As we continue through July, the peak of the summer gardening season brings not only blooming flowers and fresh produce but also an unwelcome guest, persistent weeds. These invaders compete with your prized plants for space, nutrients, water, and sunlight, making it essential to address them early and effectively. Rather than relying on harsh chemical herbicides, gardeners are encouraged to try a natural and affordable solution found right in their kitchen, vinegar.
According to the Swedish home and garden products website, by Benson, a homemade weed killer made from vinegar, salt, and dishwashing soap is an essential tool to help your garden “say goodbye to weeds”. The acetic acid in vinegar acts as a natural desiccant, drying out and damaging the leaves of unwanted weeds.
Adding a small amount of salt helps increase the potency while a few drops of dish soap ensure the mixture clings tightly to the leaves for maximum effect.
To make your own weed spray, combine 1 gallon of white vinegar, 1 cup of salt, and 1 tablespoon of dishwashing soap.
Mix these ingredients in a spray bottle and then apply the mixture directly onto the leaves of weeds on a dry, sunny day for best results.
However, avoid using too much salt as excessive salt can make the soil less hospitable not only for weeds but also for your desired plants.
While this DIY solution is effective for managing weeds in driveways, paths, and between patio slabs, it’s best used with caution in garden beds.
Vinegar based sprays are non-selective, meaning they can damage any plant they come into contact with, not just the weeds.
Gardeners should also remember that this mixture works best on young, annual weeds rather than deep rooted perennials, which may require repeated applications or alternative methods.
Still, for those looking to reduce their reliance on chemical herbicides, this natural approach offers a simple, eco-friendly way to reclaim control of garden spaces.