Vinegar will be ‘more effective’ at removing gravel weeds if paired with 2 household items

Weeds can be a real nuisance, especially when they’re lodged in the cracks of patios or nestled within gravel surfaces. Their robust root systems make it easy for them to penetrate these areas and thrive.

Over time, dust, dirt and debris can accumulate within the gaps of gravel surfaces, providing enough nutrients for persistent weeds like grasses and dandelions to flourish. 

But fear not, Paul Nicolaides, who boasts over 30 years of recreational gardening and 20 years of professional landscaping experience, has shared his top tips for getting rid of them.

The “most effective” way to remove weeds from gravel is by hand using a trowel, according to Paul. However, this method can be quite laborious and time-consuming.

Instead, he suggests using white vinegar, but not on its own. He recommends pairing it with two other items you’re likely to have in your kitchen.

He said: “Although vinegar can kill weeds using the correct application it is more effective mixed with salt. Mix your vinegar with a generous amount of salt and washing up liquid.”

Rock salt can be “very effective” at removing weeds from gravel as it “slowly dehydrates moisture from the weeds, roots and foliage, eventually killing them”. Make sure you stir the solution well so the salt becomes fully dissolved.

Then add the homemade weed killer to a spray bottle and spray your weeds.

Rock salt could be the unexpected ally for gardeners battling weeds, providing a slow-release solution that gradually takes effect after rainfall.

According to gardening experts, it’s best done on a dry day to avoid rain washing it away too soon.

Yet, persistence is key with this eco-friendly weed-killer repeated application being its major drawback.

But for those pesky smaller invaders, a simpler method exists, as boiling water straight from the kettle may just do the trick.

Gardening expert Paul said: “Pouring boiling water onto weeds is most effective in gravel as it’s easier for water to percolate to the roots.”

He added: “As gravel is free draining the boiling water can strike to the very core of the weed.

“For small, less established weeds, however, a good dosage of boiling water should be enough to kill.”