Weeds are among the biggest problems in gardens, and they can reappear before you know it. The unwanted plants quickly appear between patio slabs and paving.
I usually pull weeds by hand, but it can be a tiresome job. This year, weeds seem to have sprouted more than ever on my paved areas in the garden.
I am not a fan of chemical weed killers, as I have plenty of plants and nature in my garden that I don’t want harmed. After seeing a hack online that three common household items can kill weeds, I decided to give it a go myself.
I was sceptical about how well a natural homemade weed killer would really work, especially as I have plenty of weeds to get rid of. But I was taken aback by the results.
5View 5 ImagesSpray the solution onto the leaves of the weeds(Image: Mia O’Hare)
5View 5 ImagesI left the solution for 24 hours(Image: Mia O’Hare)
In a spray bottle, I mixed white vinegar, salt, and washing-up liquid. I had all the items in my kitchen cupboard and had just finished a spray bottle, so I didn’t need to spend a penny to make my weed killer.
I headed outside and decided to test different parts of the patio. I made sure to give the weeds a good spray and left them alone until the next day.
When I returned to assess the results, I was stunned to find the weeds had shrivelled and died. I was then able to remove the weeds much more easily than if they were still alive.
The homemade weed killer was impressive, as it really doesn’t cost much to make and cuts out any harsh chemicals. I already plan to make more once my bottle has run out.
Ensure you use the mixture on a sunny day so that rain won’t wash it away. Blogger Moral Fibres also recommends it shouldn’t be used on weeds in soil, as it can make the area acidic, so it’s best for patio areas.
5View 5 ImagesFor bigger weeds, you can pour it directly onto them(Image: Mia O’Hare)
5View 5 ImagesThe results impressed me(Image: Mia O’Hare)
Ingredients
- 500ml white vinegar, I got a litre from Sainsbury’s for 45p
- Two tbsp salt, 75p for a 750g bottle at Sainsbury’s
- Two tsp washing-up liquid, 62p for a 500ml bottle at Asda
- Spray bottle
Method
Either in the spray bottle or a jug, pour in the white vinegar and salt. Stir until dissolved.
Add the washing-up liquid and stir well. If using a jug, pour the mixture into the spray bottle.
Remove any insects from the weed. Spray the mixture directly onto the weed’s leaves, giving it a good soak.
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If you have large weeds, you can pour some of the mixture onto the plant and spray the leaves.
The weeds will begin to wilt within a few hours. I left mine for 24 hours, and they had fully died back.