Weeds can be a real pain for gardeners, especially when they are growing in between patio cracks, but one green-fingered enthusiast has shared their ‘amazing’ hack to kill them
Weeds are notorious for their ability to flourish in any spot within your garden, and they seem to thrive under almost all weather conditions. Gardeners have observed a surge in these unwelcome plants following periods of plentiful sunshine coupled with substantial rainfall – a pattern the UK has recently witnessed.
One green-fingered enthusiast questioned whether boiling water could be an effective alternative to white vinegar, salt, or harmful chemicals for eradicating weeds from patio crevices. On the Gardening UK Facebook group, Rachel Roberts enquired: “To those of you who use boiling water to kill the weeds growing in the patio, how often and for how long do you do it to see a difference?”
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Fellow group members responded in the comments, suggesting that boiling water can yield swift results when tackling weeds, reports the Express.
Helen Brooks shared her experience: “I have found it depends on the weed – most of my patio weeds reacted pretty quickly. I use boiling water on my driveway.”
Rachelle Breakspear recounted: “Poured hot water on the weeds and next day they were burnt to a crisp, then I pulled them out and not seen any since.”
Sandra Lovett advised: “As soon as you notice the weeds put boiling water on it. I go round every week with the kettle my drives weed-free.”
Annie Searle offered her routine: “I check on mine once a week. Each time they regrow the weeds seem to be weaker and take longer to come back.”
John Gardner directed keen gardeners with a tip: “When you see green shoots. Do a weekly ‘patrol’ during the growing season. They’ll die the same day and shrivelled to nothing in a couple more days if you use this. It’s an amazing water method.”
Gardening enthusiast Jazz Bah was quick to share her positive experience, stating: “I saw a notable difference the next day. I did mine about a month ago and have not done it since. Dog friendly and I’m not averse to weeds as such, just not on my path.”
Albeit the efficacy of boiling water on weeds, caution is advised due to its potential to harm desirable plants. Utilising a tea kettle with a precise spout and an insulated handle is recommended for this weed management technique.
The design of the spout ensures targeted application of the boiling water on undesirable plants, as the kettle cleverly maintains the water temperature. Care should be taken to pour judiciously to avoid collateral damage to adjacent lawn or ornamental flora.
For those pursuing even superior results, horticulturists may opt to trim back most of the unwanted vegetation before applying the scalding treatment directly to the roots within their gardens.