Which of the following is NOT a method of mechanical weed control?

Mechanical weed control encompasses methods that physically remove or incapacitate weeds without the use of chemical herbicides. Hand pulling is a straightforward technique where individuals manually remove weeds from the soil, effectively disrupting their root systems. Raking can also serve to remove weeds, especially those with shallow roots or debris, and can help expose their roots for easier removal. Using mechanized equipment includes various machines that can till the soil or cut weeds, effectively managing larger areas of infestations.

On the other hand, using herbicides refers to chemical methods of weed control, which involve the application of various herbicides designed to kill or inhibit plant growth. This is distinct from mechanical methods as it relies on chemicals rather than physical removal or disruption. Thus, herbicides do not fall under mechanical weed control practices.