Gardeners looking for a natural way to eliminate patio weeds are being advised to use boiling water rather than salt or vinegar, as it destroys the entire plant including the roots.
Why Boiling Water Works Better
Simon Akeroyd, a gardener who has authored over 30 gardening books, said that boiling water from a kettle can dispatch weeds rapidly. He explained: "Boiling water is a solution! Use it to destroy weeds growing up through the cracks in your patio."
According to Akeroyd, many of the vinegars and other liquids suggested on social media do not get to the root of the problem. He said: "They might destroy the leaves but usually the root below survives and sends up new shoots."
Vinegar and salt can destroy weed foliage, but they frequently fail to penetrate the plant's root, meaning it will inevitably regrow unless it is a young, far more susceptible weed. Boiling water, however, uses intense heat to shock the entire plant, killing it off completely, roots included, significantly reducing the likelihood of regrowth.
How to Use Boiling Water Safely
All that is required is to fill a kettle to the brim, boil it, and then take it outside to the garden. However, the primary concern when using boiling water is the potential risk of burns.
Before boiling the water, clear a pathway from the kitchen to the garden. Then, proceed carefully and pour at arm's length to prevent any water from splashing onto you. It is equally crucial to pour gradually to avoid any splash back onto nearby plants or grass, as the boiling water will damage any plant it touches.
Expected Results
Within a few hours, the weed should begin turning brown and withering. With any luck, it kills the weed on the first attempt, but depending on how deep the weed roots extend, you may need to repeat the process a second or third time. Nevertheless, this is such a straightforward and efficient method that having to do it multiple times should not prove troublesome, and should thoroughly clean your patio so you can begin autumn without worrying about weeding.
