With spring fully underway, gardens are bursting back to life. However, flowering plants and vegetables aren't the only things thriving in the warmer weather; weeds also begin to emerge from March onward. Weeding might not be everyone's favourite gardening chore, but it's essential to stay on top of it through spring and summer as weeds appear on lawns, patios, and driveways.
While garden centres offer various chemical solutions promising quick results, you don't need to rely on expensive products. Natural alternatives are not only cheaper but also effective. In fact, five experts were asked how to remove driveway weeds this spring and summer, and they all named the same solution.
The Natural Weed Killer Method
Luke Newnes, garden expert at Hillarys, recommends starting with a thorough clear-out. "Pull out any weeds that have already pushed through, getting the whole root if possible, especially with dandelions and plantain, because anything left behind tends to grow back stronger. A simple weeding tool or an old screwdriver works wonders for getting between block paving."
He then suggests using a natural weed killer you likely already own: a mix of white vinegar, a little washing-up liquid, and water. "Spray it directly onto weeds on a dry, sunny day. The sun helps it work faster, and you'll usually see them wilt within hours. It's a simple, non-chemical option that's great for quick wins."
Andy McLaughlin, sales and operations director at RF Paving, echoes this method. After pulling out as much of the weed as possible, treat the area with either vinegar, boiling water, or salt. "Mixing vinegar with an acetic acid content between 5% and 20% with some washing-up liquid helps the liquid adhere to the roots for more effective results. Simply spritz directly onto the weeds, making sure not to get any solution on nearby plants, as the vinegar could cause them to deteriorate. For best results, repeat every two weeks until the weeds are gone."
If you don't have vinegar, boiling water works too. Pour it directly onto the weeds, using gloves and protective gear if needed. However, boiling water may not kill the root, so weeds could regrow. For tougher weeds, add salt: dilute one part table salt with two to three parts water. The salt dehydrates the weeds, causing them to wilt and die. Be cautious with salt, as frequent use on natural stone can weaken the paving, cause discolouration, and even erosion.
Expert Tips for Best Results
Jessica Mercer, horticulturist at Plant Addicts, advises pulling small, scattered weeds after rain or hosing the area, as roots slide out more easily. For tiny weeds in cracks, boiling water works well. "Pour slowly so it soaks the base, and plan to repeat on anything with a deep taproot. Vinegar can help on weed seedlings, but concentrated vinegars can be pricey and require eye protection. Do not spray vinegar near garden plants, as it can damage leafy growth."
Ward Dilmore, founder and head landscape designer at Petrus Landscaping, highlights that vinegar is a great natural weed killer: cheap, widely available, non-toxic, and safe to handle. "Vinegar and other natural weed killers work best when the weather is hot and sunny. Cold weather is less stressful on plants and can help weeds survive a dose of natural weed killer. Vinegar and salt water mixes are also available online, but avoid using salt near other plants since it is toxic and lingers in soil. Boiling water is another easy option, applied with caution."
Liam Sharkey, home expert at HomeServe, recommends boiling water as a quick fix: "It kills weeds on contact, is free, easy, and safe around pets and children. White vinegar at cleaning strength is another good option, especially on a sunny day."
Preventing Weeds from Returning
Luke Newnes emphasises prevention: "A regular sweep keeps seeds, debris, and moisture from settling. Weeds love compacted dirt and damp joints, so keeping the surface clear gives them fewer places to anchor. For block paving, topping up kiln-dried sand between the bricks makes a huge difference. Weeds hate tight spaces, and fresh sand blocks the light that encourages new growth. It's one of the simplest ways to prevent weeds long term."
