Should I pull the weeds, or spray them. (Ivy, trees, leaves)

[Mattie]

Our planting beds are all on slopes, and some of them are pretty steep. I've been pulling weeds all morning, and I realize that along with the weeds, I'm removing a lot of top soil. Erosion is an issue because of the slopes. Would I be better off spraying to kill them off before pulling them?

I'm not usually a fan of spraying, but I'm thinking it might be the best under these circumstances?

[Hemlock140]

Like you, I prefer not to spray when possible, but in this case it does make sense. If you prefer not to use Roundup or the like, which you have to do on a windless day and be careful not to get it on desirable plants/trees, there is a more earth-friendly alternative. Go to Costco or similar and buy a couple of gallons of white vinegar. Use it full-strength in the sprayer, and soak the weeds with it early on a sunny day when it will be warm, 70 or above. When finished, you may be tempted to go eat some pickles, but the vinegar will kill them and you will see the results by the end of the day on broadleaf weeds.

[luv4horses]

Round-up is also earth friendly. It will not harm the 'earth' or any of the soil micro-organisms. I use Round-up for exactly the same reason the OP is contemplating, to kill the weeds without disturbing the soil. Just because Round-up (glyphosate) is a chemical does not mean it is bad. Don't belief the hype by the fearmongers (or the unfortunately misinformed).

[need4speed2012]

Dig them out with the roots.

[gentlearts]

I would spray first, to get it under control, then I would pull the new ones as they appear.

[NYChistorygal]

I use a round-up type product for poison ivy and weeds and just spray the leaves. within 3 days the plant is dead without disturbing anything around it or soaking the soil.