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You should add 1 to 4 inches of mulch, depending on your garden type and needs. Keep in mind that no amount of mulch can completely prevent weeds, but a heavier coverage (closer to 4 inches) can suppress weeds enough that you are only seeing them sprout every few weeks. Finer mulch prevents weeds more effectively than large mulch, so if you’re using mulched leaves or shredded bark, 1 to 2 inches will likely suffice, while 3 to 4 inches is best for larger mulch, like bark chips or straw.

Johnsongrass and crabgrass are invasive weeds that can overtake your lawn. Crabgrass is a low-growing grass most often seen in lawns, flower beds, and vegetable gardens. While you may find Johnsongrass growing in your lawn, it will also grow in pastures, crop fields, and the edge of the road. Johnsongrass is much coarser than crabgrass. If left alone, Johnsongrass can grow up to 8 feet tall. 

Whether a one-time spray treatment to control mosquitoes is enough depends on multiple factors. Often, you’ll notice a big difference after one application. However, mosquitoes are likely to return if you don't reduce attractive standing water habitats. This usually takes four to eight weeks if it’s still prime mosquito season.

Crabgrass is very resilient, and homemade solutions like vinegar may not be strong enough. Typically, hand-weeding is the most effective option that doesn’t involve harmful chemicals. You can use corn-meal gluten as a natural pre-emergent herbicide, but it’s not as effective as chemical weed killers.