Weeds can easily take hold in the slabs between patio slabs and gaps in gravel, but a simple three-ingredient spray can kill them with no need for harsh chemicals
Between the cracks of patio slabs and gaps in gravel driveways, rainwater can easily gather, creating a perfect, damp breeding ground for pesky weeds. Plenty of sunshine in open garden spaces further supports this unwanted vegetation’s growth spree.
But before you dash off to grab some harmful weed killer from your local shop, green-fingered pros online suggest a kitchen cupboard solution that might just be the trick. Tomato Dave, a hit on TikTok for his savvy gardening tips, advised his followers to ditch the toxic stuff and concoct their own from three simple ingredients.
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“I tried this natural remedy,” he exclaimed, clearly impressed by the results. “I was blown away by how well it worked after only three hours.” He added: “It did better than any other commercial weed killer I’ve tried.
“After three weeks, they still haven’t grown back.” It may seem too easy, but the science behind the homemade mixture doesn’t lie, reports the Express.
Ordinary vinegar is laced with acetic acid – a killer of weeds through cell destruction leading to rapid dehydration. And the more acetic acid present, the more whopping the effect on those stubborn garden invaders.
Meanwhile, salt acts as a desiccant – sapping moisture from weeds on application either directly or when mixed into the soil, not only knocking them out but also putting off their return.
Yet, it’s important to note that too much salt can wreak havoc on nearby plants and reduce soil fertility, so go easy on the sprinkling.
The role of dish soap in this concoction is to act as a glue, ensuring the vinegar and salt stick together.
Gardening guru Tomato Dave points out that the soap’s dense consistency allows the mixture to “adhere to the leaves”, boosting its weed-killing power.