Safer methods of herbicide application are needed for irregular planting areas. The herbicide 2,6-dichlorobenzonitrile (dichlobenil) was incorporated into various organic mulches so that a specified depth of mulch delivered the desired concentration of herbicide. The incorporation technique provided equal or better weed control than either the dichlobenil or mulch used alone. In addition, prolonged effect of the dichlobenil was realized into the second year when it was incorporated into the mulch. Increasing the mulch depth to 4 inches increased the weed control. A nutrient supplemented mulch in conjunction with the dichlobenil increased the growth of many woody ornamental plants as much as 300 to 400%.