on the left side really need it. I have noticed a real decline in the number of blossoms. Photo is after we weeded, before the 4" of mulch was spread out.
KEEP UP WITH IT. Every week go out with my thick gloves on and try to keep those darn thistles at bay. It will take me 10-15 minutes and I can use the exercise.
THANKS SO MUCH FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART, FOR ALL OF YOUR GREAT SUGGESTIONS!
Ann