If gravel has been down some time weeds start to take root and can be problematic. But an expert has given his inexpensive hack to get rid of them
The spread of weeds in autumn can be a nightmare for gardeners – especially those who have a gravel driveway or patio.
Exposure to the elements is the reason they start to sprout through gravel in your garden. If the gravel has just been laid they don’t have anywhere to grow, it can, however, accumulate sediment and weeds have place to take root. They can be tough to get rid off if they are emerging from gravel. And they thrive in ground without soil and moisture. It means they can take over and grow swiftly with no plants to take their space.
The Express reports weeds can also establish themselves in any nook and cranny. This means that even if you remove the visible part of the weed, it can easily regrow swiftly as the root system will still be intact. Gravel weeds can be removed with white vinegar or boiling water, Bit gardening experts at George Davis Turf on Instagram have shared another kitchen item they say works the “quickest”.
They said: “Here’s the quickest way for removing those pesky weeds. Mix rock salt with water and spray over your gravel.” Rock salt is one of the best methods to destroy gravel weeds if you’re seeking a long-lasting natural solution. When salt is absorbed by plant root systems, it disrupts the water balance and causes the weed to eventually wilt and die.
The professionals gave the method which they claim will get rid of weeds growing in gravel. They said: “Dissolve rock salt in water and use a spray bottle to apply it over the travelled area. “This method helps cover larger areas and ensures the salt penetrates the soil to dehydrate the weeds.” The Mirror reported a similar 65p hack which also worked on patios.
There is no need for expensive sprays and manual labour instead use salt. You simply mix together one part salt to two parts water and pour the solution over gaps in your patio slabs – making sure to cover any areas that currently have weeds growing through. Leave over night and you should find the weeds will simply pop out, and not bother coming back. Harry Bodell, a gardening expert at PriceYourJob, has hailed the online trick saying: “[It]works by ultimately dehydrating weeds.
“Salt interferes with the weed’s ability to absorb essential nutrients such as potassium, magnesium and calcium. The disruption in nutrient uptake weakens the plant’s overall health, causing it to dry out from dehydration and die.” According to Woman and Home, salt will also prevent future weeds from growing. Harry added: “There are certain ions present in salt which can be toxic to plants when accumulated in high concentrations, it interferes with natural processes such as photosynthesis, leading to cell damage and dehydration of the plant.”
