I'm gradually dealing with a weedy plot. I've been trying to use as little spraying as possible. BUT...
I've just discovered that quite a large area was covered with carpet at some stage and I'm having the devil's own job getting rid of it - especially where bracken took root
So another vote against carpet here too. IIRC, it's not allowed on our allotments any more either, but the plot's only just been taken back and sub-divided following the previous tenant giving it up. I suspect it's been there a long time.
I also decided that if I'm to make any progress getting the place cleared by the end of the month (inspection deadline) it needed a good dose of glyphosate. Did that 2 days ago and, as it hasn't rained since, I'm hopeful I can get most of it cleared. If nothing else, I can cover some of it with cardboard etc.